Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast

Veronica Morgan & Meighan Wells
Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast

Your First Home Buyer Guide. Get there without missing a step.

  1. When Waiting for First Home Buyer Incentives Could Cost You More

    2 DAYS AGO

    When Waiting for First Home Buyer Incentives Could Cost You More

    Think that waiting for a first home buyer grant is the smart move? Think again. In this episode of Your First Home Buyer Guide, we uncover how waiting for the “perfect” government incentive can set you back by tens of thousands of dollars. You’ll hear real examples of buyers who hesitated and ended up paying more, or missing out entirely, because they were banking on a scheme that never came… or came too late. We dive deep into what we call the “Incentive Illusion”—the belief that waiting for grants will give you an edge. Spoiler: They often do the opposite. With demand surges, tighter eligibility criteria, and market shifts, waiting could push your dream property out of reach. More importantly, you’ll learn why true buying power doesn’t come from a government handout—it comes from being prepared, informed, and in control of your numbers. If you're ready to ditch the hype and make smarter decisions, this one’s for you. Tune in and get clear on what to focus on, what to ignore, and how to get out of “decision limbo” for good. Head to homebuyeracademy.com.au to learn more about our step-by-step course that’s helping first home buyers across Australia move faster—and buy better.   Episode Highlights: Welcome [00:00] First Home Buyer Incentives and Market Risks [00:08] Introduction to the PACE System [01:41] Impact of Incentives on Property Prices [03:19] Opportunity Costs and Emotional Impact [07:27] Alternatives to Waiting for Incentives [10:27]   Resources: Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/  Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourse Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f   If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey!   See you on the inside, Veronica & Meighan See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    20 min
  2. When the Bank of Mum and Dad Goes Horribly Wrong

    1 JUL

    When the Bank of Mum and Dad Goes Horribly Wrong

    Is getting help from your parents really the golden ticket into the property market or could it actually be setting you up for financial trouble? In this episode, we break down the real risks of the Bank of Mum and Dad, especially for first home buyers who aren’t financially prepared to take on home ownership. We talk about what happens when buyers skip key money lessons; like budgeting, tracking expenses, and preparing for ongoing costs, simply because they’ve had a leg-up from family. The data is sobering: first home buyers who get parental help are three times more likely to default on their loans in the first three years. That stat alone should make you think twice about rushing in. Beyond finances, there are emotional strings and expectations that often come with family support. Whether it’s influence over what you buy or where you live, or unclear repayment terms, these dynamics can lead to stress and conflict if not handled properly. That’s why we share tips on how to approach these conversations with clarity and boundaries. This episode is packed with practical advice to help you make smarter decisions around family support. We explore how to build financial discipline, structure repayment agreements, and use parental help as a tool, not a crutch. If you’re considering accepting help, or already have, don’t miss this honest conversation about the often-overlooked risks of the Bank of Mum and Dad and how to avoid falling into them. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:51 - BOMAD is now the fifth-largest lender 03:40 - The danger of skipping the financial learning curve 07:18 - Why parental help increases the risk of loan default 08:55 - Building financial habits before borrowing 12:27 - Hidden costs first-time buyers forget 13:26 - How family help can influence buying decisions 15:49 - A smarter way to structure parental help 19:10 - Use parental help to increase your deposit, not your budget 21:24 - Be realistic about interest rate changes 22:11 - How to make the most of a rare privilege Course Details: The First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It's the next best thing to having your own buyer's agent. With our expert guidance, you'll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourse Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    24 min
  3. Should You Lock in Your Forever Home Now — or Wait?

    24 JUN

    Should You Lock in Your Forever Home Now — or Wait?

