Building your first home

Get ready for a rewarding and exciting experience

Building a home is the perfect way to fulfil all your wishes when it comes to the perfect house for you and your family. Whether you enjoy the luxury of walk-in robes, the convenience of a butler's pantry, or simply want to create the ideal environment for entertaining on the weekends, building your first home from the ground up is a rewarding and exciting experience that gives you the opportunity to bring your vision to life.

However, there is a lot to consider as a first time home builder, and it's not uncommon for many first-timers to get lost in it all. If it's your first time building a house, we have put together a practical first-time home building process guide that you can follow in order to smoothly navigate your building experience and feel confident throughout your build journey.

How much do you need for a Deposit?

One of the first steps you will want to take will involve figuring out your budget and from there, how much of a deposit you will need in order to take out a home loan. Having an idea of your budget is also great as it means you're less likely to overspend on extras in your new home that you may not necessarily need, such as an additional bedroom or bathroom.

Once you have a figure in mind, you can then determine how much you will need. The preferred amount set aside for a deposit is 20% (of the price of the home you intend to build), but this isn't feasible for everyone – anywhere from 5% and upwards is enough. However, unless you reach that 20% deposit, you will also pay lender's mortgage insurance (LMI), which can add considerable cost when building your first home.

If you are a first home buyer, there are government initiatives such as the Family Home Guarantee Scheme or First Home Loan Deposit Scheme that can help eligible buyers get into their property sooner by removing the need to pay lender's mortgage insurance with as little as a 5% deposit. It’s also important to factor in additional costs such as stamp duty, site costs and upfront fees when setting your budget. Establishing a realistic budget ensures your home building journey starts on solid financial ground.

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Kaiya 25 home design living room in Coastal style - First time home builders

MyChoice Home Loans for first time builders

Choosing the right loan is an important aspect of building your first home. Working with a mortgage broker can help simplify the process by comparing lenders and identifying loan options that suit your needs.

At Brighton Homes, we are proud to work alongside our in-house finance experts at MyChoice Home Loans. To help you better understand the different home loan options available to you, the financial experts at MyChoice can discuss the process and help you to secure the right loan for first home builders.

MyChoice Home Loans
Meridian 27 home design bedroom - First Time Home Builder

Build Your First Home with Brighton

With years of award-winning experience, we create stylish architecturally designed homes for first-time builders that entice your senses. Couple this with our 60 year structural warranty and you can look forward to enjoying your new home that is built to last.

Build your first home with Brighton Homes and fall in love with our timeless designs. Browse all of our house designs today or contact us to talk about the future of your new home. 

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Mistakes to avoid when building your first home

Building a new house is one of the most exciting projects you will likely undertake in your lifetime. However it can be daunting and sometimes the wrong decisions can result in setbacks. Many first-time builders underestimate site costs or fail to complete thorough site inspections, which can lead to unexpected expenses during construction. 

It’s important to understand your block conditions, including drainage, retaining walls and access to services before building begins. Other common mistakes include rushing design decisions, overlooking additional costs and not conducting your own research. Taking the time to plan carefully ensures a smoother building process.

Choosing the right builder is also critical. Working with a reputable builder, like Brighton Homes, who will provide clear communication, transparent pricing and detailed contracts, can help avoid delays and budget blowouts.

Frequently Asked first time home builder questions

How much deposit do I need to build my first home?

Deposit requirements vary by lender, but some buyers may be eligible for low-deposit options. Speaking with a home loan specialist early helps you understand what you can afford. Discover exactly How Much Do Your Need For A House Deposit here.

What Government grants are available for first home builders in Queensland?

Eligible buyers may access the First Home Owner Grant and other support schemes. Eligibility depends on property value and personal circumstances.

What are the hidden costs when buying your first home?

In addition to your deposit, you may need to budget for site costs, legal fees, upgrades and utility connections. Understanding these early helps avoid surprises.

Is it cheaper to build or buy an existing home?

It depends on the location, land price, design, inclusions and any grants or concessions available to you. Building can offer better value when you want a new home with modern inclusions and fewer immediate maintenance costs.

What is the first step if I want to build a house?

The first step is understanding your budget and borrowing capacity. Once you know what you can afford, you can start comparing land, home designs and finance options with more confidence.