My First Home Buyer Mentor

P&P Studios

Hi I'm Nicola! I wanted to make this podcast to share my journey of buying my first home! I'm so lucky to have a Dad with tons of property experience as my mentor. I want to share all the ups and downs of my journey and every lesson I learn from dad with you guys! I hope my experiences helps you get into your first home, Wish me luck getting into mine first home 🙂 If you have any questions you want to ask on the show please send them in and if you want to talk with my dad directly as a broker feel free to send an email through. Chat with John about how much you can borrow johnk@financelab.com.au   Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalized advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution

  1. First Home: Adding Value through Renovation - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    07/02/2025

    First Home: Adding Value through Renovation - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    First Home: Adding Value through Renovation      Thinking about buying your first home but unsure whether to go for a new build or take on a fixer-upper?   Join hosts Nicola and John Kefalianos in this insightful episode as they explore the world of home renovation for first-time buyers. They discuss the potential of buying an older property, adding value through renovations, and the financial benefits that come with it.   John shares his extensive experience in property development, offering practical tips on how to identify renovation opportunities and navigate the financing process.   Whether you're considering your first home or looking to build equity, this episode is packed with valuable advice on how to make smart property decisions.   Tune in to learn how to turn a run-down house into your dream home while maximising your investment potential!     Check out the FinanceLab calculator here: https://www.financelab.com.au/calculators-extra-repayments/   Chat with John about how much you can borrow: johnk@financelab.com.au   Finance Lab: https://www.financelab.com.au/     Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalised advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    10 min
  2. Your First Home in Adelaide - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    06/25/2025

    Your First Home in Adelaide - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    Your First Home in Adelaide   Are you curious about the best suburbs for first home buyers in Adelaide? In this episode of their podcast, hosts Nicola and John Kefalianos explore the top locations where buyers on a budget can get their foot in the property market. With a deposit as low as $42,000, they uncover three affordable suburbs that could help make homeownership a reality in 2025.   From the charming suburb of Kurralta Park to the up-and-coming area of Keswick, and the more spacious options in Munno Para, they provide valuable insights into what potential buyers can expect in terms of pricing and income requirements.   Join Nicola and John as they guide first home buyers through the possibilities of owning a home in Adelaide, making the dream of homeownership more achievable than ever.   Don't miss out on their expert tips and advice, and tune in to this episode!       Check out the FinanceLab calculator here: https://www.financelab.com.au/calculators-extra-repayments/   Chat with John about how much you can borrow: johnk@financelab.com.au   Finance Lab: https://www.financelab.com.au/         Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalised advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6 min
  3. Buying Your First Home in Melbourne - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    06/18/2025

    Buying Your First Home in Melbourne - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    Buying Your First Home in Melbourne   Where in Melbourne can you buy your first home with a deposit as low as $21,000?   In this episode, Nicola and John Kefalianos explore three suburbs that could be the unexpected key to cracking the property market in 2025 — including one just 4km from the CBD. If you're a first home buyer who thought property was out of reach, this could change your perspective.   They break down real listings — comparing apartment versus house options — and explain the exact deposit, income and loan amounts needed to get started. From the impact of Victoria’s government guarantee scheme to bait pricing strategies, they walk you through all the essentials.   With clear insights, practical examples, and a positive outlook for first home buyers, Nicola and John prove it's still very possible to get on the property ladder — even in Melbourne. If you're earning over $60,000 and have saved even a modest deposit, this is a must-watch.       Check out the FinanceLab calculator here: https://www.financelab.com.au/calculators-extra-repayments/     Chat with John about how much you can borrow: johnk@financelab.com.au   Finance Lab: https://www.financelab.com.au/       Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalised advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    10 min
  4. Top 3 First Home in Brisbane with a $23,000 Deposit - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    06/11/2025

    Top 3 First Home in Brisbane with a $23,000 Deposit - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    Top 3 First Home in Brisbane with a $23,000 Deposit     Where in Brisbane can you buy your first home with a deposit as low as $23,000?   In this episode, Nicola and John Kefalianos uncover three budget-friendly suburbs where first home buyers can break into the market without breaking the bank. They explore real property examples that are well-located, move-in ready, and full of future potential.   They break down the key numbers: purchase prices, deposit amounts, income requirements, and how to maximise the benefits of Queensland’s no stamp duty policy for first home buyers. Whether you're buying solo or as a couple, they show how achievable homeownership can be with the right planning and approach.   If you're looking to make your move in 2025, this episode is packed with timely advice, clear insights, and encouragement to help you take that first step. Don’t miss it!     Check out the FinanceLab calculator here: https://www.financelab.com.au/calculators-extra-repayments/     Chat with John about how much you can borrow: johnk@financelab.com.au   Finance Lab: https://www.financelab.com.au/       Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalised advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    5 min
  5. The One Trick That Could Halve Your Mortgage Term - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    06/04/2025

