How Much Deposit Do You Need for a First Home Owners Grant?
You’ve probably heard it before: “You need a huge deposit to buy your first home.” But what if that’s not entirely true? Many first time buyers delay their dream for years thinking they need 20% saved when in reality, government support and the first home owners grant for existing homes could get you into the market much sooner. Let’s break the myth, simplify the numbers, and show you exactly what deposit you really need in 2026. Understanding the Basics: Deposit vs Grant Before diving into numbers, here’s the key distinction: Deposit = Your savings contribution First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) = A government bonus to help reduce your upfront costs The grant is not your deposit but it can significantly reduce the financial pressure. So, How Much Deposit Do You Actually Need? The 5% Rule (Game Changer for First Buyers) In 2026, most eligible buyers can purchase a home with as little as 5% deposit under government-backed schemes. That means: $600,000 home → $30,000 deposit $800,0...