How Does the First Home Owner Grant Work?

By Deltos Finance on June 20, 2023
First-Home Buyers

While buying your first home is an exciting milestone, it can also be overwhelming.  That’s especially when you’re trying to understand and acquire various government incentives available to first-time home buyers. One such grant is the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG), which can provide significant financial assistance and make homeownership more affordable. Don’t fret, as we’ve got your back. Today, we’ll answer the question: how does the First Home Owner Grant work? We’ll show you how it can benefit you as a first-time homebuyer and how to apply for it.

First Things First, What Is the First Home Owner Grant?

The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a government incentive designed to support first-time home buyers in achieving their homeownership dreams. Offered by state or territory governments across Australia, this grant provides a one-time payment to eligible individuals or couples purchasing their first residential property.

The primary objective of the FHOG is to assist first-time home buyers with the initial costs of buying a property, making it more accessible and affordable. It offsets the effect of GST on your first home purchase. The grant amount and specific eligibility criteria may vary depending on the state or territory in which you plan to purchase your home.

Who Is Eligible for the First Home Owner Grant?

Eligibility for the FHOG depends on several factors, including your age, residency status and intention to live in the property. While the basic eligibility requirements are similar across states and territories, it’s essential to understand the specific criteria applicable in your area. Generally, to be eligible for the FHOG, you must:

  • Be a permanent resident or Australian citizen.
  • Be over 18 years old.
  • Be a first-time homebuyer.
  • Intend to live in the purchased property as your primary place of residence for a certain period.

Note that eligibility criteria, grant amounts and additional conditions may differ between states or territories. Planning to buy your first home in Hobart? To ensure accuracy and determine your eligibility for FHOG, you must consult with a reputable mortgage broker like Deltos Finance that offers first-home buyer assistance in Hobart.

First-Home Buyers Guide

So How Does the First Home Owner Grant Work?

Accessing the First Home Owner Grant involves several steps, from application to grant payment. Once you’ve identified your eligibility, you can proceed with the following:

  • Research and Gather Documentation: Start by researching the specific requirements and documentation needed for the FHOG application in your state or territory. Common documents include proof of identity, residency status and evidence of your first home purchase like a contract to build your new home or buy an off-the-plan dwelling. 
  • Lodge the Application: Complete the FHOG application form, ensuring that all information provided is accurate and up-to-date. Submit the application form to the relevant government department within the specified timeframe.
  • Assessment and Approval: Once your application is received, it will undergo a thorough assessment process. The government will review your eligibility and supporting documentation to determine if you meet the criteria for the grant. If approved, you will receive confirmation of your successful application.
  • Grant Payment: The timing and method of grant payment can vary between states and territories. In some cases, the grant may be available at settlement, providing a boost towards your deposit or reducing your upfront costs. Typically, the grant is paid directly to you or your nominated financial institution.

Is There Any Other Government Assistance for First-Home Buyers?

Besides the First Home Owner Grant, various other government incentives and concessions exist to support first-time home buyers. These include:

  • Stamp Duty Exemptions or Reductions: Some states or territories offer exemptions or reduced rates of stamp duty for eligible first-time home buyers, lightening the financial burden associated with property transactions.
  • First Home Loan Deposit Scheme: It is an initiative aimed at helping first-time home buyers secure a home loan with a deposit as low as 5% without having to pay for lender’s mortgage insurance (LMI). The National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC) may guarantee up to 15% of the property value if you acquire the home loan from a participating lender. 

Navigating the landscape of government incentives can be complex, as each program has specific requirements and limitations. Seeking advice from a knowledgeable mortgage broker like us is crucial to understanding the full range of incentives available and maximising the benefits specific to your situation.

Deltos Finance Is Here to Help

Government grants and incentives can allow you to buy your first home much sooner while making the home-buying process more affordable and convenient. For instance, the maximum FHOG on offer in Tasmania is $30,000. But with all the different government grants available for first-home buyers, it may be hard to keep track and know which ones you’re eligible for. This is where Deltos Finance steps in.

Our team will assess your situation to advise which grants you’re potentially eligible for and then help you apply for them. And if you need a first-home buyer loan, our brokers can help save you time and effort. We can shortlist the best lenders who can approve your loan. More importantly, we can help complete your application from submission to settlement. Contact us to get started. 

Enquire Now

Find Your Perfect Finance Solution

Let's discuss your finance needs. We’re here to help.

