Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast

Young Australians are priced out — but the real story is far more empowering. They’re not stepping back from the market; they’re stepping in with strategy, curiosity, and better tools than ever. From rentvesting to financial education on TikTok, buyers today are finding new ways to enter the market on their own terms. Today’s first home buyers are strategic, curious, and using platforms like TikTok to learn about rentvesting, borrowing, and smart property decisions.In this episode, Meighan and Veronica chat with Ray White economists Nerida Conisbee and Atom Go Tian about their research into what first home buyers are actually doing. From trending TikTok finance topics to the rise of rentvesting and the impact of the 5% deposit scheme, the data shows buyers are taking action — not giving up.We break down why younger buyers trust social media over traditional media, how financial literacy is growing fast, and why many are choosing strategy over “dream homes.”Episode Highlights00:00 — Introduction: First Home Buyers Are Getting Smarter00:23 — Meet the Hosts and Their Mission01:04 —Debunking the Media Narrative01:39 — Strategies of Modern First Home Buyers02:27 — The Role of Social Media in Property Education03:32 — Rentvesting: A Popular Strategy04:23 — Challenges and Misconceptions07:19 — Engagement Patterns on TikTok09:46 — Financial Literacy and Social Media22:12 — The Importance of Location-Specific Research31:03 — Advice for First Home Buyers32:57 — Conclusion and Final ThoughtsCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Is your first home a good investment — or just a place to live? In this episode, Meighan and Veronica unpack the fundamentals of property investing that every first home buyer needs to understand, whether you’re buying to live in it or planning to rent-vest.You’ll learn why thinking like an investor from day one can set you up for long-term financial success — and why not all “investment properties” are created equal. The duo break down the difference between investment-grade properties and investor stock, and reveal the simple rule that could save you from buying a shiny new dud: If it’s easy to buy, it’s probably hard to sell.They also dig into the biggest wealth-building mistake first home buyers make — chasing yield instead of capital growth — and explain why land value matters more than the building on it. You’ll hear how local knowledge, scarcity, and buyer competition drive capital growth, and why “the fundamentals” look different in every suburb.If you’ve ever wondered how to tell a great investment from a risky one, or what truly drives long-term growth, this episode is your blueprint.Listen now and learn how to make your first home a smart investment — not just a purchase.Episode Highlights00:00 — Introduction to Property Investment01:16 — Understanding the PACE System03:29 — Investment Grade vs. Investment Stock06:24 — The Importance of Capital Growth09:16 — Land Value vs. Building Value14:26 — Red Flags in Property Investment16:21 — Key Factors for Assessing Property18:27 — Evaluating Homes and Local Traffic Challenges19:56 — Understanding Demographics and Socioeconomic Factors21:29 — Rentability and Property Potential23:49 — Supply and Scarcity in Real Estate25:42 — Affordability and Investment Fundamentals30:50 — The True Cost of Property Ownership32:37 — Final Thoughts and Advice for Home BuyersCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Most first home buyers start their journey by hunting for the lowest interest rate — but according to mortgage strategist Stuart Wemyss, that’s one of the biggest financial mistakes you can make. In this episode, Veronica and Meighan dive deep with Stuart to unpack the part of home buying almost no one understands properly: your borrowing strategy.Stuart explains why the way you structure your loan has far more long-term impact than shaving a few points off your rate. From borrowing capacity and offset accounts to tax effectiveness and refinancing, this conversation reveals how your first loan becomes the foundation for every property decision that follows.You’ll learn why the “cheapest” loan can actually cost you more later, how to preserve your flexibility for future moves, and why thinking ahead to your second and third property is just as important as buying your first. Stuart also breaks down common mistakes first home buyers make — like aggressively paying down their loan, getting stuck with the wrong lender, or failing to plan for life changes — and explains how to avoid them with a smart, forward-thinking strategy.If you want to buy well, borrow well, and set yourself up for what comes next, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction to Mortgage Strategy01:20 – Understanding Borrowing Strategy02:27 – Importance of Finance Strategy07:37 – Common Mistakes by First Home Buyers12:37 – Tax Implications and Offset Accounts14:40 – Rentvesting and Its Benefits19:41 – Tax-Free Property Sale Strategy20:23 – Choosing the Right Lender21:47 – The Importance of Refinancing25:43 – Navigating Online Lenders30:10 – The Role of Mortgage Brokers31:55 – Advice for First Home Buyers33:37 – Final Thoughts and Practical TipsMentionsEpisode 28: Substations, LMI, Rentvesting, Auctions & Strata Risks: First Home Buyer Q&ACourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

