The Ultimate First Home Buyer's Guide
Build Your First Home With Confidence
Buying your first home is a major milestone, but it doesn't have to feel overwhelming. With more than four decades of experience building across NSW, Domaine Homes can support you from your first enquiry through to handover, with fixed pricing and dedicated support along the way.
Whether you're just starting to explore your options or ready to build, our team can help you understand available grants and incentives, explore finance options, choose a home design and find the right land across Sydney, the Hunter, Central Coast, South Coast, Southern Highlands, Illawarra and Newcastle.
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Get started with a 5% deposit, subject to eligibility and lender approval.
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Understand available grants and incentives for eligible first home buyers.
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Access a free finance consultation with Construction Loan Specialists through Loan Market.
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Build with fixed pricing that includes site costs for budget certainty.
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Get support from enquiry to handover throughout your building journey.
Explore our house and land packages or find where we build across NSW.
How Much Do First Home Buyers Really Need to Get Started?
With Domaine Homes, you may be able to get started with just a 5% deposit (subject to lender approval and eligibility for low-deposit support). But your deposit isn't the only upfront cost to consider. You'll also need to budget for expenses such as stamp duty, legal and conveyancing fees, building inspections, mortgage registration fees, council rates and home and contents insurance.
What you may need upfront:
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Deposit (from 5% with eligible support)
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Contract payment ($10,000 before contract)
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Stamp duty (May be reduced or waived if you’re a first home buyer)
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Legal and conveyancing costs (Covers contract review and settlement fees)
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Building inspections (May be required depending on your property and finance requirements)
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Mortgage registration fees (Government and lender-related costs may apply)
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Council rates (An ongoing cost once you own your home)
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Home and contents insurance (Helps protect your new home and belongings)
For a clearer picture of your upfront costs and borrowing capacity, speak with our Construction Loan Specialists through Loan Market. Our finance service is provided at no cost to the buyer. Our guide to how much deposit you need to buy a house walks through the numbers.
First Home Buyer Grants and Schemes in NSW
Buying or building your first home in NSW can come with a range of government support, but each scheme has different eligibility requirements, price caps and benefits.
How Does the First Home Owner Grant Work in NSW?
The NSW First Home Owner Grant is a one-off $10,000 payment for eligible first home buyers purchasing or building a new home. The grant is not available when buying an established home. However, exceptions apply if the home has or will undergo substantial renovations.
For more information, read our guide on the NSW First Home Owner Grant.
Stamp Duty Relief for First Home Buyers
Under the NSW First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme, eligible buyers pay no stamp duty on homes valued up to $800,000 and a reduced amount on homes valued up to $1,000,000. For vacant land, the thresholds are $350,000 for a full exemption and $450,000 for a concession. Read our guide to the First Home Buyers Assistance Scheme in 2026 for the full details.
The 5% Deposit Scheme
The 5% Deposit Scheme, administered by Housing Australia, can help eligible first home buyers purchase a home with a deposit of just 5% without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI). You may also be eligible if you haven’t owned a property in Australia in over 10 years. However, this is subject to the scheme’s other requirements.
Help to Buy Shared Equity
The Help to Buy Scheme allows eligible buyers to purchase a new home with a deposit of 2%, with the government contributing up to 40% of the purchase price. The government retains a share of the property, and the scheme has specific income, property price and other eligibility requirements.
Read more about Help to Buy with Domaine Homes, including eligibility information and package examples. You can also read our guide to approved shared equity schemes in NSW.
Not sure where to start? Our free first home buyer guide covers the key things to consider before building, including government grants, deposit options, finance, choosing your home design and the building process.
Download your free guide and take the next step towards building your first home with Domaine Homes.
Why Build Your First Home Instead of Buying an Existing One?
Building your first home gives you the chance to make the decisions you want about your future home from the start. You can choose a design that works best for your block, budget, and lifestyle requirements. You’ll also move into a brand-new home without having to worry about someone else’s renovations and maintenance issues.
The best part? There’s also the potential to access the $10,000 First Home Owner Grant if you’re eligible and building a qualifying new home, which isn’t available if you’re purchasing an existing home.
