Australia’s 5% Deposit Scheme has expanded. Eligible first-home buyers may be able to purchase with a deposit as low as 5% and avoid Lenders Mortgage Insurance. Places are uncapped and income caps have been removed, but buyer eligibility, property price caps, participating-lender rules and normal credit assessment still apply. That can lower the entry barrier. It does not mean the full cash target is only 5% of the property price. Before buying, separate four amounts: 1. Depo

Australia’s cash rate remains at 4.35%, with the next RBA rate update due on 11 August. Instead of spending the week predicting rates, use today to write down four numbers that directly affect household cash flow. Number one: your real housing cost Do not stop at the mortgage repayment. Average council rates, strata or body corporate fees, insurance and basic maintenance into a monthly figure. That shows how much of your income the home actually uses. Number two: next week’s

Australia’s housing market has cooled, some open homes are quieter and vendor discounting has increased. Buyers may have more time to compare, but a reduced asking price is not a reason to skip the homework. Make four checks at today’s inspection: 1. Inspect the property, not the styling Look for cracks, water marks, drainage, window condition, damp smells and heating or cooling issues. The furniture leaves; repair costs stay. 2. Ask about ownership costs Along with repayment