If you’ve been spending your nights scrolling realestate.com.au or Domain, convincing yourself it counts as research — this episode is your wake-up call.In this week’s episode, Veronica and Meighan reveal the truth about why endless scrolling isn't a strategy, and how to build a first home buying plan that actually works. You’ll learn how to move from chaos to clarity using their three key pillars — your goals, your finances, and your property plan — so you can stop ping-ponging between suburbs and start making real progress.They unpack why most first home buyers get the order wrong, the emotional traps that derail your search, and how a clear “why” behind your purchase will guide every decision you make. You’ll also hear real stories of buyers who wasted years in research mode until they built a strategy — and how one simple mindset shift helped them buy within six weeks.If you’re ready to stop reacting to listings and start leading your property journey with confidence, this episode is your blueprint for smarter, calmer, and more strategic buying.Listen now and learn how to build your first home strategy — the right way.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction and Misconceptions00:12 – The Importance of Strategy01:45 – Why Scrolling Isn't a Strategy03:04 – Common Pitfalls and Misconceptions05:38 – The Three Ps of Home Buying07:18 – The Importance of Knowing Your Why11:10 – Avoiding Common Mistakes13:29 – Filtering Information Overload14:07 – Financial Reality and Pre-Approval15:06 – Making Trade-Offs and Prioritizing16:31 – Case Study: Sarah's Journey19:00 – Building Your First Home Strategy23:44 – The Value of a Personalized Roadmap25:48 – Conclusion and Community InvitationCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

There’s a lot that goes into buying your first home, both practical and personal. You picture your furniture in the living room, your dog in the backyard, and before you know it, your heart’s saying yes while your gut is whispering no.In this episode, Meighan and Veronica unpack one of the hardest lessons in home buying: knowing when to walk away. They break down the difference between healthy compromise and costly mistakes, showing you how to spot the red flags that make a property wrong for you.They also explore the psychology behind buyer’s remorse, how intuition plays a role, and why walking away doesn’t mean starting over; it means getting smarter.If you’ve ever stood in a property wondering, “Am I being too picky?” — this episode will help you answer that question with confidence.Listen now and learn how to protect your goals, trust your gut, and say no to the wrong home, so you can say yes to the right one.Episode Highlights00:00 – Buying Smarter: Why Walking Away Can Be a Win04:04 – How Emotions Blind You to Property Red Flags06:50 – The Red Flags That Say: This Isn’t the One13:05 – Trust Your Gut — But Back It with Data16:54 – Real Buyers, Real Lessons: When ‘No’ Saved Them Thousands23:14 – How Saying No Leads to Your Perfect YesMentionsEpisode 252 - Are You Being Too Picky For Your Own Good?Course Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Property decisions often start with the data — suburb reports, growth charts, AI predictions. But while those numbers give you a useful baseline, they can’t tell you everything that matters.In this episode, Veronica and Meighan explore where big data helps… and where it doesn’t — and why those numbers don’t always paint the full picture when buying your first home. They look at where big data can guide you, where it can mislead you, and how local knowledge, context, and on-the-ground experience still play a crucial role in choosing the right property.They also talk about what gets lost when buyers depend too heavily on automated tools and averages — and why some of the most important details about a home or suburb never show up in the stats.By the end of this episode, you’ll understand how to gather the right kind of data — combining the big-picture insights with what you can only learn from being there yourself. It’s not about ignoring the numbers. It’s about knowing what they miss.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:09 – Why Blanket “Rules” Don’t Always Hold True02:07 – The Appeal and Pitfalls of Big Data02:41 – The Unseen Nuances: From Street Position to Lifestyle Fit05:35 – Macro Data vs. Micro Reality11:54 – When Personal Needs Outweigh the Numbers16:48 – How to Use Data Wisely Without Getting Stuck Chasing “Perfect”17:46 – Real-Life Lessons from Buyers20:54 – Final TakeawaysMentionsEpisode 252 – Are You Being Too Picky For Your Own GoodCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

