Buying a new home is exciting. There’s nothing quite like picturing yourself in a new space, and decorating it just the way you want, without the scrutiny of parents or landlords. Home ownership has been the great Australian dream for a long time, and the allure of our own space still holds a great attraction. For many of us, it’s the biggest financial commitment we make. So, it’s important to know what we’re in for, and to find the home loan that’s right for us.

Here you can discover the basics of getting a home loan, and get to grips with the jargon. We explain how different home loans work and what to look out for. Learn the difference between fixed and variable interest, and understand fees and charges you might come across. If you’re a first-time buyer there are tips to consider such as what you can really spend, taking account of stamp duty and whether you’re eligible for financial assistance. Take your time to explore this section, there’s no rush. Like finding the right property to buy, it can take time to find the home loan that suits you just now.

Home Loans Decoded: Your Essential Guide From A to Z

There are a lot of hoops to jump through when you become a homeowner, and a lot of unfamiliar terms. Discover the essentials decoded in this home loan guide. Read more

What is an offset account?

An offset account could help you pay off your home loan faster and help you save money in repayments. Find out what an offset account is and how it works. Read more

Understanding home loans

Whether you're just starting out with your first home or need a refresher. Find out how different home loans work and what to look out for. Read more

9 tips for first home buyers

There’s a lot to get your head around as a first home buyer, and the upfront and ongoing costs are only part of it. Find out more. Read more

Principal and interest or interest-only mortgage?

Trying to decide between a principal-and-interest or interest-only home loan? In this article we look at both repayment types and what they mean. Read more

How much do I need to save for a home deposit?

If you’re ready to make the leap onto the property ladder, the first thing you’ll need is a deposit for your home loan. Find out here how much you’ll need to save. Read more

Understanding how bank property valuations work

Find out what bank valuations are, why they can differ from the purchase price of a property, and how it affects what homebuyers can afford to borrow. Read more

A guide to the First Home Owner Grant

Find out about the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) and the eligibility criteria for first time buyers in your state or territory. Read more

5 money mistakes to avoid if you’re going guarantor

If you’re going to balance the future of your property on someone’s reliability to pay their own mortgage, know the risks. Read more

Renting vs buying

If you’re weighing up the pros and cons of renting a place to live versus buying a home, this explainer could help. Read more

Understanding the loan to value ratio

What is the loan to value ratio? How does it affect your home loan? In this article we answer those questions and more you can be better informed. Read more

The hidden costs of buying a home

Buying a home can come with lots of hidden costs on top of the purchase price. Find out what upfront costs and ongoing charges home buyers should know about. Read more

Understanding lender’s mortgage insurance

What is lender’s mortgage insurance? And if you’re buying a home or refinancing, how do you know if you need it? Find out with AMP. Read more

Applying for conditional approval

If you’re thinking about buying a home it might be a good idea to get pre-approval for your home loan before you start house hunting. Read more

How does the First Home Super Saver Scheme (FHSSS) work?

If you’re a first home buyer, you may be eligible to withdraw voluntary super contributions you’ve made (plus earnings) to put towards a home deposit. Read more

Getting started in property

AMP experts answer frequently asked questions about buying your first home. Learn about costs and processes involved and the government incentives available. Read more

Fixed rate, variable or split? How to choose a home loan that’s right for you

Choosing between a fixed, variable and split-rate home loan can be difficult. We explain the benefits and considerations of all three. Read more

Getting started in property

In this episode of the Q&AMP, learn how much you’ll need to buy a property, what upfront and ongoing costs to expect, and some of the key terms to become familiar with before you purchase your first home. Read more

Saving for a house deposit

Saving for a house deposit can feel like you’ve got a mountain to climb. Here’s 5 things to help get you on your way to reaching that hefty savings goal. Read more

Step-by-step guide to buying a property

Buying a property is the most expensive purchase most people will ever make, so it pays to do your homework and get it right. Here’s what you need to know. Read more

Buying property at auction

Looking to buy property at auction? Here’s what you need to know about the auction process: from pre-auction due diligence to successfully bidding at auction. Read more

How to find the right property

Some tips from AMP on searching for a new property, whether you’re an owner-occupier or investor. Read more

What can you afford to borrow when buying your first home?

The first step to buying your first home in Australia is knowing how much you can afford borrow. Here’s how to become a home buyer in less than five years. Read more

Important information

Any advice and information is provided by AWM Services Pty Ltd ABN 15 139 353 496, AFSL No. 366121 (AWM Services) and is general in nature. It hasn’t taken your financial or personal circumstances into account. Taxation issues are complex. You should seek professional advice before deciding to act on any information.Taxation issues are complex. You should seek professional advice before deciding to act on any information.

It’s important to consider your particular circumstances and read the relevant product disclosure statement, or terms and conditions, available from AMP at amp.com.au, or by calling 131 267, before deciding what’s right for you.

You can read our Financial Services Guide online for information about our services, including the fees and other benefits that AMP companies and their representatives may receive in relation to products and services provided to you. You can also ask us for a hardcopy. All information on this website is subject to change without notice. AWM Services is part of the AMP group.