7 Secrets to Save Tens of Thousands When Buying Your First Home

Real, actionable strategies to reduce your first home purchase costs and maximise long-term value.

Buying your first home is exciting — but it can also be overwhelming. Between hidden costs, fluctuating prices, and confusing incentives, many first-home buyers end up overpaying without even realising it.

Here are seven insider strategies smart buyers use to save tens of thousands — and make every dollar go further.

1. Lock in the Price Early

When you buy off-the-plan or during pre-construction, you lock in today’s price — protecting yourself from future cost hikes.

🏠 Example: If the builder raises prices by just 5% during construction, a $700,000 home could become $735,000.

By signing now, you’ve instantly saved $35,000.

Tip: Ask if your builder offers a fixed-price contract — it’s one of the simplest ways to safeguard your budget.

2. Combine Government Grants & Stamp Duty Savings

First-home buyers can often combine the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) with stamp duty exemptions — saving tens of thousands in one move.

💰 Example (Victoria): A buyer of a $650,000 off-the-plan home may receive a $10,000 FHOG and pay $0 stamp duty, totalling around $35,000 in savings.

Tip: Each state has different eligibility rules — check both the grant and the stamp duty thresholds before signing.

3. Time the Builder Promotions

Builders frequently run limited-time promotions like “Free Upgrades” or “Fixed Price Packages.” Acting during these windows can deliver thousands in added value.

🎯 Example: A promo might include free ducted air conditioning (worth $6,000) or kitchen upgrades (worth $4,000).

Waiting even a week could mean missing out on $10,000+ of bonuses.

Tip: Follow your preferred builders or developers on social media — they often announce promotions first there.

4. Choose Homes with Low Ongoing Costs

Two homes can have the same sticker price but very different long-term costs. Always calculate annual fees, maintenance, and energy efficiency.

📉 Example: A townhouse with $1,500/year body corporate vs. an apartment with $4,000/year = a $25,000 difference over 10 years.

Tip: Ask for a breakdown of body corp, council rates, and insurance costs before committing.

5. Focus on ROI-Driven Upgrades

Not all upgrades add value. Focus on improvements that increase rent or resale appeal — not just looks.

📊 Example: Upgrading to 40mm stone benchtops may cost $3,000 but add no rental value.

Installing a second split-system air conditioner, however, could raise rent by $20/week = $1,040/year in extra income.

Tip: When in doubt, prioritise comfort, climate control, and energy efficiency — tenants and buyers love them.

6. Buy in Early Land Release Stages

Developers often increase land prices with each release stage as demand grows. Buying early can lock in lower prices and stronger future equity.

🚜 Example: Stage 1 lots at $290,000 can jump to $330,000 by Stage 3 — a $40,000 gain before construction even begins.

Tip: Register your interest early in new estates to secure first-release pricing.

7. Avoid Middleman Fees

Traditional brokers often add hidden marketing or referral fees that inflate prices.

Working with developer-aligned professionals like BK Home Broker ensures you get direct pricing and zero unnecessary markups.

🤝 Example: Some brokers add $10,000–$15,000 in hidden commissions.

BK Home passes those savings directly to you — same home, lower price.

Final Thoughts

When you understand these 7 strategies, you’re not just buying your first home —

you’re making one of the smartest financial moves of your life.

At BK Home Broker, we help first-home buyers and investors secure high-quality homes below market value, with full access to grants, incentives, and exclusive pre-release opportunities.