Last updated: April 2026
First Home Buyer Checklist Australia 2026: Step by Step
Buying your first home involves dozens of steps across government schemes, finance, and legal processes. Getting the order right matters, especially with the FHSS timing and scheme applications that need to happen before you sign a contract. This checklist walks you through every stage from early planning to settlement day and beyond.
12 to 24 Months Before Buying
This is the planning and saving phase. The earlier you start, the more you can benefit from the FHSS tax advantage.
Start FHSS salary sacrifice
Arrange with your employer to salary sacrifice up to $15,000 per year into your super fund as concessional contributions. These are taxed at 15% instead of your marginal rate, giving you a meaningful tax saving. You can contribute up to $50,000 in total over multiple years.
Build your savings buffer
Alongside FHSS contributions, save in a high-interest savings account for upfront costs that FHSS cannot cover: stamp duty (if applicable), conveyancing fees, inspections, and moving costs.
Check your credit score
Request your free credit report from Equifax, Illion, or Experian. Fix any errors and pay down existing debts. Lenders will scrutinise your credit history during the loan application.
Research areas and set a budget
Look at property prices in your target areas. Use the HomeStack wizard to see which schemes you qualify for and how they affect your budget. Factor in commute times, amenities, and growth potential.
6 to 12 Months Before Buying
Time to shift from saving mode to action mode. This is when you get clear on numbers and start talking to professionals.
Get your FHSS determination from the ATO
Log in to myGov and request an FHSS determination through the ATO. This tells you the exact maximum amount you can release. You need this before you request the actual release of funds. Do not sign a contract before getting your determination.
Research which schemes you qualify for
Use the HomeStack calculator to check your eligibility for the FHBG, Help to Buy, FHOG, and stamp duty concessions. Remember: FHBG and Help to Buy are mutually exclusive, so you need to choose one.
Talk to a mortgage broker
A good broker can compare dozens of lenders, help you choose between FHBG and Help to Buy, and structure your loan application. They can also advise on which lenders participate in the FHBG scheme.
Get mortgage pre-approval
Apply for pre-approval (also called conditional approval) through your broker or lender. This gives you a clear budget and shows sellers you are a serious buyer. Pre-approval typically lasts 3 to 6 months.
Ready to Buy
You have your pre-approval, you know which schemes you qualify for, and you are actively looking. Here is what to do when you find the right property.
Apply for FHBG or Help to Buy through your lender
Your lender or broker will lodge the FHBG application with Housing Australia as part of your loan application. For Help to Buy, applications go through CBA or Bank Australia. Do this before making an offer.
Attend inspections and do your due diligence
Inspect the property thoroughly. For established homes, arrange a building inspection ($400 to $700) and pest inspection ($200 to $400). For apartments, get a strata report ($200 to $350). These can save you from costly surprises.
Have the contract reviewed by a conveyancer
Before you sign anything, get a licensed conveyancer or property solicitor to review the contract of sale. They will identify any unusual conditions, check for encumbrances, and advise on cooling-off periods.
Making an Offer
Once you have found the right property, it is time to move quickly but carefully.
Sign the contract of sale
Negotiate the price and conditions. Your conveyancer will handle the exchange of contracts. You will typically pay a deposit of 0.25% at exchange, with the balance of your deposit due at settlement.
Request FHSS release from the ATO
After signing the contract, request the ATO to release your FHSS funds from your super fund. Allow 15 to 20 business days for the money to reach your bank account. Time this carefully against your settlement date.
Apply for FHOG and stamp duty concession
Your lender will typically facilitate the First Home Owner Grant application and stamp duty concession claim at the same time as your formal loan application. Make sure you have all required documents ready.
After Exchange
Contracts are exchanged and you are locked in. Now it is about preparing for settlement.
Arrange home and contents insurance
Most lenders require building insurance from the date of exchange (or at least by settlement). If buying an apartment, building insurance is usually covered by the strata levy, but you will still want contents insurance.
Conduct the final inspection
In the days before settlement, do a final walk-through to make sure the property is in the same condition as when you signed the contract and any agreed repairs have been completed.
Prepare for settlement (30 to 90 days typical)
Your conveyancer and lender will coordinate the settlement process. Make sure all funds are in the right accounts and all paperwork is signed. Your conveyancer will confirm the settlement date and time.
Settlement Day
Settlement is handled by your conveyancer and the lender's representatives. Here is what happens:
- Your lender transfers the loan funds to the seller
- Stamp duty is paid (with your FHB concession applied)
- FHOG is applied, usually by reducing your loan amount
- Title is transferred into your name
- You get the keys, typically the same afternoon
You do not need to attend settlement in person. Your conveyancer handles everything and will notify you once it is complete.
After Settlement
Congratulations, you own a home. But there are a few final things to take care of:
- Move in within the required timeframe (typically 6 to 12 months depending on your state and which schemes you used)
- Lodge any remaining scheme paperwork, such as confirming occupancy for your FHOG
- Set up utilities, internet, and redirect your mail
- Keep records of your FHSS release for your next tax return (you may owe FHSS tax on the deemed earnings component)
- If using Help to Buy, be aware of the ongoing obligations around the government equity share
See which schemes you qualify for
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Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to buy a first home in Australia?
From the day you start saving to settlement, it typically takes 1 to 3 years. If you are using the FHSS, you will want 12 to 24 months of salary sacrifice. The purchase process itself, from signing a contract to settlement, is usually 30 to 90 days depending on your state and whether the property is new or established.
What order should I apply for first home buyer schemes?
Start FHSS salary sacrifice as early as possible (12-24 months before buying). Get your FHSS determination from the ATO before settlement. Apply for the FHBG or Help to Buy through your lender at the same time as your loan pre-approval. FHOG and stamp duty concessions are applied through your lender at the time of your loan application.
Do I need a solicitor or conveyancer?
Yes. A conveyancer or property solicitor handles the legal side of your purchase: reviewing the contract of sale, conducting property searches, managing settlement paperwork, and ensuring all stamp duty concessions and grants are properly applied. Expect to pay $1,500 to $3,000.
What happens if my FHSS funds have not arrived by settlement?
FHSS release takes 15 to 20 business days after you submit your release request to the ATO. If funds have not arrived by settlement, you may need to use other savings temporarily or negotiate a longer settlement period. Plan ahead and request the release well before you expect to need the funds.
Sources:
ATO - First Home Super Saver Scheme | Housing Australia - First Home Guarantee | Housing Australia - Help to Buy
Disclaimer: This information is general in nature and does not constitute financial, legal, or tax advice. Calculations are estimates only and may not reflect your exact circumstances. Eligibility criteria and dollar amounts may change without notice. Always verify with the relevant government authority, your mortgage broker, or a licensed financial adviser before making decisions.