A sunlit living room that opens onto a leafy backyard. A renovated kitchen with space for Sunday brunch. Walking distance to cafés, good schools, and a train station. For many Australians, that’s the dream first home — the one that feels like it was made just for you.But here’s the truth: waiting for perfect could be the reason you’re still searching.In this episode, Veronica and Meighan unpack the fine line between being discerning and being too picky. They explain how overanalyzing can lead to buyer paralysis, why even A-grade properties have imperfections, and how rising prices can outpace perfectionist decision-making.You’ll learn how to tell a red flag from a simple compromise (hint: unapproved renovations = run, but dated kitchens = fine), how to prioritise your non-negotiables without overstuffing your list, and how to think long-term about what really matters — comfort, potential, and growth.From real examples inside the First Home Buyer Course to smart compromise strategies, this episode will help you reframe what “good enough” actually means — and give you the clarity to move from stuck to smart.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:01 – The Art of Compromise in Home Buying01:40 – Why We Get Picky and When It Starts Holding You Back03:08 – How Overthinking Can Cost You the Right Property07:25 – Real Stories: Turning Imperfect Homes into Smart Buys11:29 – 6 Signs You’re Being Too Picky in Your Home Search22:14 – How to Stop Overanalyzing and Start Buying with ConfidenceMentionsEpisode 40: How Can You Identify A, B, and C Grade Properties? #40Course Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Losing out on your first property offer hurts — but it’s not the failure you think it is.In fact, it’s a powerful training ground.In this episode, Veronica and Meighan unpack why most first offers don’t win and why that’s actually a good thing. You’ll learn how rejection sharpens your instincts, builds negotiation skills, and helps you understand the market like a pro — from reading agent tactics to spotting real value versus hype.They also reveal the biggest traps buyers fall into after losing — from emotional rebounding and overpaying to blaming the “rigged” market — and how to stay strategic instead of desperate. Through real client stories and decades of experience, they’ll show you how every missed offer brings you one step closer to landing the right home at the right price.So if you’ve just had your first “no,” don’t panic — you’re learning the ropes.By the end of this episode, you’ll see rejection for what it really is: preparation for success.Listen now and learn how to turn setbacks into strategy — and why persistence always pays off.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:33 – Inside the Negotiation Game: What Buyers Often Miss02:04 – From Rejection to Strategy: Lessons from a “No”03:59 – Rookie Mistakes That Can Cost You Your First Home05:47 – How to Build Resilience After Missing Out07:33 – Bouncing Back Smarter After a Lost Offer14:27 – Desperation Is Dangerous: Stay Strategic, Not Scared20:47 – Persistence Pays Off: Keep Showing Up24:12 – Join Our First Home Buyer CommunityMentionsEP 244 - Avoiding Auction Regret: Lessons from a Victoria Buyer’s $43K LossCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Making an offer on your first home can feel like stepping into a high-stakes guessing game. Agents hint at “other buyers,” deadlines appear out of nowhere, and emotions run high. It’s no wonder so many first-timers overpay — or miss out entirely.In this episode, Veronica and Meighan pull back the curtain on the offer process so you can stop second-guessing yourself. They explain the different methods of sale across Australia, why understanding state rules is crucial, and how real estate agents use negotiation tactics to push buyers beyond their limits.You’ll learn the role of research in setting your walk-away price, the importance of timing your offer, and why auctions — though intimidating — can sometimes protect you from paying too much. The hosts also share red flags to watch out for, including false urgency, “best and final” traps, and emotional bidding that blows budgets.If you’ve ever felt lost, pressured, or outplayed during negotiations, this episode will give you the clarity and structure you need. By the end, you’ll know how to make confident offers, avoid costly rookie mistakes, and approach the process with the same toolkit used by buyer’s agents.👉 Ready to master the offer stage? Listen now and take one more step toward buying smarter.Episode Highlights00:00 — Introduction01:57 — What the Offer Process Really Looks Like02:45 — Different States, Different Rules to Know04:19 — Real Estate Agents: Whose Side Are They On?05:13 — Research & Timing: Keys to a Smart Offer07:00 — Auctions vs. Private Treaty: Which Is Safer?08:14 — Negotiation Strategies That Give You Power09:15 — Red Flags in the Offer Process to Watch For10:36 — Emotional Bidding: The #1 Budget Killer12:17 — Preparation Beats Panic in the Offer Stage12:55 — Next Steps: Getting Support to Buy SmarterMentionsThe “Other Buyer” Tactic: Real Threat or Agent Bluff?Melbourne Case Study: When Preparation Meets OpportunityCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourseSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