    Should I buy my forever home now, even if I’m not quite ready for it yet? That’s the question we’re unpacking in this episode. We’ve come across a few first home buyers who are in the rare position of being able to afford more than they need, and it’s worth talking about. Because while the budget might say “forever home,” the lifestyle might be saying, “not just yet.” We talk through the big trade-offs: the costs of upgrading later, the benefits of locking in today’s prices, and the risk of buying something that doesn’t really work for you right now. We’ve seen buyers try to plan five or ten years ahead, and sometimes get it wrong. So we’re sharing the questions you need to ask yourself before making a call: should I buy my forever home if I might not live in it for years? What would future-me want? And will this decision give me more flexibility or less? We also cover rentvesting, tax considerations, and the emotional side of home buying, because let’s face it, excitement and FOMO can be sneaky decision drivers. This episode isn’t about telling you what to do, it’s about helping you think it through properly, with a bit of strategy and some guidance from people who’ve seen it all before. If you’ve been wondering, should I buy my forever home now, this one’s for you. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer but there is a smarter way to figure it out. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:00 - Defining the “forever home” vs. “first home” mindset 04:10 - Buying now for a future lifestyle: projecting 5 to 10 years ahead 05:30 - Weighing the cost of upgrading later 07:50 - Capital growth and locking in today’s prices 10:00 - The rentvesting alternative 13:10 - Risks of lifestyle misalignment 16:30 - Tax and insurance considerations for rentvesting 18:20 - Emotional vs. strategic buying 20:00 - Why you need a strategic plan and expert advice 21:30 - Questions to ask before buying your forever home early Course Details: The First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It's the next best thing to having your own buyer's agent. With our expert guidance, you'll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourse Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    25 min
  4. Bidding at Auction - The Do’s and Don’ts

    17 JUN

    Bidding at Auction - The Do’s and Don’ts

    If you’re planning to buy in an area where auctions are common, then you need to understand how to win a property auction. Too many buyers show up on the day without a game plan, and we’ve seen it all. From people freezing up, bidding too late, or walking away from a property they actually wanted, just because they didn’t know how to handle the pressure. In this episode, we’re sharing the do’s and don’ts of auction day. We talk about the psychology behind the bidding process, what makes people lose control, and why staying calm and knowing your walk-away price is non-negotiable. There’s strategy involved, and if you don’t know it, you could end up making an expensive mistake. We’ll also walk you through how to win a property auction by showing you what prep actually looks like, beyond just getting your finances sorted. We cover how to read the auctioneer, spot bait pricing, and avoid getting psyched out by other bidders. It’s all about being ready before the auction even begins. At the end of the day, buying at auction doesn’t have to be terrifying. When you know how to win a property auction and you understand the rules, the pace, and the tactics; you’re not just crossing your fingers and hoping. You’re in control. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 04:08 - Why do auctions freak people out? 07:15 - Auction DOs 10:15 - Auction DON’Ts Course Details: The First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It's the next best thing to having your own buyer's agent. With our expert guidance, you'll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourse Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    17 min
  5. 10 Red Flags in a Building & Pest Report (And What They Actually Mean)

    10 JUN

    10 Red Flags in a Building & Pest Report (And What They Actually Mean)

    Building and pest reports are one of those things that can completely spook a first home buyer, and we’ve seen it happen time and time again. You get the report back, and suddenly it feels like everything’s falling apart. But here’s what we’ve learned after decades in the business: red flags in property inspections are only red flags if you don’t know how to interpret them. In this episode, we walk you through ten of the most common issues that pop up in these reports; moisture readings, termite activity, cracking walls, dodgy drainage, even tree roots, and explain what they actually mean. We’re not here to downplay serious problems, but we are here to help you sort out what’s a real concern and what just sounds scary. We’ve seen a lot over the years, and we share examples from properties we’ve inspected ourselves, like the time a simple ag drain fixed what sounded like a major issue, or when a historic termite note turned out to be nothing worth losing sleep over. The point is, red flags in property inspections can be valuable if you know how to read them properly. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, you’re not alone, but you also don’t have to panic. This episode will give you the tools to ask the right questions, have better conversations with your inspector, and make smart, confident decisions about your future home. Red flags in property inspections? We’ve got you covered. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:00 - Where building & pest fits into the buying process 03:14 - Red Flag #1: High moisture readings 04:30 - Red Flag #2: Evidence of termite activity 06:31 - Red Flag #3: Cracking in walls 08:46 - Red Flag #4: Displaced or damaged roof tiles 09:51 - Red Flag #5: Inadequate drainage 11:18 - Red Flag #6: Subfloor ventilation problems 12:49 - Red Flag #7: Dampness in bathrooms 13:59 - Red Flag #8: Tree roots near the structure 15:24 - Red Flag #9: Timber decay or fungal growth 16:09 - Red Flag #10: Safety hazards or non-compliant structures Course Details: The First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It's the next best thing to having your own buyer's agent. With our expert guidance, you'll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheFirstHomeBuyerCourse Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    21 min
  6. Prepare for Property Settlement Day Like a Pro

