30/06/2026
The first home deposit hurdle is smaller than you think.
The magic number isn't always 20%.
One of the biggest myths stopping first home buyers is the belief you need a 20% deposit before you can even think about buying.
You don't.
There are several ways into the market with a lot less.
5% deposit - via the Government's First Home Guarantee Scheme (with no Lenders Mortgage Insurance)
2% deposit - for eligible single parents via the Family Home Guarantee
Family Pledge Loan - where your parents' equity substitutes for part of your deposit.
The 20% figure exists because it's the threshold that avoids Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). A cost that protects the lender, not you, and can add thousands to your loan.
But with the right structure, you can avoid LMI without a 20% deposit.
The key word is structure.
The deposit is just one piece.
How the loan is put together matters just as much.
At Regional Finance, we have first home loan experts happy to guide you through your options and find the right path for your situation.
It's worth a conversation. Call us on 1800 734 346.
The small print: This is for information purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation or circumstances. Regional Finance Solutions Pty Ltd trading as Regional Finance, Australian Credit Licence 484980.