Many people overlook government-backed programs designed specifically to make buying easier.
: Before buying, prioritize your needs—such as school quality or commute time—and talk to locals to find hidden gems where property values are still reasonable. THRHA regional housing survey report 2024 EH affordable homes to buy
: Look for homes in "getting better" neighborhoods that might need cosmetic repairs. Buying an adequate home that needs minor work can be a much cheaper entry point than a turnkey property. Buying an adequate home that needs minor work
: Look for programs where the government guarantees a portion of the loan, allowing you to secure a mortgage with as little as a 5% deposit . 000 and $125
: Lenders often look for annual incomes between $100,000 and $125,000 to approve a mortgage for a $400,000 home, though this varies by lender and credit score. 2. Leverage Government Support Schemes
: In some regions, eligible first-time buyers can purchase new-build homes at a discount of at least 30% compared to market value.
Before you start browsing listings, you need a rock-solid understanding of what you can actually afford.