    3 JUN

    Prepare for Property Settlement Day Like a Pro

    What could possibly go wrong on the day you’re supposed to finally get the keys to your new home? More than you think. In this episode, we'll walk you through what really happens on settlement day, and why you absolutely need to be prepared. This is the final step in your buying journey, and trust us, it’s not always smooth sailing. We’ve seen it all; moving trucks sitting in driveways, funds not showing up on time, damage to the property, missing paperwork, and sellers who’ve left behind junk (or worse, taken things they weren’t supposed to). So in this episode, we’re sharing exactly how to prepare for property settlement day so you don’t end up scrambling or paying for someone else’s mess. You’ll hear our practical tips; things like staying in close contact with your conveyancer, double checking with your lender, doing that final inspection properly (not just a walk-through), and building in a buffer just in case things don’t go to plan. We’re also talking about what to do if something does go pear-shaped, because let’s face it, sometimes it does. We want you to feel confident and ready, not blindsided. Knowing how to prepare for property settlement day will help you avoid unnecessary stress, extra costs, and those last-minute surprises that turn an exciting day into a nightmare. So pop on those practical pants and let’s make sure you’re set up for success. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 03:47 - What is settlement day and why does it matter? 04:41 - Real stories of settlement day gone wrong and common issues that delay settlement 08:38 - 5 tips to prepare for a smooth property settlement day 12:43 - What to do if things go pear-shaped Course Details: Your First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    17 min
  7. Inside a Real Coaching Call That Transforms First Home Buyers

    27 MAY

    Inside a Real Coaching Call That Transforms First Home Buyers

    Buying your first home can feel like a lot, especially when you’re trying to figure it all out on your own. In this episode, we take you inside a real coaching session with one of our students who’s in the thick of it, asking smart questions and facing some pretty common challenges. This is exactly the kind of conversation we have each week inside our program, and we’re sharing it because we know so many of you will relate. We go through the nitty-gritties; a townhouse with a long-term tenant, competing offers, and the pressure to move fast. We talk about how to know if a property is worth your money, how to factor in delays if you can’t move in straight away, and why doing your homework matters before you even step inside. These home buying tips come from decades of experience, and we’re sharing them with no fluff. We also get into the emotional side, because yes, buying a home is emotional. It’s about balancing your gut feel with a clear, step-by-step process that protects you from making expensive mistakes. That’s where the right guidance makes all the difference. If you’re not sure what due diligence even means, when to request a contract, or how to compete with other buyers who seem to move faster, this is the episode to tune in to. You’ll walk away with practical home buying tips you can actually use, and a better understanding of how to approach your next property with confidence. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 02:19 - Reviewing a first home buyer’s property checklist 03:09 - Concerns about negative cash flow and existing tenants 05:24 - Lessons from a missed offer and how to improve next time 07:17 - Analysing floor plans and outdoor space in real time 08:51 - Sunlight, orientation, and what really matters 13:53 - Is it worth buying a property you can’t move into yet? 16:59 - Why CoreLogic isn’t enough to set your offer price 19:26 - Competing with experienced buyers and investors 22:48 - Doing due diligence when time is tight 25:55 - Can you still change the contract during cooling-off? 27:10 - What to check before even inspecting a property 29:36 - Understanding offer processes and agent strategies 32:09 - Managing emotions during the buying process 33:24 - How some buyers make fast decisions with confidence 35:44 - When paying more upfront might still make sense 41:10 - Timing the market: when to expect more listings 45:03 - When to get a contract reviewed (and when not to) Course Details: Your First Home Buyer Course is our Step-By-Step, No BS Guide to Every Stage of The Home Buying Process – It’s the next best thing to having your own buyer’s agent. With our expert guidance, you’ll know what to do at every step along the way. Become a home owner faster and easier. Click here: https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    49 min
  8. Grants, Schemes & Stamp Duty: The Costly Mistake First Home Buyers Keep Making

