🔥 Strata Risks: Fire Orders and Special Levies Explained
Strata buildings might appeal as an affordable way to get onto the property ladder, but some hide expensive secrets. Veronica shares what buyers must know about fire orders—council-mandated safety upgrades that can cost owners thousands. She explains why it's critical to read strata reports carefully, understand special levies, and check whether the building has an up-to-date Annual Fire Safety Certificate. This insight helps you avoid financial shocks after you buy.

📈 When to Buy: Timing vs. Readiness in a Rising Market
Listener Will asks the million-dollar question: should you buy now or wait for the perfect property? Meighan and Veronica debunk the myth of the "perfect home" and explain why compromise is unavoidable—no matter your budget. They emphasise buying when you're financially ready rather than trying to outsmart market trends. When low supply and high demand drives prices up, the key is to identify acceptable compromises and move strategically when opportunity strikes.

💰 First Home Buyer Grants vs. Better Property Choices
Mahesh is a financially savvy buyer trying to make the most of first home buyer incentives. But Veronica warns against letting government grants dictate your buying decisions. They unpack the risks of choosing a lower-quality asset just to qualify for savings like stamp duty exemptions. Instead, they recommend thinking like an investor: buy the best quality asset you can afford in a well-located, established area. They also strongly recommend seeking advice from an independent financial planner—not one aligned with developers or investment product sales.

🌊🌪️ Climate Change: How to Weigh Fire, Flood & Heat Risks
A timely and often overlooked topic—Melissa asks how climate risks should influence your buying decision. Meighan gives a regional perspective, explaining how flood zones, fire risk, and even urban heat islands can affect not just livability but long-term property value. The hosts share tips on how to research these risks via council websites and highlight how features like shade, insulation, and airflow will become increasingly important in property selection.

🏚️ Rent-to-Buy Schemes: Too Good to Be True?
Listener Praveen explores rent-to-buy deals as a pathway into the market. Veronica and Meighan unpack the many layers of risk involved—from inflated purchase prices and limited builder choices to predatory contracts. They stress the importance of legal advice and full due diligence before signing anything. You'll learn what red flags to watch for and why these schemes often benefit the provider more than the buyer.

🧠 Final Takeaways: Knowledge is Power
Episode 10 is a taster of some of what you need know before buying your first home in Australia—straight from the trenches. You'll walk away with:
A deeper understanding of hidden risks in strata properties
Clarity on whether to jump in or wait during a rising market
Advice on using grants wisely—not blindly
Tools to evaluate climate-related risks
Cautionary insights into rent-to-buy arrangements

Veronica and Meighan don't just answer questions—they empower you to ask better ones. Their honest, experience-rich advice will help you make smarter choices on your property journey.

👉 Ready to get started? Check out THE First Home Buyer Course.