If you’ve been sitting on the sidelines waiting for the “right time” to buy, this might be the closest we’ve seen in a while.
After a tough few years, things are starting to shift. House prices have eased back from their peaks, while incomes have been gradually improving. That combination is making it a bit more realistic for first home buyers to get their foot in the door again.
We’re also seeing less pressure from investors compared to previous years. That’s important, because when investors step back, it tends to open up more opportunities for owner-occupiers, especially first home buyers.
Another interesting trend is around deposits. More buyers are getting in with less than the traditional 20%, thanks to low-deposit lending options. It doesn’t mean it’s the right move for everyone, but it does mean there are more pathways than people often think.
That said, it’s not suddenly “easy.” Interest rates are still a factor, and lending criteria hasn’t exactly loosened across the board. But compared to a couple of years ago, buyers have more negotiating power and more choice.
What this means for you:
- You might not need as big a deposit as you think
- You’ve got more room to negotiate on price and conditions
- There’s less urgency — you can take a bit more time to get it right
If you’re unsure where you sit, it’s worth having a chat. A quick review of your situation can often show options you didn’t realise were there. Get in touch today!