Bridging the Gap: Young Adults & Homeownership

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Recent studies, like CoreLogic’s Women and Property report, highlight a stark ownership gap between young Australian men and women.

In the Gen Z cohort (those under 30), the disparity is a staggering 24.3%, reflecting systemic issues that make it harder for women to enter the property market. However, various programs, alternative ownership models and tailored saving strategies offer routes to bridge this gap.

Government Initiatives

Support for first time buyers

Several government schemes, with some focused on women, specifically aim to help first time buyers.

First Home Owner Grant (FHOG)

Most states and territories offer grants to first time buyers and often aim at newly constructed dwellings or properties below a certain price threshold. Eligibility requirements and grant amounts vary, so carefully check the relevant websites for your state or territory.

First Home Loan Deposit Scheme (FHLDS)

This federal scheme helps buyers purchase property with as little as a 5% deposit while avoiding lenders’ mortgage insurance (LMI). A limited number of places are released each financial year and income caps apply.

Family Home Guarantee

This scheme targets single parents with dependants by helping them to buy a home with a 2% deposit. It also avoids costly LMI.

Stamp duty concessions

Some states/territories offer stamp duty concessions or exemptions for first time buyers below a specific property value. These vary by location.

 

Shared Equity

A boost into ownership

Shared equity models allow buyers to purchase a portion of a property while a government agency, investor or family member holds the remaining share. This reduces the upfront deposit needed and lowers ongoing mortgage repayments.

Providers include:

  • National Housing Finance and Investment Corporation (NHFIC) – Offers a scheme where the government shares up to 40% equity with first time buyers.
  • State based programs – Some states offer their own shared equity schemes with unique features. Research options in your target area.
  • Private providers – Companies may offer shared equity models, but carefully compare terms and conditions before committing.

 

Alternative Ownership Models

Stepping outside the box

Rent to buy

These schemes allow tenants to build equity with a portion of their rent contributing towards a future purchase of the property.

Co-ownership

Buying with a friend, family member or partner can make homeownership more attainable. Be sure to have clear legal agreements to protect all parties.

Rentvest

Rentvesting is a modern approach to property ownership that challenges the conventional notion of homeownership, particularly for first time buyers. Rather than sinking all their savings into a single property, rentvestors opt to rent where they want to live and invest where they can afford to buy.

 

Saving Strategies – Every dollar counts

Automate your savings

Set up regular transfers into a dedicated high interest savings account for your deposit.

 Track your spending

Identify areas where you can cut back and redirect funds towards your homeownership goal.

 Maximise your income

Explore options for side hustles or negotiate a raise at your current job.

 The road ahead

Entering the Australian property market is a tremendous financial feat, especially for young women facing potential income gaps and affordability hurdles.

 

By exploring all available resources, considering alternative ownership models and implementing smart saving strategies, determined first time buyers can work towards turning their homeownership dreams into a reality – and we can help.

 

Reach out to us today to speak with one of our expert Lending Advisers.