http://www.firsthome.gov.auyou can check your eligibility according to the state you are buying in / intend to live in.

Thanks for all the input It's a bit of a tricky one because I do really want a pool for myself but we are only looking to staying in the house for approx 2 yrs before moving on and either selling or renting it. Unfortunately we live in a very remote place so there is really not much choice in regards to going above ground, 2nd hand etc though on…[Read more]

Hi, try http://www.firsthome.gov.au for all the rules regarding claiming the grant

Hi:) Ive never done a reno bathroom so this is just a thought, but is there any possibility that you can do some of the work yourself to save on the labour cost – ie ripping out the old tiles /  fixtures, which might offset the cost of the more expensive fixtures?

I've only got the one property recently bought and I just ended up using the agency who the property was listed for sale through, lol no method to the madness there it was more convienience, but luckily the PM has turned out to be great so luck was on my side.I agree with Karen word of mouth would surely have to be the best way. If I end up buying…[Read more]

Thanks – that's kinda what I was thinking also. I remember when I was growing up my parents had a pool installed for 10g, now it's 30! guess it also doesn't help when there's only one supplier in town. lol.Thanks for the advice.

Wow how interesting – I had no idea you could get refunds on LMI premiums. Learn something new every day I guess It does say on the Genworth page that no refund is applicable where a separate agreement exists between Genworth and the lender, so maybe that's what CBA is referring to? Have you tried contacting Genworth directly, or lodging a refund…[Read more]

My partner and I are building in South Hedland WA  with a look to it being an IP in about 2 yrs. I'm not really sure about Newman – from reading the local papers seems to be a good market there too but I'm no expert. In my (limited) experience it seems like mining towns can prove very lucrative but you have to get in at the right time and know…[Read more]

Falcon – not sure which gov department you spoke with but there is definately a minimum time you need to live in the property to qualify for the FHO grant. The FHO government website states: "must occupy the home as their principal place of residence for a continuous period of six months commencing within 12 months of settlement or construction…[Read more]

South Hedland in Western Australia.

– If property is tenanted you could ask how long the tenants have been in there for (eg if they have been there for some time gives you an indication they are happy with building, neighbours etc)- Have any improvements been made to the house (and if yes ask to see council approvals for these- friends of mine learned this the hard way)- Have the…[Read more]