First Home Buyers Are Back: Could It Be Your Turn Too?

Here’s some welcome winter news. First home buyers are stepping back into the market in noticeable numbers. If you’ve been thinking about buying your first home, now might be a smart time to take the next step.

Recent figures from NAB show that lending to first home buyers has risen by 16% since February. It’s a strong bump, and while this data comes from just one lender, it reflects a wider shift that’s catching attention.

Let’s look at what’s making the timing feel right for so many.

Consumer confidence is lifting. There’s been a slight but encouraging improvement in how Australians are feeling about their finances. As cost-of-living pressures start to ease, more people are feeling ready to make big decisions.

Interest rates are a major part of this. About two-thirds of Australians believe home loan rates will either stay the same or drop in the next 12 months. That’s a big confidence boost for buyers.

Westpac is backing this up with forecasts of two interest rate cuts before the end of the year and more to follow in 2026. For many would-be homeowners, the idea of lower repayments is enough to tip the scales.

Property Prices Are Expected to Rise

Another motivator is the belief that home values are about to increase. The latest Westpac–Melbourne Institute Index shows that expectations for house prices are now at their highest point since 2013.

More than three-quarters of Australians think property prices will go up in the next 12 months. This is especially relevant to first home buyers.

CoreLogic data confirms that while the overall pace of growth has slowed, the most affordable properties are still gaining value. This is exactly the part of the market where first home buyers are most active.

If you’re ready to buy, moving sooner might save you money compared to waiting.

First Home Buyer Support Still Available

Saving for a deposit can still be hard work. The good news is there’s a fair bit of help available for first home buyers, depending on where you live.

Most states and territories offer stamp duty exemptions or discounts, and some have first-home-owner grants that can give your savings a boost.

There’s also the Home Guarantee Scheme, which lets eligible first home buyers purchase a home with just a 5% deposit. Even better, you won’t need to pay Lenders Mortgage Insurance. This can save you thousands of dollars.

If you’re not sure what you’re eligible for, a mortgage broker can help you find out what’s available in your area and how to apply.

Listings Are on the Rise

Winter is usually a quiet season for real estate, but this year is breaking the pattern.

CoreLogic reports that over 35,000 new properties were listed for sale in the four weeks leading up to 1 June 2025. That’s a strong rebound and a sign that more homes are becoming available.

More listings mean more choice. You might find something that suits your needs, fits your budget, and is ready to move into without delay.

Is It Your Time to Buy?

A lot is working in favour of first home buyers right now. Conditions are shifting, support is available, and there’s more stock to choose from. If you’ve been waiting for a sign, this could be it.

At Osinski Finance, we make it easier to understand your lending options from the outset. We’ll assess your borrowing capacity, match you with a suitable home loan, and explain any grants or schemes you may qualify for.

Whether you're buying your first home, refinancing, or investing in property, we offer tailored finance solutions to help you take the next step with clarity.

Our goal is to help you move forward with confidence and avoid any costly surprises.

Contact us today to get started. Whether you’re nearly ready or still weighing up your options, we’ll guide you with straightforward advice and practical support.

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