Navigating the path to your first home can feel like a daunting journey, filled with uncertainties and a barrage of information. As someone who has assisted over 20,000 individuals in understanding the intricacies of purchasing properties in Queensland over the past three decades, I'm here to simplify the process for you.

Step 1: Get your finances in order

Embarking on the journey begins with the imperative task of saving a substantial deposit. Consult with your accountant to explore strategies to maximise your savings. Additionally, research government grants and incentives you may qualify for, as they can significantly contribute to your deposit.

Next, establish connections with lenders. If your current bank falls short of meeting your requirements, consider engaging a mortgage broker. Acting as intermediaries, they diligently explore options on your behalf and alleviate the complexities of paperwork and industry jargon. Ensure your documentation is in order including payslips, and comprehensive details of your expenses. Take this opportunity to reassess your budget, recognising that the financial commitment of buying a property extends beyond the purchase price. Various expenses including Stamp Duty, legal costs, loan fees, and essential building inspections should also be considered.

Step 2: Location location location

Understanding the importance of choosing the right location is paramount. Identify suburbs that align with your preferences, however, extend your investigation beyond mere affordability, incorporating factors such as flood and fire risks and market trends. This perspective serves as the groundwork for refining your shortlist.

Next, actively engage with the available properties. Attend open homes to acquire firsthand insights and evaluate what property offers. Consider bringing along a friend or someone with an independent perspective. This collaborative approach enhances the likelihood of making a well-informed and satisfying property selection.

Step 3: Securing your property

You’ve got your eye on a property and it’s now time to take a critical move forward understanding it is crucial to navigate this step efficiently. Once an offer is accepted the pace of the process accelerates so it's essential to have a team of professionals ready to assist you:

• Solicitor: Playing a pivotal role in the process, they handle the contract and oversee the conveyancing process. Their expertise ensures the property is legally available for sale and free from any legal encumbrances.

• Lender: After conducting a property valuation, your bank or broker will facilitate the exchange of financials and paperwork streamlining the transaction process on your behalf.

• Property Inspectors: Several inspectors contribute to ensuring a property's integrity. The building inspector examines the property for flaws or faults. Here's what you can expect from your property inspection report. A pest inspector evaluates the property for signs of pest infestation and if applicable, a pool inspector assesses the compliance of the pool and addresses any fencing issues. If an inspection identifies a major concern it is recommended to engage the services of a building surveyor. Armed with a plethora of information, you can make an independent decision on whether to proceed.

As a first home buyer, being organised is essential, and be prepared for the emotional highs and lows that come with the process. Actively listen to advice from experienced experts and approach each step with a combination of caution and confidence.

Meet The Expert: Andrew Mackintosh, Building and Property Investment Expert

Meet our Property Investment Expert, Andrew Mackintosh. As Principal Building Inspector at Action Property Inspections, Andrew Mackintosh brings 30 years of experience in the building and property game to his contributions to Viw. One in 26 Brisbane homes has been personally inspected by Andrew, averaging over 100 homes per suburb*.

Property Risk Assessment

Andrew’s expertise in risk assessment for homes comes from being a fully accredited master builder for over thirty years and reputable building inspector under the QBCC. His flawless reputation has lead him to win countless awards for professionalism and attention to detail. Andrew’s ongoing work with Brisbane property investors has lead to him offering insight into not only the standard risks in a property purchase but the seasonal risks he’s encountered over 30+ years in the industry.

*According to ABS, there are 520,000 homes in Brisbane. According to Brisbane City Council, there are 190 suburbs in Brisbane

Property Market Insights

After three decades of hands-on, day to day experience in the property market, Andrew brings VIW unique insights into the ever shifting playing field for buyers and investors. Andrew’s long career has meant he experienced booms and busts firsthand and is able to share insights for new investors entering the market.

Trades Industry

Andrew provides Viw with up-to-date insights into changes in the trades and building industries. From advice to those trying to hire an ethical tradesperson to the industry players dealing with modern issues including supply chain challenges, staffing and skills shortages and a rapidly changing market.

Small Business Insights

As a business owner with three decades’ experience, Andrew shares key insights into all elements of business establishment, growing pains and exit plans for our readers. Andew shares a wealth of insight into everything from branding to finance, growth barriers to marketing. Andrew’s brand is synonymous with quality, and his reputation for professionalism has been the key to ongoing growth spanning decades.