News

April 19, 2023 | IN Together Magazine | BY AVID | 3 min read

After years of saving, Victorian resident Monica Rizkalla got her foot on the property ladder, purchasing her first block of land in the Savana Wyndham Vale community at 27 years of age.

We sat down with Monica to hear about her journey, and her top tips for solo first home buyers.

What sparked your property purchase journey?

Getting into the property market was always a goal of mine growing up. It’s taken quite a while but last year, I finally made it!

What made you decide to build a new home, rather than purchase an established home?

Initially, I spent about a month looking for a well-established property, which was difficult with the budget I had. I put in a few offers on places I liked but kept getting knocked back, which was hard.

In the end, I had a look at house and land to see if building fell within my budget because I couldn’t get a first home owners grant through buying an established home. My broker said I could push a bit more if I could build, so I thought maybe I’d be able to access more within my budget through building

What did you end up purchasing?

I thankfully found land in the price range I was looking at and a home design that would fit the land. It’s a single-storey three-bedroom home, with an ensuite and walk-in-robe.

At the end of the day, for me it came down to deciding on the type of design. It’s a first home for 5-10 years but when I decide to have a family I will go bigger. For me, it was a matter of minimising the price of the house but finding where I can increase the value. If I took off an extra room, it may not be the best value maximiser when I go to sell one day.

What are your top tips for fellow solo female first home buyers?

Being single and buying on your own is hard – it takes so much longer than what a couple would take to purchase a property.

My advice would be to just take your time, don’t rush and save as much as you possibly can. You have to make small sacrifices, and if you have a target you have to weigh up what will be good for you in the long run.

What was the hardest part about buying your property?

Definitely the down payment, but once it’s done, it’ll be the best decision of your life.

What was the best thing about buying your property?

Buying a property gave me a real sense of ownership and having achieved a goal. I’ve never really been someone to rely on others, so it feels good to have that sense of comfort and stability.

To find out more about AVID Victoria, please visit www.avid.com.au/communities