Your First Home. Clear strategy
Whether you’re just starting out or ready to buy, we guide you step by step with clarity and confidence.
Looking to take the big step?
Buying your first home is a big moment, equal parts exciting, daunting, and “where do we even start?”. Between deposits, borrowing power, government grants, and loan options, it can feel like learning a new language. That’s where we come in. At Indigo Finance, we break it down step by step, answer the questions you didn’t even know to ask, and guide you confidently onto the property ladder.
WHAT first time OFTEN MEANS
Wondering how much you can actually borrow
Feeling unsure about repayments and what you can comfortably afford
Saving for a deposit while keeping up with everyday life
Asking friends and family for advice (and getting five different answers)
Trying to understand grants, stamp duty and government schemes
Wanting confidence that you're making the right decision
Comparing lenders without knowing what really matters
Someone to guide you through the process from start to finish
Whether you’re just starting your savings journey or ready to buy, we’re here to make your first home feel achievable, not overwhelming.
WHY A lending specialist IS SO IMPORTANT
If any of this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Buying your first home can feel overwhelming, and you’re not expected to know everything, that’s our job.
At Indigo Finance, we take the time to understand your goals and concerns, explain your options clearly, compare lenders on your behalf, and structure a loan that supports both today’s purchase and your future plans.
You’ll never feel rushed or pressured, just informed, supported, and confident. And because we’re paid by the lender you choose, there’s no cost to you for our personalised advice.
THE PROCESS OF buying your first home
Buying your first home is an exciting milestone, and while there are a few steps along the way, you won’t be navigating them alone. From your first conversation to the day you collect the keys, your Indigo Lending Adviser and Client Services Team will guide you every step of the way.
Step 1
Discovery & Pre-Approval
Step 1
Discovery & Pre-Approval
We get to know your goals, determine how much you can borrow and secure pre-approval, giving you confidence before you start house hunting.
Book a ChatStep 2
Find Your Home
Step 2
Find Your Home
With your budget confirmed, it's time to find the right property. We'll be here to answer questions as you search and help you understand what comes next.
Book a ChatStep 3
Make an Offer
Step 3
Make an Offer
Once you've found the one, we'll work alongside your solicitor or conveyancer to finalise your finance application and prepare everything for formal approval.
Book a ChatStep 4
Formal Approval
Step 4
Formal Approval
Your lender completes their final assessment and issues unconditional approval, giving you the confidence to move towards settlement.
Book a ChatStep 5
Settlement & Welcome Home
Step 5
Settlement & Welcome Home
Settlement is when ownership officially transfers to you. Once the paperwork is complete and funds are exchanged, you'll receive the keys and officially become a homeowner.
Book a ChatSAVING FOR A DEPOSIT? How much can I borrow?
As a general rule of thumb you should have saved 20% of the value of your home as a deposit. However there are many circumstances where this can be substantially lower, just 8 – 10%. A lower deposit sometimes means Mortgage Insurance is required however, there are many options from many lenders and the government often has helpful schemes to help first home buyers.
If you are a first home buyer make sure you read the First Home Owners guides listed below. Also check out our helpful calculators on the website.
An Indigo Lending specialist can help you navigate all your options
FINDING THE right home
Buying your first home is exciting but focusing on the fundamentals will set you up well. Look beyond the finishes and prioritise location, access to transport, schools, shops, and long-term liveability. Make sure the property suits your lifestyle and feels comfortable within your budget.
Do a little homework too. Review recent sales, explore different property types, and attend inspections to understand the market. The more informed you are, the more confident you’ll feel when the right home comes along.
Government schemes and assistance all first home buyers should know about
The government has various financial schemes to help first homeowners buy their first home. Make sure you read these or talk to an Indigo Lending Adviser to help guide you into your first home faster:
FEDERAL schemes
to help you purchase your first home
- First Home Super Saving Scheme
- 5% Deposit Scheme
- Help to Buy Scheme
NSW schemes
to help you purchase your first home
- First Home Owners Grant NSW
Queensland schemes
to help you purchase your first home
- First Home Owners Grant Queensland
Helpful calculators
- Loan Repayment Calculator
- Savings Calculator
- Savings Goal Calculator
- Home Loan Offset Calculator
- How Long to Repay Calculator
- Rent vs Buy Calculator
- Stamp Duty Calculator
Frequently asked questions
Will dealing with Indigo Finance cost me money? Are there fees?
Will dealing with Indigo Finance cost me money? Are there fees?
No. There is no cost to you for our service. We’re paid directly by the lender you choose, so you receive expert advice and support without paying a fee.
What percentage of the property value do I need to have saved up to buy a home?
What percentage of the property value do I need to have saved up to buy a home?
Ideally, 20% of the purchase price helps you avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). However, many buyers purchase with as little as 5-10%, depending on eligibility and loan structure.
What is Lenders Mortgage Insurance?
What is Lenders Mortgage Insurance?
Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) protects the lender if you borrow more than 80% of the property’s value. It’s a one-off cost that can often be added to your loan.
Is the interest rate lower on an Owner-Occupied Home Loan than an Investment Loan?
Is the interest rate lower on an Owner-Occupied Home Loan than an Investment Loan?
Generally, yes. Owner-occupied loans often attract lower rates because they are considered lower risk than investment loans.
What are my Stamp Duty costs when I buy a home? What other cost are there?
What are my Stamp Duty costs when I buy a home? What other cost are there?
Stamp duty varies by state and property value. First home buyers may be eligible for concessions. Other costs can include legal fees, building inspections, loan application fees, and moving expenses.
What is the difference between a fixed rate and a variable rate home loan?
What is the difference between a fixed rate and a variable rate home loan?
A fixed rate locks in your interest rate for a set period, offering repayment certainty. A variable rate can move up or down with the market and often offers more flexibility.
What is a redraw facility?
What is a redraw facility?
A redraw facility allows you to access any extra repayments you’ve made on your loan, giving you flexibility if you need funds later.
What is an offset account?
What is an offset account?
An offset account is a transaction account linked to your loan. The balance reduces the amount of interest charged on your mortgage.
How long does it take to get approved for a home loan?
How long does it take to get approved for a home loan?
Pre-approval can take a few days to a week, while full approval depends on the lender and documentation provided. We’ll guide you on expected timelines.
What’s a guarantor loan? Could it help me get my first home faster?
What’s a guarantor loan? Could it help me get my first home faster?
A guarantor loan allows a family member to use their property as additional security, which may help you buy sooner or avoid LMI. It’s important to understand the risks involved.
Can you rent out a property that was originally financed as a Owner-Occupied Home Loan?
Can you rent out a property that was originally financed as a Owner-Occupied Home Loan?
Possibly, but you must inform your lender. Your loan terms and interest rate may change once the property becomes an investment.
Can I claim a tax deduction for my interest payments on my Home Loan?
Can I claim a tax deduction for my interest payments on my Home Loan?
Interest on your own home is generally not tax-deductible. However, interest on an investment property loan may be. Always seek advice from a qualified tax professional.
Ready to get on the property ladder?
You don’t need to know everything about buying your first home, that’s our job. We’ll guide you through every step, answer the questions you haven’t thought to ask, and make sure your lending is structured to support not just this purchase, but the next chapter too.
Book a Discovery Call with an Indigo Lending Adviser and let’s take the first step together.