Considering buying, but have no clue where to start.

[Marley&Me]

Thanks myturn, our suburb is growing, but it is still cheap because there are still old parts. We will only buy something older anyway because we need a big backyard!!

Indadhanu, I will check it out

[RhiChiChi]

Would your DH consider having the house in your name only but the loan in joint names - that way you might be able to qualify for the first home owners grant?? Just a thought

[Marley&Me]

Sounds like a great idea, but I don't think it works like that from what I've heard you can't get a house loan in two names and then buy the house in one name.

Unless anyone else can shed some light on this?

[fionas]

I don't think you can or we would have done that (this is DP's first house in Australia).

[Rivlas]

You will find a broker is worth talking to as they don't work for a bank but work for the customer.
Also you may be surprised how much you will need for a deposit compaired to what a bank says.

I agree with what the others have said about looking. Also have a yes and no list of what you want in a house.

[Marley&Me]

I don't think you can or we would have done that (this is DP's first house in Australia).

Yeah, I don't think you can




So who can I go to for the loan for a house? Obviously the bank, but who else? Is that like Aussie home loans etc.? And what exactly does a broker do?
The bank were pretty reasonable, but I'd love to know all my options......

[Rivlas]

If you go through a broker he deals with all lenders and finds the one that will suit you.

Another thing to be careful about is don't apply to to many banks as they keep a record of applications.

[Marley&Me]

Thanks Rivlas, it's the same for personal loans and credit cards too with the credit thing.
So a broker you pay and he deals with banks/financial institutions for you?