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Build new with Domaine Homes |
Buy existing |
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First Home Owner Grant |
Eligible buyers may receive the one-off $10,000 grant when building a qualifying new home. |
The First Home Owner Grant is not available for established homes. |
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Price certainty |
A fixed-price contract includes site costs, helping you budget accurately. |
While the purchase price is known, you may need to budget for repairs, renovations and ongoing maintenance. |
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Design and layout |
Choose a home design to suit your block, lifestyle and budget, with designs available for 9m, 10m and 12.5m lots. |
You generally purchase the existing floorplan and layout, unless you make renovations or alterations. |
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Structural protection |
Our Lifetime Structural Guarantee covers key structural elements including the frame, roof trusses, slab, piers and footings. |
The condition and remaining structural protection can vary depending on the home’s age, history and inspection results. |
For a closer, more in-depth look at the differences, read our guide on whether it’s better to build or buy a house.
Discover Affordable House & Land Packages Across NSW
Your options aren’t limited to one part of NSW. We build across the Hunter Region, Central Coast, North West Sydney, South West Sydney, Southern Highlands, and South Coast, giving first home buyers more choice when finding a location that suits their budget and lifestyle. Whether you’re looking for a quieter regional setting or somewhere within reach of Sydney, explore our available locations and house and land packages to find the right place to buy your first home.
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Explore the Central Coast for house and land opportunities.
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Discover South Coast locations and packages.
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Browse the Southern Highlands for available communities and land opportunities.
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Explore the Hunter Region for available estates and house and land opportunities.
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Browse North West Sydney estates and discover available house and land options.
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Find South West Sydney house and land packages in established and growing communities.
With a range of locations to choose from, you can find a block that works for your budget and the way you want to live.
Where to Live: Choosing Land for Your First Home
Choosing the right block is a key part of building your first home. We build across a broad range of NSW locations, from Hawkes Nest in the north to Sussex Inlet in the south, and inland to Singleton. Whether you already own land or are looking for a house and land package, your choice of block can influence your budget, home design and how you end up living day to day.
Before committing to a block, consider:
Lot Width
Our first-home designs are available for 9m, 10m and 12.5m lots, so check your block's frontage before choosing a design.
Registered or Unregistered Land
Registered land is generally ready to build on sooner, while unregistered land may require you to wait for titles and services to be completed.
Site Costs
Find out what is included in your build price, including earthworks, retaining, services and other site-specific requirements. Our fixed-price offering includes site costs.
Location & Amenities
Think about your daily routine and proximity to schools, public transport, shops, parks and major roads.
Need more information? Explore where Domaine Homes builds, browse available NSW estates, or learn more about NSW land releases and estates to help find the right location for your first home.
The Ultimate First Home Buyer's Guide
Everything you need to know before building your first home—all in one free guide. Learn about government grants, low-deposit options, finance, choosing the right home design, and what to expect throughout the building process. Download your free guide today and take the first step towards home ownership.
How the Help to Buy Scheme Works
If you're saving for your first home, the new government grant could help you reach your goal sooner.
Lets make building your first home a reality >
If you’re ready to build your first home, speak with a consultant today you may be eligible for the new Help to Buy Scheme. With as little as 2% deposit the scheme is designed to help you purchase a home sooner.
You still maintain ownership and you get into the market faster >
With the grant you still own the home, the Government contributes a portion of your home’s purchase price, meaning you borrow less.
You have the flexibility to buy back the government’s share >
No repayments, no interest, and no rent on the Government’s share. You can buy back their portion over time or all at once helping you move toward full ownership at your own pace.
Find Your Ideal First Home Design Today
View All Home Designs
Lux
132.29m2 (15sq)
Was $340,700
Now Only $306,630
3
1
2
1
10m
146.94m2 (17sq)
Was $356,100
Now Only $320,490
3
2
2
1
10m
162.62m2 (18sq)
Was $375,200
Now Only $337,680
4
2
2
1
10m
Design and price your new home today!
Whether you're looking for a stylish new build in a masterplanned community or a family-friendly neighbourhood close to schools, parks and transport, we’ve got the perfect option for you.
Design out your dream home to your specifications and budget from our top designs for First Home Buyers.
