First home buyers are finally getting a bit more breathing room, but that does not mean every scheme is a green light. In this Australian Property Podcast episode, Chris Bates sits down with Jack Elliott, National First Home Buyer Specialist at Alcove, to unpack what changed after the Budget and how buyers should think about grants, guarantees and shared-equity options in 2026. Jack explains why some first home buyers are seeing less competition at opens and auctions, how changes to investor borrowing power may be shifting the market, and why waiting for the perfect headline can be just as risky as rushing in too early. The bigger question, according to Jack, is whether you are actually ready: know your numbers, stress-test your budget, understand your pathway and buy with the next five to ten years in mind. They also break down the main paths into the market, including the 5% deposit scheme, LMI waivers for certain professions, guarantor loans, Help to Buy, and gifted money. Plus, they cover what to watch with stamp duty concessions and the First Home Owner Grant, and the trap of letting a short-term incentive drive a long-term property decision. If you are trying to work out whether to buy now, which scheme fits your situation, or how to avoid the biggest first-home-buyer mistakes, this episode is for you. Episode resources - Ask a question (select the Property podcast): https://bit.ly/R-quest Show partner resources - Join Pearler using the code "RASKSWITCH" and get $32 of Pearler Credit: https://bit.ly/Pearler Rask resources - Pete's Buyers Agency: https://allenwargent.com.au - Alcove mortgage broking: https://raskmedia.com.au/services/mortgage-broking - Amy Lunardi Buyers Agency (Melbourne) https://amylunardi.com.au - All services: https://bit.ly/R-services - Financial Planning: https://bit.ly/R-plan - Invest with us: https://bit.ly/R-invest - Access Show Notes: https://bit.ly/R-notes - Ask a question: https://bit.ly/R-quest - We love feedback! https://raskau.typeform.com/to/ZbfHy6IP Follow us on social media - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rask.invest - TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rask.invest DISCLAIMER: This podcast contains general financial information only. That means the information does not take into account your objectives, financial situation, or needs. Because of that, you should consider if the information is appropriate to you and your needs, before acting on it. If you’re confused about what that means or what your needs are, you should always consult a licensed and trusted financial planner. Unfortunately, we cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information in this podcast, including any financial, taxation, and/or legal information. Remember, past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance. The Rask Group is NOT a qualified tax accountant, financial (tax) adviser, or financial adviser. Access The Rask Group's Financial Services Guide (FSG): https://www.rask.com.au/fsg