    The One Trick That Could Halve Your Mortgage Term - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    The One Trick That Could Halve Your Mortgage Term    Looking for ways to pay off your mortgage faster and save thousands in interest? In this episode, Nicola and John Kefalianos explore simple yet effective strategies that can dramatically reduce your home loan term. They challenge the idea that you need major lifestyle changes to make a difference—sometimes, just an extra $50 a week can shave years off your mortgage.   John, a property investor and mortgage broker, explains how small, consistent additional repayments can lead to big financial wins over time. He walks through real-life scenarios, such as how a first home buyer with a $475,000 loan can significantly cut down both interest paid and loan duration by contributing an extra $50 to $265 weekly.   The duo also highlights why keeping repayments high when interest rates drop can be a smart move. They offer practical tips on generating extra cash, like renting out a spare room or trimming back on non-essential expenses, that can be redirected into your mortgage.   Ready to fast-track your journey to financial freedom? Tune in now to hear Nicola and John’s expert tips and learn how small sacrifices today can lead to big rewards tomorrow.   Check out the FinanceLab calculator here:  https://www.financelab.com.au/calculators-extra-repayments/   Chat with John about how much you can borrow: johnk@financelab.com.au   Finance Lab: https://www.financelab.com.au/       Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalised advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution.   See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    6 min
  6. Breaking Down the First Home Guarantee Scheme - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    05/28/2025

    Breaking Down the First Home Guarantee Scheme - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    Breaking Down the First Home Guarantee Scheme   Are you holding off on buying your first home because you think you need a 20% deposit? In this enlightening episode, Nicola and John Kefalianos bust that myth and reveal how you could get into the property market with as little as a 5% deposit—thanks to the First Home Buyers Guarantee Scheme and other government incentives.   They break down the varying property purchase thresholds across Australia, discuss the implications of stamp duty, and provide real-life examples to illustrate how close you might be to owning your first home. Nicola shares her personal savings journey, revealing how she is just a step away from her goal.   Ready to take your first step toward owning a home? Tune in now and discover how acting sooner could save you money and help you get ahead in the property market.   Chat with John about how much you can borrow: johnk@financelab.com.au   Finance Lab: https://www.financelab.com.au/       Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalised advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    10 min
  7. How Renting a Room Can Boost Your Home Loan Capacity - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    05/14/2025

    How Renting a Room Can Boost Your Home Loan Capacity - With John and Nicola Kefalianos

    How Renting a Room Can Boost Your Home Loan Capacity     Thinking about buying your first home but not sure how recent changes might affect you?   In this episode of their podcast, Nicola and John Kefalianos discuss exciting new policies from the Commonwealth Bank aimed at helping first home buyers enter the property market.   They explain how renting out a spare room can significantly increase borrowing capacity, allowing individuals to borrow an additional $50,000 by simply renting a room for $150 a week.   John elaborates on the benefits of HECS debt management and how to reduce the buffer rate from 3% to 1%, leading to a substantial increase in borrowing potential. They also touch on the recent government promise to reduce HECS debts by 20%, further aiding first home buyers.   Watch this episode for practical advice and the latest financial strategies to help you succeed in today’s property market.     Chat with John about how much you can borrow: johnk@financelab.com.au   Finance Lab: https://www.financelab.com.au/       Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalised advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    8 min

About

Hi I'm Nicola! I wanted to make this podcast to share my journey of buying my first home! I'm so lucky to have a Dad with tons of property experience as my mentor. I want to share all the ups and downs of my journey and every lesson I learn from dad with you guys! I hope my experiences helps you get into your first home, Wish me luck getting into mine first home 🙂 If you have any questions you want to ask on the show please send them in and if you want to talk with my dad directly as a broker feel free to send an email through. Chat with John about how much you can borrow johnk@financelab.com.au   Disclaimer: This podcast provides general information only and is not legal, financial, or professional advice. Listeners should seek personalized advice from licensed professionals for their individual circumstances. The hosts and guests are not liable for actions taken based on this content. Opinions expressed are those of the hosts and guests, not any official institution