You’ve saved, sacrificed, and finally built up your deposit. But here’s the catch: your deposit is only part of the story. Buying your first home comes with a stack of hidden costs that can completely blindside you if you’re not prepared.In this episode, Veronica and Meighan pull back the curtain on the sneaky expenses that first home buyers often forget. From stamp duty surprises and loan fees to building inspections, strata reports, and conveyancing costs, they explain what you really need to budget for before signing a contract. You’ll also hear why skipping inspections to “save money” can end up costing you tens of thousands — and the simple steps to avoid those rookie mistakes.But the costs don’t stop once you’ve bought the home. We unpack the ongoing expenses — council rates, strata levies, water bills, insurance, maintenance, and even moving costs — that can quietly eat away at your cash flow. Plus, we share real stories of unexpected repairs (like underground plumbing disasters and broken air cons) that prove why every buyer needs a buffer.If you’ve been focused only on your deposit, this episode is your wake-up call. The good news? With the right planning, you can step into homeownership without fear of budget blowouts or nasty surprises.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:19 – Hidden Costs Buyers Overlook02:01 – Understanding Stamp Duty02:40 – Loan Fees & LMI Costs03:27 – Legal & Inspection Must-Haves05:43 – Rates, Levies & Ongoing Bills08:17 – The Importance of a Financial Buffer10:44 – Planning and Budgeting for SuccessCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Navigating your first home purchase is like stepping into uncharted waters — and for Luisa, it came with extra hurdles. COVID wiped out her savings, property jargon felt like another language, and even her partner questioned whether her standards were too high.What changed the game? The First Home Buyer course.By following the process, Luisa learned how to prepare properly, stick to her checklist, and persist when the search felt overwhelming. The course gave her the tools to understand the system, stay confident, and spot genuine opportunities.That preparation paid off when she secured an off-market property in her dream suburb — without compromising on what mattered most.Luisa is clear: without the course, her story would have ended very differently. For any first home buyer, her experience proves that knowledge, preparation, and persistence are the difference between regret and the right home.Listen now and see how the First Home Buyer Course can help you achieve the same clarity and confidence.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction02:18 – From Colombia to Melbourne: Starting the Journey03:54 – Adjusting to Australia’s Property System04:51 – How Luisa and Her Partner Saved for the Deposit08:23 – Why Education and Preparation Made All the Difference15:58 – How Talking to Agents Opened the Right Doors18:12 – Securing the Home and Reflections on the JourneyCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Buying your first home isn’t just about how it looks on inspection day — it’s about how it feels to live in year-round. The tricky part? Sellers and agents often showcase a property in its best light (literally). That sunny deck, breezy living room, or quiet coastal street might look perfect in one season, but turn into a nightmare when the weather shifts.In this episode, Meighan and Veronica uncover the seasonal traps that catch countless first home buyers. From west-facing living rooms that feel like ovens in summer to drafty, freezing hallways in winter, you’ll learn how aspect, orientation, and insulation can completely change the livability — and running costs — of a home.They also tackle the less obvious culprits: strong seasonal winds, mossie invasions, noisy flight paths, and even tourism patterns that can turn a peaceful suburb into a packed carpark. These are the realities few buyers think to check, but they can make or break your comfort (and your budget).By the end of the episode, you’ll know what to look for across all four seasons — not just the day you inspect — so you can make smarter, regret-free decisions. Because a first home should feel right year-round, not just when the sun is shining.Listen now to avoid seasonal surprises and buy with confidence.