First Home Buyers Guide | Next Chapter Financial Group

How we can help

Helping First Home Buyers in Newtown and Greater Geelong

Buying your first home is one of the biggest financial steps you will ever take, and having the right support beside you makes all the difference. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we work with first home buyers across Newtown and greater Geelong every day, helping them understand their home loan options, work through first home buyer eligibility requirements, and put together a plan that suits their situation.

The process of applying for a first home loan involves more moving parts than most people expect. From understanding your first home buyer budget and saving your deposit, to comparing a fixed interest rate against a variable interest rate, to working out whether features like an offset account or redraw facility suit your needs, there is a lot to consider. That is where our team comes in. We take the time to explain each step clearly, so you feel confident about the decisions you are making.

Next Chapter Financial Group has deep roots in the Geelong community. We understand the local property market, the types of homes first home buyers are looking for, and the real costs involved in getting into your first property. Whether you are looking at an established home in Newtown or a new build further out, we can help you understand what is available and what you may be eligible for.

First home buyers in Victoria may have access to a range of support measures, including the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) of $10,000 on new homes valued up to $750,000, as well as first home buyer stamp duty concessions that provide a full duty exemption on properties valued up to $600,000 and a sliding scale concession on properties valued between $600,001 and $750,000. These concessions apply to both new and established homes where the property will be your principal place of residence.

At the federal level, the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme allows eligible first home buyers to purchase with as little as a 5% deposit, with Housing Australia guaranteeing the difference up to 20% of the property value. This means no Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI) is payable, which can represent a significant saving. In Victoria, the property price cap under this scheme is $950,000 for capital city and regional centres, and $650,000 for other areas. There are no income caps and no annual place limits under this scheme as it currently stands.

For buyers who have been making voluntary contributions to their superannuation, the First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSS) may allow you to release up to $50,000 in eligible contributions toward your deposit. This can be a useful tool for first home buyers who have been building savings inside super, though it is important to obtain a determination from the Australian Taxation Office before signing a purchase contract.

Low deposit options are available for first home buyers who have not yet reached the traditional 20% deposit threshold. Whether you are working with a 5% deposit, a 10% deposit, or even a gift deposit from a family member, Next Chapter Financial Group can help you understand which lenders and loan structures may suit your circumstances. We work with a broad panel of lenders and can compare home loan options across the market to find something that fits.

If you are considering a guarantor loan arrangement, where a family member uses equity in their own property to support your application, our team can walk you through how that works and what it means for everyone involved. We can also explain the difference between pre-approval and full approval, and help you prepare a solid first home loan application that gives you the best chance of moving forward with confidence.

Our Lending Process

How It Works

At Next Chapter Financial Group, we make the finance and mortgage process straightforward and stress-free. Here is how we work with you from start to finish.

Step 1: Get in Touch
The first step is a simple conversation. Reach out to our team in Geelong West by phone, email, or through our website. We will find a time that suits you, whether that is in person, over the phone, or via video call.

Step 2: Initial Consultation
We sit down with you to understand your situation, goals, and timeline. Whether you are buying your first home, refinancing, or investing, this is your chance to ask questions and for us to learn what matters most to you.

Step 3: Review Your Financial Position
We take a close look at your income, expenses, assets, and liabilities. This helps us get a clear picture of your borrowing capacity and identify the right options for your circumstances.

Step 4: Research and Compare
Using our access to a wide panel of lenders, we research and compare loan products on your behalf. We look at interest rates, fees, features, and flexibility to find a solution that fits your needs, not just the numbers.

Step 5: Present Your Options
We present you with a shortlist of suitable loan options in plain language. No jargon, no pressure. We walk you through the pros and cons of each so you can make a confident, informed decision.

Step 6: Application and Approval
Once you choose a loan, we handle the paperwork and manage the application process from start to finish. We liaise with the lender on your behalf, keep you updated at every stage, and work to get your approval as smoothly and quickly as possible.

Step 7: Settlement and Beyond
When your loan settles, our job is not done. We stay in touch to make sure your loan continues to work for you. As your life changes, we are here to review your finance and help you take the next step forward.

Next Chapter Financial Group broker discussing first home buyer grants and home loan options with a client in Geelong

A little About Us

Who We Are

Next Chapter Financial Group is a Geelong-based finance and mortgage broking business dedicated to helping everyday Australians make smart, confident decisions about their money.

Located in Geelong West and proudly serving clients across Newtown and the greater Geelong region, we work with a wide range of borrowers, from first home buyers taking their first big step, to homeowners looking to refinance, to investors building their portfolio.

We believe that getting the right finance should not be complicated or overwhelming. That is why we take the time to understand your situation, explain your options in plain language, and guide you through every stage of the process with care and honesty.

As mortgage brokers, we have access to a broad panel of lenders, which means we can search the market on your behalf and find a loan that suits your needs, rather than pushing a single product or lender. Our loyalty is to you, not the banks.

At Next Chapter Financial Group, we are in the business of helping people move forward. Whether you are buying your first home, upgrading, refinancing, or investing, we are here to help you write the next chapter of your financial story.

Get in touch with our team today and find out how we can help you take the next step.

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What Our Clients Say

Real Stories, Real Results

First home buyers across Newtown and greater Geelong trust Next Chapter Financial Group to guide them through one of the most important financial decisions of their lives. Here is what some of them have to say about working with our team.

