by Bonnie Bullock
1. Be realistic. Most people will relocate from their first home within three to five years, so it's important to bear in mind that your first property is your initial step on the property ladder. It's certainly not going to be your last! So consider your current needs and lifestyle - and buy with these priorities in mind, not what you will need five years down the track. 2. Buy within your means. First homebuyers need to do their research and establish a budget which will indicate the cost of monthly mortgage repayments. It is important to ensure that these repayments are comfortably affordable and that enough income remains every month to create a 'buffer' for those unexpected costs. 3. Location. The term location, location, location hits the nail on the head! Select the best possible location for your needs and lifestyle. Find out where the best locations are which also suit your budget and then select a builder that is experienced in home and land packages in the first homebuyers market, and which has a good reputation for quality and service. 4. Be financially savvy. For first homebuyers who don't want a huge mortgage, two and three bedroom homes can be found in some of Perth's most sought after housing estates - and despite block sizes being compact, clever designs mean that smaller homes can be stylish and spacious. What's more, prices can be found at below $300,000, which is incredibly affordable for a brand new home. 5. Where should I look? You may like to consider researching the Flutes range of ready-built homes created by the Homebuyers Centre. They are designed with affordable housing in mind and are a great entry point into the market for first homebuyers who want a stylish and contemporary new home, without a large mortgage. Prices start from $309,000 which makes them perfect for singles or couples who don't want the stress of a large mortgage. The Flutes range is currently available in Brighton and Ellenbrook.