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction02:08 – Understanding Seasonality in Home Buying03:58 – Aspect, Light, and Heat Considerations06:34 – Wind and Weather Factors09:46 – Dealing with Insects and Nature12:57 – Quiet Streets in Winter, Gridlock in Summer15:00 – Heating, Cooling, and Insulation18:45 – Don’t Buy for Summer Alone: Final TakeawaysCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Buying your first home with just a 5% deposit sounds like a dream come true — no need to save for years, no lenders’ mortgage insurance, and a faster ticket into the market. But here’s the reality: schemes like the First Home Buyer Guarantee often reshape the market in ways buyers don’t expect.In this episode, Meighan and Veronica unpack the real impact of the 5% deposit scheme. From Brisbane’s overheated sub-$1M market to the quiet opportunities sitting just above the cap, they reveal why first home buyers are paying more than properties are truly worth — and how to avoid joining the herd.They explain the trade-offs: how Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) can sometimes unlock better value than the scheme itself, why long-term growth matters more than short-term savings, and how overpaying now could trap you in a stagnant property for years to come.By the end of this episode, you’ll know the risks of relying on the 5% deposit scheme, the smarter alternatives that could set you up for long-term success, and the key questions to ask your broker before making your move.Don’t just follow the crowd. Learn how to buy strategically — not reactively.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction02:03 – How the 5% Deposit Scheme Really Works03:20 – The Scheme’s Impact on Property Prices05:12 – Smarter Alternatives: LMI vs. 5% Deposit08:10 – Strategic Thinking for First Home Buyers15:35 – Final Thoughts & Course InformationCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Buying your first property is already nerve-wracking — but nothing rattles buyers more than hearing, “There’s another offer on the table.” Is it true competition, or just a sales tactic designed to push you into bidding more than you planned?In this episode, Veronica and Meighan pull back the curtain on the infamous “other buyer” bluff — a strategy many agents openly admit to using. You’ll learn why it works (hello, FOMO), how to tell when it’s real, and the red flags that suggest it’s nothing more than pressure tactics.We also walk through practical tools to keep your cool: from asking the right questions that reveal whether another buyer exists, to setting your walk-away price long before negotiations begin. You’ll hear why auction transparency can sometimes be a safer bet than private treaty, and why social proof plays such a powerful role in these conversations.Most importantly, you’ll discover how to stay grounded, avoid overpaying, and protect yourself from manipulation — even when the pressure is high. Because buying your first home should be strategic, not a knee-jerk reaction to a sales pitch.Don’t let fear or bluffing tactics derail your first home purchase. Listen now and learn how to buy smart, not scared.Episode Highlights00:00 – Introduction01:47 – Understanding Sales Agent Tactics02:32 – Common Buyer Scenarios02:49 – Dealing with Sudden Competition03:11 – Market Conditions and Buyer Psychology03:36 – Recognizing Real vs. Fake Offers09:35 – Testing the Existence of Other Buyers10:45 – Setting Your Budget and Limits14:34 – Negotiation Strategies17:20 – Avoiding Manipulation21:22 – Understanding the Sales Game26:18 – Transparency in Auctions vs. Private Sales27:54 – Final Tips for BuyersCourse Details:THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBGIf you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcastSubscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f

Imagine saving for years, finally building up a $43,000 deposit, only to risk losing it all because of one overlooked detail. That’s exactly what happened to a Victorian first home buyer caught out by a little-known property type — and the fine print of a government scheme. In this episode, Meighan and Veronica unpack a real-life buyer disaster that highlights just how easy it is to confuse stratum title with strata title. They explain what stratum actually is, why banks and schemes often reject it, and how a rebound auction decision left this buyer in a financial nightmare. You’ll learn why due diligence is never optional — from getting a solicitor to review contracts, to understanding the small print in shared equity schemes like the Victorian Homebuyer Fund and the soon-to-launch federal Help to Buy program. We also explore how excitement, missed inspections, and poor advice can cloud judgment and lead to costly mistakes. If you’ve ever felt tempted to rush into a property after missing out, or if you’re considering government assistance programs, this story is your warning. Don’t let confusion or haste put your hard-earned deposit at risk — get the right advice, follow the right process, and buy with confidence.   Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction 02:22 – The Home Buyer’s Tale Begins 03:14 – Understanding Stratum Title 05:21 – The Costly Mistake 07:42 – Government Schemes and Their Pitfalls 09:39 – Read the Fine Print: SuperSaver Scheme Mistake 10:34 – Shared Equity Schemes Explained 15:36 – Lessons from the Buyer’s Experience 20:07 – Final Thoughts and Course Promotion Mentions Ep. 229 – Grants, Schemes & Stamp Duty: The Costly Mistake First Home Buyers Keep Making Help to Buy   Course Details: THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG   If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f  See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Scary strata reports, surprise levies, and the fear of being gazumped — these are the traps that can derail a first home buyer’s journey. In this episode, we dive into the most recent questions buyers are asking in our Facebook Group. You’ll hear how to approach a strata report without panicking, what concrete cancer and special levies actually mean for your wallet, and why some red flags are worth running from — while others can be factored into the price. We also break down the stress of holding deposits and explain exactly when your contract is secure, and when gazumping could still catch you out. Plus, we tackle villa units — a property type that sits somewhere between an apartment and a townhouse — and show you how scarcity and land content affect their long-term value. And if you’re thinking of making an unconditional offer, we cover the must-do checks you cannot afford to skip. If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed by defects, levies, or confusing contract terms, this conversation will give you the clarity to move forward without regret. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction 02:09 – Understanding Strata Reports 02:40 – Q1: Researching Issues in Strata Reports 05:45 – Q2: Can You Be Outbid After Signing a Contract? 09:17 – Q3: How to Evaluate Villa Units 13:25 – Q4: Making Unconditional Offers in NSW 15:06 – Q5: Defects, Levies & Price: Dealbreaker or Discount? 17:42 – Conclusion and Final Advice Mentions Episode 30 - Where Do You Start with Due Diligence? Episode 128 - How are private treaty offers handled across Australian states? Course Details: THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buying your first home is rarely a straight line — and for Nathan and James, the road was full of detours, tough calls, and more than a few near misses.  In this episode, we follow their journey from eager house hunters to proud Melbourne homeowners, sharing exactly how they navigated a fast-moving market without losing sight of their goals. You’ll hear how they set up their deposit strategy (yes, including the Barefoot Investor “buckets”), tackled the confusing First Home Super Saver Scheme, and learned to filter well-meaning but unhelpful advice from family. From adjusting suburbs and rethinking their non-negotiables, to understanding the Three Ps — price, position, property — Nathan and James show how the right compromises can still lead you to the right home. We also unpack their auction journey: the early nerves, the losses that taught them what to do differently, and the strategies that finally helped them win the bid. Along the way, they reveal how the Home Buyer Academy course and weekly Campfire calls gave them the knowledge, confidence, and resilience to keep going — even when the market felt like it was running away from them. If you’ve been feeling stuck, second-guessing your options, or worn down by competition, this real-life case study is proof that you can buy well — even in a hot market — when you have the right tools, the right mindset, and the determination to see it through. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction 01:56 – Meet Nathan and James 02:19 – The Decision to Buy a Property 03:25 – Saving for a Deposit: Tips and Strategies 05:08 – Navigating Government Schemes and Incentives 08:14 – The Home Buying Process: Learning and Challenges 12:04 – The Search Process and Making Compromises 13:19 – Navigating Compromises in Home Buying 14:45 – The Importance of Pricing Analysis 16:19 – Learning from Auctions 17:36 – Dealing with Market Competition 19:20 – The Emotional Rollercoaster of Home Buying 22:05 – Final Thoughts and Advice for First Home Buyers Course Details: THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Buyer fatigue is real — and if you’re ready to quit, this episode is your reset. Veronica and Meighan break down why so many first home buyers lose momentum—and how to get back on track without compromising on the things that matter most. They unpack the signs of buyer burnout, how to spot when your strategy is no longer working, and what to do when the market has shifted under your feet. You’ll learn how to reassess your expectations, decide when and where to compromise, and avoid the trap of overcorrecting just to “get something done.” They also cover real-world pivots like switching suburbs, refining your search criteria, talking to agents differently, and timing your breaks without missing opportunities. If you’ve been stuck in the cycle of scrolling, inspecting, and still coming up short, this episode will help you recalibrate your next move with more clarity and confidence. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction 01:45 – Staying Motivated in Your Home Buying Journey 02:22 – Dealing with Market Realities 05:03 – Recognizing Buyer Fatigue 06:56 – Adjusting to Market Changes 08:40 – Making Smart Compromises 15:24 – Balancing Emotion and Logic 15:51 – Avoiding Overcorrection 18:50 – Staying Resilient and Strategic   Mentions Episode w/ Dayna – Perth Case Study: What It Takes to Buy Your Dream Home in a Red-hot Market Course Details: THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG   If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!   Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Every media headline says you can’t buy a home nowadays. Your friends say it. Even your brain believes it. But here’s the truth: it’s still possible — if you build the right habits.   In this episode, we call out the loop of doomscrolling, lifestyle inflation, and Uber Eats blowouts that keep first home buyers stuck. We break down how your daily choices — how you spend, save, and think — can either fuel your first home dreams or quietly sabotage them. You’ll hear real talk about what it takes to build a deposit, the mindset shifts that make it doable, and why good spending habits matter more than perfect timing. If you’ve been feeling like homeownership is out of reach, this is your reset. You’ll walk away with practical tips, renewed clarity, and the truth: buying your first home in Australia is still possible — if you stop waiting and start building. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction: The Housing Market Narrative 00:30 – Meet Your Hosts: Veronica and Meighan 02:21 – Mindset Over Headlines 03:18 – Habits That Move You Forward 04:12 – Planning, Sacrifice & Progress 06:43 – Building Long-Term Resilience 10:40 – The Influence of Social Media 16:51 – Surround Yourself with Positive Influences 18:18 – You’re Not Powerless: Taking Control of Your Home Buying Journey 18:53 – Join Our Community and Course Information Mentions Ep. 235 – When the Bank of Mum and Dad Goes Horribly Wrong Atomic Habits by James Clear Course Details: THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG   If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Is Perth still a good place to buy? Are Brisbane’s grants helping or hurting buyers? Is Sunbury in Melbourne a smart move – or a big mistake? In this episode, we answer some questions from our Facebook group. We're talking about real risks, tricky choices, and what you need to know before you buy. People often say things like “wait for the right time” or “use grants to get in.” But those tips can backfire. And while grants sound helpful, they can push you into areas that won’t grow in value. In this episode, we explain why timing the market doesn’t work and why grants sometimes lead you to bad buys. We’ll share the kind of practical tips that make a real difference, like how to recognise the warning signs of a risky suburb, what to think about when you’re looking at homes far from the city, and how to check if a grant is actually helping or just tempting you into a bad decision. We also talk through what can go wrong when too many investors buy in one place, why some areas get popular while others don’t, and how to choose a suburb that fits your life, not just your budget. This is about helping you feel steady and sure, instead of overwhelmed. When you know how to filter through the noise, compare your choices clearly, and trust your own judgment, you’ll be way more confident – and way less likely to make a decision you’ll regret. Episode Highlights 00:00 – Introduction 01:47 – Answering your questions: evaluating suburbs and market timing 02:40 – Is it a good time to buy in Perth? 05:46 – Navigating first home buyer grants in Brisbane 11:39 – Considering Sunbury in Melbourne for your first home 14:51 – Is there a best time to buy a villa or townhouse in Sydney? 18:14 – Avoiding risky suburbs for apartments in Brisbane Mentions Episode162 - New House and Land Packages: The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly QLD Government - Concessions for homes - Check your eligibility Course Details THE First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG   If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.