Awesome experience with Tom and Next Chapter! I initially reached out to see if refinancing my owner-occupied and investment properties made sense. Even though I already had an okay rate dealing directly with the bank, Tom to my suprise quickly secured a much better rate with another lender and added an offset account I didn't have before. Working with a broker was a far better experience—it was clear Tom genuinely wanted the best outcome for me. He made the entire process quick and easy. I highly recommend Tom and the team if you need a loan.

Luís Carlos Sousa Tavares

Sophie and Tom have been absolutely amazing helping us through a purchase and a move. They have truly gone above and beyond to make sure we had a range of options to consider, had the right advice, and supported us to get what we were looking for. They're responsive, and overall they're lovely people to boot. Wouldn't hesitate to recommend.

Jack Eddie

Would like to thank Wayne & his team at Chapter Finance Their service has been impeccable and can give them the highest recommendation possible Any new clients for refinancing will be extremely happy with their service Thanks again Wayne Shane Glenny

Shane Glenny

Your Questions Answered

Got Questions?

We have put together answers to some of the questions we hear most often from first home buyers in Geelong and Newtown. If you have a question that is not covered here, our team is always happy to have a conversation.

How long does the home loan process take?

The timeline can vary depending on a number of factors, including the lender you go with, the complexity of your application, and how quickly documents can be gathered and verified. In general terms, getting pre-approval can take anywhere from a few days to a couple of weeks, and formal approval after you have found a property can take a similar amount of time. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we work hard to keep things moving and will communicate with you regularly so you are never left wondering what is happening. We will also let you know upfront if there is anything you can do to help speed things along on your end.

Can you help me if I am self-employed?

Yes, absolutely. Being self-employed does not mean you cannot access finance, but it does mean the application process can look a little different compared to someone who receives a regular salary. Lenders typically want to see evidence of your income over a period of time, and the documentation required can vary. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we have experience working with self-employed clients and understand the unique challenges that can come with it. We will take the time to understand your business and your income, and help you put together an application that gives you the strongest possible chance of being considered by a lender.

What is refinancing and should I consider it?

Refinancing means replacing your existing home loan with a new one, either with your current lender or a different one. People refinance for all sorts of reasons. Some want to access the equity they have built up in their home, others want to consolidate debts, and some simply want to review whether their current loan still suits their needs. It is worth noting that refinancing is not always the right move for everyone, and there can be costs involved such as exit fees or application fees for a new loan. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we will look at your current situation honestly and help you weigh up whether refinancing makes sense for you, without any pressure.

How is Next Chapter Financial Group different from going directly to a bank?

When you go directly to a bank, you only see what that one lender has to offer. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we work with a wide range of lenders, which means we can look across multiple options to find something that suits your circumstances. We are not tied to any single institution, so our focus is on you and what works for your situation. We also take the time to explain things clearly, so you understand exactly what you are signing up for. For clients in Newtown and across greater Geelong, having someone local in your corner who genuinely understands the area and the people in it can make a real difference.

What types of loans can Next Chapter Financial Group help me with?

We assist clients with a wide range of lending needs. This includes home loans for first home buyers, people upgrading or downsizing, and investors looking to grow their property portfolio. We also help with refinancing existing loans, car and personal loans, and business finance. Whether you are just starting out or have been through the process before, we take the time to understand your goals and help you find a lending solution that fits your life. Our clients in Newtown and across greater Geelong come to us at all different stages of life, and we are proud to support them through each one.

Do I need a large deposit to apply for a home loan?

The deposit required can vary depending on the lender and the type of loan you are applying for. Generally speaking, a deposit of at least 20% of the property's purchase price helps you avoid paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance, which is an additional cost that protects the lender if you default on your loan. However, there are options available for borrowers with smaller deposits, and some government schemes may also be worth exploring depending on your situation. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we will talk through your circumstances with you honestly and help you understand what may be possible, without making any promises we cannot keep.

What does a mortgage broker actually do?

A mortgage broker acts as the go-between for you and a range of lenders, including banks, credit unions, and other financial institutions. Rather than you having to approach each lender individually, a mortgage broker does the legwork on your behalf. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we take the time to understand your personal situation, your goals, and what you can realistically afford. We then research the options available across our panel of lenders and help you understand what might suit your needs. We handle the paperwork, liaise with lenders, and keep you informed every step of the way so you always know where things stand.

How much does it cost to use a mortgage broker?

In most cases, our service comes at no direct cost to you as the borrower. Mortgage brokers are typically paid a commission by the lender once your loan settles. We are required by law to disclose any commissions or fees upfront, so you will always know exactly how we are paid before you commit to anything. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we believe in being open and transparent with our clients from the very first conversation. If there is ever a situation where a fee may apply, we will let you know clearly and in advance so there are no surprises along the way.

Why should I choose Next Chapter Financial Group?

At Next Chapter Financial Group, we are a local team that genuinely cares about the people we work with. We are based in and around the greater Geelong area, including Newtown, so we understand the local property market and the community we serve. We take a warm, honest approach to every conversation and make it our priority to explain things in plain language so you always feel informed and confident. We are not here to rush you into a decision or push a product that does not suit you. We are here to listen, to help you understand your options, and to support you through one of the most important financial decisions of your life.

I am a first home buyer. Where do I even start?

Buying your first home is one of the biggest financial decisions you will ever make, and it is completely normal to feel unsure about where to begin. The good news is that you do not have to figure it all out on your own. At Next Chapter Financial Group, we work with first home buyers regularly and understand the questions and concerns that come with it. We will sit down with you, explain how the process works from start to finish, talk through what you may be eligible for, and help you understand what to expect at each stage. There are also government grants and schemes that may be available to first home buyers in Victoria, and we can help point you in the right direction.

First Home Buyers Geelong

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