Question 1

Am I eligible for the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant?

Accepted Answer

Generally yes if you and your partner have never owned a home in Australia, at least one of you is an Australian citizen or permanent resident, you are 18 or over, and you are buying or building a new home. For contracts from 7 May 2026 the home must be valued at $800,000 or less in Perth and Peel.

Question 2

Do I have to live in the home?

Accepted Answer

Yes. To keep the grant you need to move in within 12 months of completion and live there continuously for at least six months.

Question 3

Can I get the grant on an established home?

Accepted Answer

No. In WA the First Home Owner Grant is for new homes only, which is why most first home buyers we help build a house and land package.

Question 4

How much stamp duty will I pay on land?

Accepted Answer

For eligible first home buyers from 7 May 2026, there is no transfer duty on vacant land valued up to $450,000, and reduced duty up to $550,000. Most land in the Perth and Peel growth corridors falls under these thresholds.

Question 5

How much deposit do I need to build?

Accepted Answer

With the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme you can build with a 5% deposit and no lenders mortgage insurance, and Keystart offers loans from a 2% deposit. You will also need money for loan costs and any upgrades. We map out your full cash position on your first call.

Question 6

Can I use the grant as my deposit?

Accepted Answer

For a new build the grant is normally paid with your first progress payment, so it reduces the amount you borrow rather than replacing your upfront deposit. Your lender will confirm how it fits with your loan.

Question 7

Is there an income limit for the 5% Deposit Scheme?

Accepted Answer

No. There are no income caps, but the property must be under the price cap, which is $850,000 in Perth and $600,000 in other WA areas. Your lender still needs to approve the loan.

Question 8

Can I use my super to save a deposit?

Accepted Answer

Yes, through the First Home Super Saver Scheme. You can release voluntary contributions of up to $15,000 a year and $50,000 in total, plus earnings. Compulsory employer contributions can't be withdrawn.

Question 9

How long does it take to build?

Accepted Answer

It depends on the builder, the design and the site. Before you sign anything we give you a realistic timeline for your package, from land settlement to handover.

Question 10

What are site costs?

Accepted Answer

Site costs cover preparing your block for building, such as earthworks, retaining and service connections. They vary from lot to lot, so we check they are included and realistic before you sign.

Question 11

Do I pay rent and a mortgage while I build?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. During construction you usually pay interest on the amount drawn so far, so repayments start small and grow as the build progresses. We help you plan for this from the start.

Question 12

Can I choose my own design?

Accepted Answer

Yes. You can browse our home designs for lots from 6m to 15m wide, and we'll match them with land that suits.

Question 13

Where do you help first home buyers?

Accepted Answer

Our first home buyer service covers Perth and Peel. See where to buy for the growth corridors we work in.

Question 14

Do you work for a particular builder?

Accepted Answer

No. We work with more than 30 vetted builders and developers, so we can compare options and recommend what suits you rather than one company's stock.

Question 15

What happens on the first call?

Accepted Answer

It takes about 20 minutes. We talk through your income, savings and goals, estimate your borrowing power, and tell you which grants and schemes you're likely to qualify for. There's no obligation.

First home buyer FAQs

Grants and eligibility