Understand Your Position
We look at your income, commitments, deposit and overall financial position to understand your indicative borrowing capacity.
RESIDENTIAL PROPERTY FINANCE FIRST HOME BUYER
Your first home. The right foundation.
Buying your first home is a major step — and getting the finance right from the beginning can make the journey much clearer.
See where to startYOUR JOURNEY STARTS HERE
At StoneHaven Finance, we help first home buyers understand how much they may be able to borrow, what deposit they may need and which lending options may suit their circumstances.
From your first conversation through to pre-approval, application and settlement, we help you navigate the lending process with clarity and confidence.
BEFORE THE PROPERTY SEARCH
Know where you stand before you start looking.
One of the most important steps for a first home buyer is understanding your borrowing position before you start making offers.
We can help you assess:
- Your indicative borrowing capacity
- Deposit and upfront cost requirements
- Available home loan options
- Fixed and variable interest rate options
- Lenders’ Mortgage Insurance (LMI) considerations
- Potential government schemes or concessions that may be available, subject to current eligibility requirements
- Your indicative repayments and overall lending position
With this information, you can search for a property with a clearer understanding of what may be achievable.
THE LENDING JOURNEY
From pre-approval to settlement.
Getting a home loan involves more than choosing an interest rate. StoneHaven Finance helps you navigate each stage of the process, including:
Explore Your Options
We compare available lending options from our panel of lenders and explain the key differences so you can make an informed decision.
Prepare for Pre-Approval
Where appropriate, we help prepare your application and supporting documents for lender assessment.
Find Your Home
With greater clarity around your lending position, you can approach your property search with a more informed budget.
Progress Towards Settlement
Once you have secured a property, we help progress your application through lender assessment, respond to any requests for additional information and, where formally approved, support you through to settlement.
FINANCE WITH CLARITY
A clearer way to start your home ownership journey.
Your first home loan should reflect your circumstances, borrowing position and plans — not simply the first available option.
StoneHaven Finance takes the time to understand where you are today and what you are working towards. We then compare available lending options and explain them in straightforward terms, so you understand what you are applying for and why.
With access to a broad panel of banks and specialist lenders, we help simplify the lending process while keeping your goals at the centre of the conversation.
FIRST HOME BUYER FAQs
Questions worth asking early.
How much deposit do I need to buy my first home?
The deposit you need can vary depending on the lender, your financial circumstances, the property and whether you qualify for any applicable government schemes or concessions. A smaller deposit may be possible in some circumstances, although additional costs such as LMI may need to be considered.
Can I buy my first home with a smaller deposit?
Potentially. Some lenders may accept a lower deposit depending on your circumstances and the loan structure. We can help you understand the options available and the potential costs involved.
Can I get pre-approval before finding a property?
In many cases, yes. A lender’s pre-approval can provide an indication of your borrowing position before you begin making offers. It may also help you understand your likely price range and prepare to move when you find a suitable property.
Pre-approval is generally conditional, remains subject to lender requirements and does not guarantee that final approval will be provided for a particular property or loan amount.
What costs should I budget for when buying my first home?
Your deposit is only one part of the overall cost. Depending on your circumstances, you may also need to allow for stamp duty, government and registration charges, conveyancing or legal costs, inspections, lender fees and potentially LMI. Some first home buyers may be eligible for government assistance or concessions, subject to the applicable eligibility requirements at the time of application.
What happens after my offer is accepted?
Once you've secured a property, the next steps generally involve progressing your loan application, satisfying any remaining lender requirements, receiving formal approval and working towards settlement. StoneHaven Finance can help coordinate the lending process and keep you informed along the way.
HAVE MORE QUESTIONS?
Let’s talk about your first home.
Explore our FAQs for answers to common lending questions, or speak with StoneHaven Finance about your circumstances.