What fabulous news for first home buyers, a whopping $21,000 towards deposit, expenses or even new furniture if you buy a brand new home before June 2009. So if you're ready to take the plunge and sign up for what is likely to be the biggest commitment you've ever made, now, more than ever, seems to be the perfect time to get into the property market as a first home buyer.

Even though your friends and family will be full of advice, as with any major decision in our lives, it's always good to take their experiences and opinions on board, however your own research will give you peace of mind and assurance, before you sign up for the big purchase and possibly sign your life away to the mortgage company. Generally, most first home buyers already have an idea on the location and the type of home they want, so now it's just a matter of finding out whether you can afford what you want to buy. Almost all the major banks and other lenders offer special packages with reduced application fees and lower interest specifically for First Home Buyers. With the help of some comprehensive search engines, shopping around not only for a home loan, but a property is almost as easy as 1 ? 2 ? 3, so jump on the internet and let your fingers do all the work for you. It's important to remember that the bank can't lend you all the money to buy your first home. As a first home buyer, at least a small part of your deposit will have to come from your own savings or alternatively a gift from your relatives. Once you find the right home loan, apply for a pre-approval. This can be done either online or in person. A pre-approval is the bank's preliminary approval subject to an acceptable property. You will need to provide a completed application form along with requirements such as your identification, income evidence and savings (gift) verification. Once the bank is satisfied that you're an acceptable first home buyer, they will issue a pre-approval and you can start shopping around for your first home.

So when and how do I apply for a First Home Owner Grant? The First Home Owner Grant is only available to Australian residents and citizens, so before you apply you should contact your state revenue office, alternatively visit their respective website for more information. If you satisfy all the first home buyer criteria and conditions, there are two ways you can apply for your first home owner grant. If you apply for your first home owner grant via your bank, you're likely to receive the grant at settlement, so on the day you officially become a home owner. If you apply for the grant directly with the state revenue office, the grant is not likely to come through until after the settlement. The best way is to keep in regular contact with the lending manager of your chosen bank. Remember, they help first home buyers every day and are the best source of information and guidance, so don't be afraid to call them if you have a question, after all, they're here to help you.