Set a comfortable budget
Include purchase costs, moving, insurance, owners-corporation fees where applicable, rates, maintenance and a cash buffer. Avoid treating lender approval as a spending target.
Compare locations by daily life
Commute time, transport reliability, shops, schools where relevant, noise, parking, safety, future development and insurance exposure can matter more than postcode prestige.
Inspect the property, not just the styling
Natural light, storage, ventilation, waterproofing, cracks, roof condition, drainage, common-property condition and layout are more durable than staging.
Get independent advice
Use a conveyancer/solicitor and independent building/pest inspection where appropriate. For apartments, review owners-corporation records and special levies.
Think about resale before you buy
Even if you expect to stay for years, broad buyer appeal gives you more options if life changes.
Compare government assistance carefully
First-home-buyer grants, guarantees and stamp-duty settings can change and vary by state. Check the relevant government source at the time you buy.