Episode 39 - Cracking the First Home Market: Strategies, Challenges & Government Incentives

In this insightful and energetic episode of Finance This Property That, host Dion Fernandez welcomes back Luke and introduces Gem from Lucid Property Investments to dive deep into the current landscape for first home buyers in Australia. The trio unpacks practical strategies, personal journeys, and powerful tools like the First Home Guarantee Scheme and property share loans that are changing how people access the market. With candid stories, expert advice, and a breakdown of upcoming election policies, this episode offers invaluable guidance for first-time buyers navigating affordability, borrowing capacity, and lifestyle trade-offs.

🗂️ Episode Breakdown:

[00:00–05:00]
Introduction & Welcome

• Dion introduces the episode and returning guest Luke.
• New guest Gem shares his background and recent trip to Vietnam, providing personal perspective on living simply and property ambitions.

[05:00–15:00]
The First Home Buyer Mindset

• Discussion on expectations vs. reality for first home buyers.
• Importance of adjusting borrowing capacity goals and managing lifestyle expectations.

[15:00–25:00]
The Buying Strategy: Gem’s Case Study

• Gem details his plan to co-buy with a friend using the First Home Guarantee Scheme.
• Benefits of buying with a friend, sweat equity, and planning for long-term growth.

[25:00–35:00]
Market Challenges & Property Access

• Limited property supply and rising prices.
• Off-market access advantages and using data to target ideal purchases.

[35:00–40:00]
Creative Financing Options

• Property share loans and how banks treat debt structures.
• Rentvesting and guarantor strategies explained for first home buyers.

[40:00–50:00]
Election Policy Breakdown: Labor vs. Liberal

• Overview of both parties’ proposed housing policies.
• Key changes: increased scheme caps, tax deductions on home loans, using super for deposits, and serviceability buffer adjustments.

[50:00–55:00]
Final Thoughts & Resources

• Emphasis on getting organized and educated.
• Gem and Luke share where to find them online for more insights.
• Dion wraps up with a call to action for listeners to share and subscribe.

📌 Takeaways for Listeners:

• You don’t need to go it alone—co-ownership and property share loans are rising.
• Think strategically: sweat equity, rentvesting, and borrowing capacity planning pay off.
• Policy changes could expand opportunities—stay informed and be ready.
• First home buying isn’t just a financial decision—it’s a lifestyle one too.