More posts from Deltos Finance

first home buyer loan

Ready to Buy Your First Home? Here’s How to Get Started with a First Home Buyer Loan

While the dream of owning a home is universal, facing the financial intricacies of a first home buyer loan can seem intimidating. That’s where we step in. Our mission? It is to simplify the process and guide you to ensure a seamless experience. For starters, here are some tried-and-true tips for applying for a first …

Ready to Buy Your First Home? Here’s How to Get Started with a First Home Buyer Loan Read More »

how do construction loans work when you own the land

How Do Construction Loans Work When You Own the Land?

We’ve all heard the adage, “Location, location, location!” And for many homeowners, having the perfect piece of land is the dream foundation for building their ideal house. But once you have that pristine parcel, the next question beckons: how do construction loans work when you own the land, especially in Australia? Let’s unravel the intricacies …

How Do Construction Loans Work When You Own the Land? Read More »

construction loans

Your Building Partner: How a Construction Loan Broker Amplifies Your Borrowing Capacity

Standing on an empty plot, you can easily visualise the arches, corridors and rooms of your future home. Yet, as inspiring as these visions are, they require a solid financial foundation to come to life. This is where a construction loan broker becomes not just an ally but also a pivotal part of your journey. …

Your Building Partner: How a Construction Loan Broker Amplifies Your Borrowing Capacity Read More »

first home buyer loans

Maximising Your Borrowing Capacity and Honing Your Budget: Tips for First-Time Homebuyers

Imagine going on a trek through uncharted territory, where every twist and turn holds new discoveries. That’s the world of homeownership for a first-timer. The thrill of finding the perfect house, paired with the challenge of deciphering mortgage jargon, can be a dynamic mix. Just as every explorer needs a reliable map, we’re here to …

Maximising Your Borrowing Capacity and Honing Your Budget: Tips for First-Time Homebuyers Read More »

refinancing home loans

Can I Refinance My Home Loan with Bad Credit?

Wondering if you can refinance your home loan with bad credit in Australia? You’re not alone. When faced with the challenge of a less-than-ideal credit score, many Australians feel daunted by the refinancing process. Deltos Finance, the trusted name among mortgage brokers in Hobart, is here to shed light on this often-misunderstood topic. Contrary to …

Can I Refinance My Home Loan with Bad Credit? Read More »

minimum deposit for a house

How Much Is the Optimal Home Loan Deposit Amount for Your Dream Home?

Picture this: you’ve found the perfect home — that one property that ticks all your boxes and feels like it’s made for you. The excitement of owning your dream home is palpable. However, there’s a significant financial hurdle to overcome: the home loan deposit. How much should it be? What’s the optimal amount that won’t …

How Much Is the Optimal Home Loan Deposit Amount for Your Dream Home? Read More »

hobart real estate

Hobart Real Estate: Discovering the Allure of Buying a House in This Thriving City

Hobart, Tasmania’s picturesque capital, is a city that effortlessly blends natural beauty and cultural richness with a thriving real estate market. No wonder it has attracted a lot of new residents in recent years. In fact, between 2016 and 2021, around 30% of those who moved within Australia picked Hobart as the perfect spot for …

Hobart Real Estate: Discovering the Allure of Buying a House in This Thriving City Read More »

mortgage broker hobart

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Mortgage Broker in Hobart

Your journey to homeownership is undoubtedly an exciting chapter in life, but it often comes with complex financial decisions. Fortunately, a trusted expert by your side can make all the difference. That’s especially true if you want to explore a local property market like Hobart in Tasmania, Australia. But how do you find the best …

The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Mortgage Broker in Hobart Read More »

real estate investing

Investing in Property in Australia: Building Wealth Through Real Estate

Property ownership has long been referred to as the Great Australian Dream, but in today’s world, it’s more than just about buying your dream home. Many investors use real estate investments as a pathway to building wealth. But how do you exactly carve your path to wealth through real estate? Today, we’ll explore the pros …

Investing in Property in Australia: Building Wealth Through Real Estate Read More »

mortgage broker hobart

The Benefits of Using a Mortgage Broker: Expert Guidance at Your Fingertips

Imagine standing at the threshold of homeownership, facing a complex web of mortgage options, lenders and interest rates. Should you choose variable or fixed-rate loans? Do you need added features like an offset account or redraw facility? Which is more suitable for you: a home loan or a construction loan? It’s easy to feel overwhelmed, …

The Benefits of Using a Mortgage Broker: Expert Guidance at Your Fingertips Read More »