$807,300*
House Design: Louis 22
Facade: Grace
House Size: 201.09m2 (22sq)
Lot Size: 475m2
4
2
2
2
$799,180*
House Design:
Facade: Traditional
House Size: 198.38m2 (21sq)
Lot Size: 450m2
4
2
2
2
$1,112,500*
House Design: Glasgow 27
Facade: Mantra
House Size: 252.39m2 (27sq)
Lot Size: 1,074m2
4
3
2.5
2
$807,300*
House Design: Louis 22
Facade: Grace
House Size: 201.09m2 (22sq)
Lot Size: 475m2
4
2
2
2
$799,180*
House Design:
Facade: Traditional
House Size: 198.38m2 (21sq)
Lot Size: 450m2
4
2
2
2
$1,112,500*
House Design: Glasgow 27
Facade: Mantra
House Size: 252.39m2 (27sq)
Lot Size: 1,074m2
4
3
2.5
2
$1,214,225*
House Design: Monterey 25
Facade: Traditional
House Size: 230.15m2 (25sq)
Lot Size: 300m2
5
2
3.5
2
$1,120,550*
House Design: Geneva 26 Dual
Facade: Grace
House Size: 237.39m2 (26sq)
Lot Size: 525m2
5
2
3
2
$1,183,800*
House Design: Trevi 21
Facade: Tempo
House Size: 194.26m2 (21sq)
Lot Size: 253.6m2
3
3
2.5
1
$1,214,225*
House Design: Monterey 25
Facade: Traditional
House Size: 230.15m2 (25sq)
Lot Size: 300m2
5
2
3.5
2
$1,120,550*
House Design: Geneva 26 Dual
Facade: Grace
House Size: 237.39m2 (26sq)
Lot Size: 525m2
5
2
3
2
$1,183,800*
House Design: Trevi 21
Facade: Tempo
House Size: 194.26m2 (21sq)
Lot Size: 253.6m2
3
3
2.5
1
My Journey Started with Domaine Homes
'We knew every step of the process leading up to how much it was going to cost, everything was always communicated to us.' Dylan and Shelby's story is a true inspiration, reminding us of the joy and pride that comes with turning dreams into reality.
'Domaine Homes has been amazing to deal with from the moment we deposited on our dream home to the construction of our home. They are the home builder who were fast in their build times, easy to deal with and the biggest factor is they were affordable for first home buyers like us. We truly thank Domaine Homes for all they have done in providing us with our forever home.'
First Home, Big Dream
The Journey From Empty Block to Forever Home
Building your first home can feel overwhelming, but it can also be one of life's most rewarding experiences. Discover how one couple navigated land hunting, finance approvals, design decisions, and construction to create a home that perfectly reflects their future.
Inspiration for the home your family will love
On Display Now Located in Austral
On Display Now Located in Austral
On Display Now Located in Leppington
On Display Now Located in Braemar
On Display Now Located in Braemar
On Display Now Located in Thornton
Understanding Finance
Plan your perfect budget
Your First Home Cost Checklist
Get Your Finances Home-Ready
Your Path to a Home Loan
Secure Your Pre-Approval Today
Unlock Savings with New Home Grants
Plan your perfect budget
Plan your perfect budget
Your budget is the first element to consider when you’re buying a new home. It is important to look at the costs of stamp duty, legal fees, inspections and ongoing costs
Your First Home Cost Checklist
Your First Home Cost Checklist
Remember, there are upfront costs beyond just the deposit, and they can add up. These may include:
- Stamp duty
- Legal and conveyancing fees
- Building inspections
- Mortgage registration fees
- Council rates
- Home and contents insurance
Get Your Finances Home-Ready
Get Your Finances Home-Ready
Using online calculators can help you estimate how much you can borrow and what your stamp duty might be, giving you a better idea of the overall costs.
After buying your home, it's essential to think carefully about your finances. You'll need to be able to cover ongoing expenses such as:
- Mortgage repayments
- Property taxes
- Insurance premium
- Maintenance costs
- Regular household expenses
It's also a good idea to set aside a little extra for any unexpected repairs or replacements.
Your Path to a Home Loan
Your Path to a Home Loan
Researching different types of loans is important. You should compare interest rates, whether fixed or variable, loan terms, features, and any associated fees. Some lenders also offer specialised products like deposit boost loans that can be combined with your main mortgage.
