i had this problem when i started invesitng, but foruntately mum dad let me use the equity in the family home to get started, this was back in 2001, since then i have been able to refinance and pay them back

so work out, but don't over do it, it's their retirement savings you might be playing with.

i know a few friends also get together to buy a place together, and when 50/50 but one person borrow more money and the other person put in more cash deposit, just depends on what works out for them

in terms of goverment programs, other then the first home owner grants and first home saver accounts? that about all that i have seen.