Frequently Asked Questions
Is now a good time to buy my own house?
With low interest rates, lower land and house prices, lots of builders and developers’ incentives, this definitely is a good time to look at your options. Why waste money on rent when you can own your home?
Do I have to be a citizen or permanent resident to buy a house?
Generally, yes. However, there may be some other options available to you. I need to collect all your information for my finance team who will then assess your situation and present all your options.
Is it better to buy an established house or build a new house?
Check out my page “To build or not to build?” in the “Your Home” section of my website. Although new is usually always better than used, there is no right or wrong answer and will depend on your circumstances and requirements.
Can I buy a house in Perth if I live outside of Perth?
Yes, you can. There are certain requirements depending on whether you are a first home buyer or an investor. I need to collect all your information for my finance team who will then assess your situation and present all your options.
Is falling interest rates a good thing or a bad thing?
Lower rates mean more people can afford to get out of the rent trap and into their own home. Provided you have a stable job and can afford a mortgage, lower rates mean more money in your pocket. That’s a good thing!
Can I qualify to get the First Home Owners Grant if I previously owned a house but never received the grant?
Generally, no. However, more details about your previous home ownership is required so please contact me. Please also check out my page “First Home Owners Grant” in the “Your Finance” section of my website.
Do I need a $20,000 deposit before I can qualify to get a home?
The deposit is a percentage of the property purchase price and can vary depending on the lender. I need to collect all your information for my finance team who will then assess your situation and present all your options.
Is it better to use a finance broker or go directly to a bank?
Check out my page “It starts with Finance” in the “Your Finance” section of my website.
Is Keystart a good option to consider rather than a bank?
Keystart may be a good alternative option but it depends on your circumstances. I need to collect all your information for my finance team who will then assess your situation and present all your options.
Can I get a home without any savings or deposit?
Yes. Check out my page “No Savings No Worries” in the “Your Finance” section of my website.
When building, do I have to spend a lot of money after I get the keys?
Depending on the House & Land package you get, you may not have to spend any more money. It’s very important to discuss with your consultant exactly what is and what is not included in your package.
Can any of my children buy a house together with me?
Yes, they can. However, it will depend on your circumstances and the requirements of the lender. I need to collect all your information for my finance team who will then assess your situation and present all your options.
Do I need more savings to build a new home or buy an established home?
With the many grants and rebates available when you build a new home, generally you need less savings when you build. Contact me for more information and also check out the “Your Finance” section of my website.
With falling house and land prices is it better to wait a little longer or buy now?
Lower prices mean more people can afford to get out of the rent trap and into their own home. Provided you have a stable job and can afford a mortgage, this may be your best chance of owning your home.
Can I borrow money if I am just a single parent with one income?
Yes, you can. It will depend on the number of dependents, income, debts etc. I need to collect all your information for my finance team who will then assess your situation and present all your options.
How long do I need to be in my job before I can get a home loan?
Generally, 3, 6 or 12 months depending on your previous and current jobs. I need to collect all your information for my finance team who will then assess your situation and present all your options.
With so many builders how can I know I have made the right decision?
If you have been referred to a builder that’s great. It means the person referring you has had a good experience or knows someone who has. Your decision should be about the whole experience, not just price or inclusions.
Can I use my own home design?
Yes, provided the design is not a copy of another builder’s design as this is an infringement of copyright. Please also check out my page “Choosing your Home Design” in the “Your Home” section of my website.
Can you help to find a block to build my home or do I have to find my own?
Yes, I can help you find a block. I am well connected with all the developers throughout Perth. I can also look for any private blocks on the market in areas where land may be scarce.
People talk about “hidden” costs with builders. What is this?
A builder has to include a cost provision for site works. The cost will depend on the soil type, proximity to bush etc. Some consultants do not allow for everything in their proposal and thus will lead to unexpected costs later.
Will it cost me more when making changes to a house design?
Yes, if the changes you require need more materials and labour. But not all changes will incur a cost. Once you have decided on the changes you want, the builder’s estimator will calculate any additional costs.
What is a developer or land rebate?
Some developers will offer cash incentives to people to buy in their developments. The cash incentive or rebate is paid to the client at settlement of the block or can be paid to the builder to offset the price of the house.
What is a settlement agent?
A settlement agent or conveyancer is the person who assists with the settlement of your property once finance has been approved. Amongst other things, they will arrange the transfer of title of your property into your name.
What is Stamp Duty?
Check out my page “It starts with Finance” in the “Your Finance” section of my website.
What is the Home Of My Own Grant?
Check out my page “It starts with Finance” in the “Your Finance” section of my website.