Secure Your Pre-Approval Today
Secure Your Pre-Approval Today
Getting pre-approval for a construction loan helps you understand your borrowing capacity and budget before finalising your land purchase or home design. Unlike a standard home loan, a construction loan typically releases funds in progress payments as each stage of your build is completed.
Our expert finance team can help you prepare your application and guide you through the finance approval process, so you can move forward with a clearer understanding of your finances. We also charge no interest charged on overdue progress payments, helping you manage your construction finances.
Learn more about construction finance with Domaine Homes, explore how the finance approval process works, or read our guide to common construction loan mistakes to avoid.
Unlock Savings with New Home Grants
Unlock Savings with New Home Grants
Talk to our team today and discover how these updated grants can make your first home more affordable than ever:
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No limits on applicants – everyone gets a chance to apply.
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Higher price caps – now buy a home in Sydney for up to $1.5 million.
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No income limits – more Australians can benefit.
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Buy with just a 5% deposit – and skip Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
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Haven’t owned property in 10 years? You’re eligible!
Take advantage of these opportunities and make your dream home a reality sooner than you thought.
How Building Your First Home Works, Step by Step
Building your first home with Domaine Homes typically takes about 36 weeks for a single-storey home or up to 40 weeks for a double-storey home, once approvals are in place. Allow additional time for approvals, which can take approximately three months through a Complying Development Certificate (CDC) or five months through a Development Application and Construction Certificate (DA/CC).
1. Check Your Finances
Begin by understanding your budget, borrowing capacity, and deposit requirements. Getting finance pre-approval can help you determine what you can afford and whether you may be eligible for first-home-buyer grants or concessions.
2. Choose Your Land
Select a block that meets your budget and location preferences. If you haven’t purchased land yet, explore our house and land packages to find a suitable option that works for you.
3. Choose Your Home Design
Explore our range of home designs and floor plans to find a layout that suits your needs. Consider your block size and lifestyle requirements when selecting your design and facade.
4. Sign Your Building Contract
Once you've settled on your design and inclusions, review and sign your building contract. You'll then complete the applicable cooling-off period before moving to the next stage.
5. Obtain Your Approvals
Our team prepares your file for the relevant approvals before construction begins. Approval timeframes will vary depending on the relevant CDC and DA/CC approval timelines.
6. Follow the Six Construction Stages
Once approvals are in place, our home construction process moves through six key stages: site testing, slab, frame, exterior, interior and completion.
7. Receive Your Keys
Once your home is complete, you'll attend the handover process and receive your keys and relevant documentation. From there, our customer care team will provide post-handover support.
Ready to build a brand new home? Explore our building process to learn more about each stage, read our guide on how long it takes to build a home, or find out what to do after handover.
Why Domaine Homes?
Why Domaine Homes?
At Domaine Homes, we believe building your new home should be easy, faster, and smarter. That’s why we’ve designed a process that makes your journey smoother, simpler, and more enjoyable.
Bringing your dream home to life is truly building made easy; With great designs, unbeatable value, and a name you can trust, your first home is in safe hands.
5% Deposit
Build with as little as a 5% deposit, helping eligible first home buyers enter the market sooner without needing the traditional 20% deposit.
Fixed-Price Guarantee
You get what you see. Your fixed price includes site costs, so you can budget with greater certainty and avoid unexpected hidden fees.
Quality
Domaine Homes has been building for over four decades and backs its homes with a Lifetime Structural Guarantee, using hybrid steel frames during construction for added strength and durability.
Fast Building
Our streamlined construction process targets an average build time of approximately 36 weeks for single-storey homes and 40 weeks for double-storey homes.
5% Deposit
Build with as little as a 5% deposit, helping eligible first home buyers enter the market sooner without needing the traditional 20% deposit.
Fixed-Price Guarantee
You get what you see. Your fixed price includes site costs, so you can budget with greater certainty and avoid unexpected hidden fees.
Quality
Domaine Homes has been building for over four decades and backs its homes with a Lifetime Structural Guarantee, using hybrid steel frames during construction for added strength and durability.
Fast Building
Our streamlined construction process targets an average build time of approximately 36 weeks for single-storey homes and 40 weeks for double-storey homes.
