12 GIU 2025 · Description: In this eye-opening episode of The First Home Owners Program Podcast, host Maryanne Elliott reveals the often-overlooked costs of buying your first property. Learn why your deposit is just the beginning and how working with a mortgage broker can help you budget accurately for your entire home buying journey.Key Points:
- The major upfront costs beyond your deposit that first home buyers frequently underestimate
- Post-settlement expenses that can strain your budget if not properly planned for
- How mortgage brokers provide comprehensive cost estimates tailored to your specific situation
- Real-life example of how proper cost planning prevented financial stress for first-time buyers
- Queensland-specific information on stamp duty and first home buyer concessions
Resources Mentioned:
- First Home Buyers online course: [link to course]
- Free 15-minute strategy call: https://calendly.com/360mortgagesolutions
- Home Buying Cost Calculator: [link to resource]
- First Home Owner Grant information: [link to resource]
Connect with 360 Mortgage Solutions:
- Website: https://360mortgagesolutions.com.au/
- Phone: (07) 3520 8698
- Email: mailto:info@360mortgagesolutions.com.au
- Instagram: [Instagram handle]
- Facebook: [Facebook page]
About Maryanne Elliott: Maryanne is the founder of 360 Mortgage Solutions and has worked in the finance industry since 2005. With experience as a bank teller, branch manager, portfolio manager, home lender, and trainer, she launched 360 Mortgage Solutions in late 2016 and The First Home Owners Program in late 2017 to help Australians navigate the complex journey to homeownership.Keywords: first home buyer, hidden property costs, stamp duty, lenders mortgage insurance, mortgage broker, home loan fees, property purchase expenses, Queensland first home buyer, settlement costs, building inspection
Episode Transcript:
INTRO: Welcome to The First Home Owners Program Podcast! I'm Maryanne Elliott from 360 Mortgage Solutions, and today we're pulling back the curtain on something that catches many first-time buyers by surprise – the hidden costs of buying a property. Those expenses beyond the deposit that can quickly add thousands to your budget. But don't worry – by the end of this episode, you'll know exactly what to expect and how a broker can help you navigate these financial surprises.
SECTION 1: BEYOND THE DEPOSIT When most people think about buying their first home, they focus almost exclusively on saving for the deposit. And while that's certainly important, it's just the beginning of your financial commitment.Let's break down some of these hidden costs:First, there's stamp duty – a government tax that varies by state and property value. In Queensland, for a $500,000 property, this could be around $8,750, though first home buyers may qualify for concessions.Then there are loan application and establishment fees. Depending on your lender, these can range from $200 to over $1,000.Don't forget lenders mortgage insurance or LMI. If your deposit is less than 20%, you'll likely need to pay this, which can add thousands to your costs.Legal and conveyancing fees typically range from $800 to $2,000 for a standard property purchase.Building and pest inspections are essential and typically cost between $400 and $600 combined.
SECTION 2: AFTER SETTLEMENT COSTS But wait – there's more! After you get the keys, you'll face:Moving costs, which can range from a few hundred dollars if you're doing it yourself to several thousand for professional movers.Council rates and body corporate fees if applicable.Home and contents insurance – a must-have that many first-time buyers underestimate.And don't forget about immediate repairs or renovations. That peeling wallpaper or outdated bathroom you planned to "fix later" might become an urgent priority once you move in.
SECTION 3: THE BROKER ADVANTAGE This is where working with a mortgage broker becomes invaluable. At 360 Mortgage Solutions, we don't just help you find the right loan – we provide a comprehensive cost estimate tailored to your specific situation.As your broker, I'll:Create a detailed breakdown of all government charges specific to your property and situation.Calculate your exact stamp duty, including any first home buyer concessions you might be eligible for.Estimate all lender fees and charges, helping you compare the true cost of different loan options.Provide a settlement cost estimate that includes legal fees, adjustments, and transfer costs.Factor in post-settlement expenses like insurance and moving costs to give you a complete financial picture.The result? No nasty surprises and a clear understanding of exactly how much you need to budget beyond your deposit.
SECTION 4: REAL CLIENT EXAMPLE Let me share a quick story about a couple I worked with recently. James and Emma had diligently saved a $50,000 deposit for their first home. They were looking at properties around $500,000 and thought they were ready to go.When we sat down for their initial consultation, I created a comprehensive cost estimate. They were shocked to discover they needed an additional $15,000 to cover all the associated costs! Rather than being discouraged, they were grateful to know this before falling in love with a property they couldn't afford.We adjusted their search criteria slightly, found them a lovely property that fit their true budget, and they moved in three months later – with no financial stress or unexpected bills.
CONCLUSION: Understanding the full financial picture of buying a home isn't just about avoiding stress – it's about making informed decisions that set you up for long-term success. As a mortgage broker, providing these detailed cost estimates is one of the most valuable services I offer my clients.If you're starting your home buying journey, book a free 15-minute call with me, and let's make sure you're prepared for every cost along the way – not just the obvious ones.Until next time, this is Maryanne Elliott from The First Home Owners Program Podcast, helping you navigate the path to homeownership with confidence.