Spring is traditionally Australia’s busiest property season – and 2025 is no exception.
With open homes buzzing and listings finally ticking upward, first home buyers are finding more opportunities to enter the market. But with competition still fierce and interest rates slowly easing, it pays to go in prepared.
Spring 2025 Property Market: What First Home Buyers Need to Know Before Jumping In
What’s Happening in the Market This Spring
After several years of tight supply, listings across most capitals – particularly Adelaide, Brisbane and Melbourne – are rising modestly. Many homeowners are testing the market now that rate stability has returned following the August 2025 RBA rate cut.
Prices have edged up around 3–5% nationally since winter, driven by steady population growth and limited new housing stock.
For first home buyers, this means:
-
More choice compared to 2023–24
-
Slightly softer competition in mid-tier suburbs
-
Lenders showing renewed appetite for low-deposit loans
The Advantage of the 5% Deposit Scheme
If you’ve been struggling to save a 20% deposit, the Australian Government 5% Deposit Scheme (previously the First Home Guarantee) may help you buy sooner.
From 1 October 2025, the scheme offers unlimited places and raised property caps, meaning more buyers in metro and regional SA can purchase a home with just a 5% deposit and no Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
Example:
An Adelaide home priced at $700,000 would normally need a $140,000 deposit. Under the Scheme, you’d need only $35,000 — a major difference for first home buyers trying to keep pace with rising rents.
How to Prepare for the Spring Rush
Buying your first home isn’t just about finding “the one” — it’s about being financially ready when the right property appears.
1️⃣ Get your pre-approval early
Spring properties move fast. Having pre-approval means you can act quickly and confidently when you find the right home.
2️⃣ Know your borrowing power
Use a borrowing power calculator or chat with your broker to understand how your income, savings, and debts shape your budget.
3️⃣ Factor in all costs
Stamp duty, legal fees, inspections, and moving expenses can add up — plan for 5–7% on top of your purchase price.
4️⃣ Lean on a broker
At Henley Home Loans, we compare over 40 lenders, help you access government schemes, and guide you through the paperwork — so you can focus on house hunting.
Final Thoughts
Spring 2025 offers a rare window of opportunity for first home buyers: more listings, stable rates, and expanded government support.
Preparation is everything — the right strategy can make the difference between watching the market and finally joining it.
Why Choose Henley Home Loans?
✔ Local Adelaide mortgage broker based in Henley Beach
✔ Access to 40+ banks and lenders
✔ Tailored support for first home buyers, refinancers, and investors
✔ Stress-free guidance from pre-approval to settlement
Ready to take the first step?
Pre-approval is the first step toward confident home buying. Whether you’re buying your first home in Adelaide, upgrading your family property, or investing in South Australia’s property market, we’re here to help.
📞 Call us today on (08) 8235 2838
📩 Or fill in our simple online form to get started.
At Henley Home Loans, we make the pre-approval process simple and stress-free. Whether you’re a first home buyer, upgrading, or investing, our Adelaide-based team helps you understand your borrowing power and get pre-approved with confidence.
Book your free Consultation Strategy Call today — and take the first step towards buying your next home with clarity and peace of mind.
Any advice contained in this article is of a general nature only and does not take into account the objectives, financial situation or needs of any particular person. Therefore, before making any decision, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice with regard to those matters. Information in this article is correct as of the date of publication and is subject to change.