Make Your First Buy The Best With Domaine Homes
If you’re ready to get started and explore our selection of homes, contact us today for more information. Our team is always available to guide you through your options and ensure your first home looks and feels exactly how you want it.
We’re proud to offer a transparent and clear step-by-step approach, so you understand the journey towards your dream home and how we’ll help you. Domaine Homes will make your first-time buy seamless. The best part? You get to enjoy your new home for years to come!
Frequently Asked Questions
What measures should new homebuyers consider?
New home buyers should first evaluate their financial situation, decide on a budget, save for a deposit, research the property market and get a mortgage pre-approval before going out into the market. They are also advised to meet with a financial advisor or a mortgage broker to provide guidance about their next steps in home buying. You should also attend a few open houses and property inspections as these will give you a clearer perspective of the market and building conditions.
What should I consider before buying?
What are my financing options?
How do I know what’s right for me?
How do I choose a home design that fits my lifestyle?
What are some fun upgrades worth considering first?
How can I feel confident I’m making the right choice?
Are there any hidden costs?
At Domaine Homes, we’re proud to be transparent to ensure you’re clear on the process, every step of the way. When we give you a price, you can trust it has covered everything, including site costs.
How do I get started?
Visit one of our display homes or contact our team for more information. We’ll give you the expert advice and confidence you need to get started.
How much do you really need to get started?
You may be able to build your first home with a 5% deposit, depending on your eligibility for low-deposit support and lender approval. At Domaine Homes, you’ll need just $10,000 before signing your building contract, with a 10% deposit required before construction begins. Understanding these upfront costs can help you plan your budget and figure out what you need to save before you start. For more information, visit our home finance page.
How does the First Home Owner’s Grant work?
The NSW First Home Owner Grant is designed to provide a one-off payment of $10,000 to eligible first home buyers who purchase or build a new home. It can be a house, townhouse, apartment unit, or anything similar that is brand-new or substantially renovated. The grant is also not means-tested and is tax-free. You can apply through an approved lender, your solicitor or directly through Revenue NSW.
Eligibility criteria and property price limits apply, so it’s worth checking the requirements before you start planning your build. For more information, visit the NSW government’s home buyer grants and assistance schemes page.
Can you get a First Home Owners' Grant on existing homes?
No, the NSW First Home Owners’ Grant isn't available for existing homes. It is only available for eligible new homes such as newly built homes, off-the-plan purchases, and in selected circumstances, substantially renovated homes.
If you’re buying an established home, you won’t be eligible for this particular grant, but other first-home-buyer assistance may be available depending on your circumstances. For more information on your options, visit the NSW government’s home buyer grants and assistance schemes page.
How much is the First Home Owners' Grant in NSW?
The NSW First Home Owner Grant provides a one-off payment of $10,000 to eligible first home buyers purchasing or building a new home. To qualify, the property must meet the relevant price limits:
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Newly built homes
The purchase price must not exceed $600,000.
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Vacant land and a building contract
The combined cost of the land, comprehensive building contract and any building variations completed together must not exceed $750,000.
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Substantially renovated homes
The purchase price must not exceed $600,000, and the property must meet specific eligibility requirements, such as being sold for the first time since the renovations were completed. The grant may also be available alongside other eligible first-home-buyer exemptions or concessions. Check the latest requirements with Revenue NSW to confirm your eligibility before applying.
Is the First Home Owners' Grant still available in NSW?
Yes, the NSW First Home Owner Grant is still available to eligible home buyers. However, eligibility criteria can change, so it’s important to check the latest information through Revenue NSW before making any major financial decisions or submitting an application.
Can I build a house if I don’t own land yet?
Yes, you don’t need to already own the land to start building a house. We offer house and land packages across a wide range of NSW locations. This makes it easier for you to find a block and a home design that work together.
Explore where we build or browse our estates.
Curious what your future home could be like? Visit one of our display homes.
Do I need to be a first home buyer to build with Domaine Homes?
Absolutely not. We build for a range of buyers, whether you're purchasing your first home, upgrading, downsizing, or building an investment property. The only difference is that first-home buyers are eligible for specific grants and government assistance that our team can assist with navigating through.
Lets Build Your First Home Together