    20 MAY

    Grants, Schemes & Stamp Duty: The Costly Mistake First Home Buyers Keep Making

    Are you making your whole property decision just to avoid paying stamp duty? We see this all the time, and honestly, it could cost you far more than you think in the long run. In this episode, we’re joined by mortgage broker Andrew Wheatley to talk about the one big mistake we keep seeing first home buyers make: getting stuck on staying under the grant or concession thresholds. Andrew works with buyers every day and has a really practical way of helping people step back and look at the bigger picture, not just what they might save today, but what that decision could mean for their future wealth and lifestyle. We go through what those thresholds actually mean, how much you’re really saving (or missing out on), and why some people end up stuck looking for months just because they didn’t realise they could stretch a little further without taking on more risk. It’s not about spending more just for the sake of it, it’s about making sure you understand all your options and make a decision that sets you up for the long term. If you’re a first home buyer trying to make sense of all the government schemes, this chat will help you clear the noise and focus on what really matters, buying a quality asset that grows with you. Episode Highlights: 00:00 - Introduction 03:01 - Who is Andrew Wheatley? 04:07 - What’s the biggest trap buyers fall into with stamp duty concessions? 09:13 - Should you explore options above the scheme threshold? 11:25 - Why so many first home buyers are competing at the same price point 14:04 - How much more do you really pay if you go over the threshold? 19:09 - What’s the smarter way to set your property budget? 21:54 - Why being “ready” matters more than being fast 23:26 - Is it bad advice to avoid stretching your budget on your first home? 29:50 - Why do buyers fixate on free money from the government? 31:37 - Can chasing a grant cost you capital growth? 32:52 - Should your first home also be a good investment? 39:12 - What are Andrew’s top tips for first home buyers? 45:04 - What’s one thing Andrew wishes he knew as a first home buyer? About Our Guest: Andrew Wheatley is the founder and lead mortgage broker at Wheatley Finance, based in Yarraville, Victoria. With over 20 years of experience in the finance industry, Andrew is passionate about helping Australians navigate the complexities of home loans and property finance. His dedication to client success has earned him recognition, including the Finance Brokers Association of Australia’s (FBAA) Victoria Finance Broker of the Year Award in both 2021 and 2022. Andrew established Wheatley Finance to empower clients with tailored financial solutions, aiming to shift the balance of power from banks to borrowers. He is known for his client-centric approach and commitment to providing clear, honest advice to help individuals achieve their homeownership goals. Connect with Andrew Wheatley: Website https://www.wheatleyfinance.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-wheatley/ Resources: FREE MINI COURSE: How to price property like a professional https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/freecourse Meet our recommended mortgage brokers at Home Buyer Academy https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/brokers Visit our website https://www.homebuyeracademy.com.au/ Join our Facebook Group to get access to free monthly live Q&A sessions https://www.facebook.com/groups/yourfirsthomebuyerguideaustralia Learn how to buy property without making a mistake with our ultimate 10-step online course for first time home buyers https://homebuyeracademy.com.au/YFHBG If you have any questions or would like to be featured on our show, contact us at: Your First Home Buyer Guide Podcast support@homebuyeracademy.com.au Looking for a Sydney Buyers Agent? https://www.gooddeeds.com.au Work with Veronica: https://www.veronicamorgan.com.au Looking for a Brisbane Buyers Agent? https://www.propertypursuit.com.au/ Work with Meighan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanwells/ If you enjoyed today’s podcast, don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and share the show! There’s more to come, so we hope to have you along with us on this journey! Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@YourFirstHomeBuyerGuidePodcast Subscribe on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/ph/podcast/your-first-home-buyer-guide-podcast/id1544701825 Subscribe on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7GyrfXoqvDxjqNRv40NVQs?si=7c8bc4362fab421f See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    49 min
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