Buy a property

Buying a property involves several important steps to ensure a smooth and successful purchase. At Ray White, we understand the significance of this decision and are here to guide you through the process with advice on;

• How much you can borrow to buy a property
• Whether you should buy through auction or private treaty
• Attending an open home for inspection
• The pre-settlement inspection, and
• What you need to organise for moving day

Read our full buying property guide here

If you're on the hunt for your first property, there's key tips to follow to get ahead of the game. From factoring in additional costs to researching the market, you can also find FAQs on first home buyer incentives and more information on the 5% deposit scheme.

See the key tips and guide here

Everything you need to know about the 5% deposit scheme

First home buyer incentive FAQs

A quick guide on the Home Guarantee Scheme, who is eligible for the five per cent deposit and how to apply for the scheme, from Ray White Head of Research, Vanessa Rader.

The Albanese Government's decision to bring forward the expanded five per cent deposit scheme (Home Guarantee Scheme) to 1 October 2025, represents the most significant first home buyer intervention in decades. With national house prices verging on $950,000 and units at $700,000, the traditional path to homeownership has become increasingly challenging for young Australians.

Read the 5% deposit scheme for first home buyers guide here.

Thinking about buying a property with a 5% deposit?

Take a look at our checklist to get prepared and make sure you’re in the best position you can be if you’re looking to buy your first home. The newly introduced five per cent deposit is only available to eligibile buyers, but there's also other considerations to think about with your financial position and the current market.

Read the first home buyer key tips here.

Interest rates are a pivotal element of the Australian economy, influencing borrowing costs, investment choices, and overall economic stability. Whether you are a homeowner, investor, or someone keen to understand the financial landscape, understanding how interest rates work is essential.

Our simple guide explains what interest rates are, what factors affect interest rates and how interest rates affect homeowners and potential buyers.

Read the full interest rate guide here

Whether you're a first home buyer or considering buying a property at auction, the process can be daunting if you're not familiar with what happens at auction. At Ray White, auctions our the lifeblood of our group and we have expert auctioneers across Australia who successfully call auctions on a weekly basis, so we can support you with auction tips and advice, and help you prepare for buying at auction.

Why buy at auction?

Auction is the most transparent way to buy a property. As the buyer, you can immediately see the competition on auction day and, as all bidding is done openly, you can gauge the true market value. Auction is a level playing field, having a fixed auction date removes long negotiation periods and everyone has access to due diligence prior to auction day, meaning everyone is bidding on the same terms.

How to bid (and buy) at auction?

Preparation is key when it comes to buying at auction. Attend other auctions to understand the process, complete your due diligence and set a clear budget. Reach out to your local agent or auctioneer for their advice and insights to help set you up for auction success. Bid confidently and with purpose.

Check out our Auction Hub for everything you need to know about auctions.

Once you’ve decided that you want to make an offer for a property there are two main methods to purchasing: auction and private treaty.

At auctions you’ll be bidding against other potential buyers, will have to make fast decisions and will generally know if you will own the home when the auction concludes. If you’re negotiating through a private treaty you’re negotiating the sale price with the vendor and the initial price is set by the market value of the property, not a price reserve. The process can take days or weeks longer than an auction.

Read more about auctions vs private treaties

Make moving house as seamless as possible with our top tips to start your home owning adventure with minimal fuss. Take a look through the resources below to ensure you've got everything covered ahead of the move including packing tips, changing utilities and any necessary paperwork.

Packing tips for when you move house

Moving house and changing utilities tips

What are the advantages of purchasing with family or friends? How does home finance work in a shared purchase? What is a co-ownership agreement? Our experts can talk you through your options including purchasing property with family or friends.

See more about buying with family and friends