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Karisa, a proud Bundjalung woman, and her partner Dylan, long-term renters, have long aspired to provide a stable and secure home for their growing family. For Karisa, this journey carries special significance, she will be among the first in her family to achieve home ownership, marking a generational milestone and a source of immense pride.
After years of planning and financial discipline, Karisa and Dylan put themselves in a position to pursue this goal. They worked diligently to improve their financial standing, including paying off all consumer debts, which significantly increased their borrowing capacity.
Like many first home buyers, Karisa and Dylan faced a tough property market. Prices were rising, competition was fierce, and finding a home within budget felt overwhelming.
"There were times we thought, ‘Will this ever happen?’" Dylan admits. "But we stayed focused and kept pushing forward."
Their journey involved sacrifices and determination:
"The workshops were amazing, they gave us the knowledge and confidence to take the next steps," says Karisa.
Karisa and Dylan’s experience reflect what many Australians are going through right now. High property prices and limited housing stock make it harder to find a suitable home, especially for first-time buyers. For families with children, balancing affordability with the need for space adds another layer of stress. On top of that, navigating complex lending requirements and understanding what lenders look for can feel overwhelming without the right guidance.
As one of the first in her family to own a home, Karisa knows how significant this achievement is. Her advice to others:
We know the current housing market is challenging, and not everyone will find a home by Christmas. But Karisa and Dylan’s story show that with determination and the right support, home ownership can become a reality. "Holding those keys and knowing this is ours forever, that feeling is worth every step," Dylan shares.
One thing that made a huge difference for Karisa and Dylan was their strong support network. Their family encouraged them through the tough times, celebrated the small wins, and reminded them why they were working so hard.
"Having that support behind us kept us going," Karisa shares. "They believed in us even when we doubted ourselves."
This sense of community and family pride made the moment they received their keys even more special.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you’re ready to talk home loans, contact IBA today. Or visit our website for more information on how we can help you achieve home ownership.
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