First-Home Buyer Tips for Hobart Residents in 2025

John Ferguson • May 5, 2025

First-Home Buyer Tips for Hobart Residents in 2025

Buying your first home is a major milestone — and if you’re doing it in Hobart, you’re entering one of Australia’s most unique and tightly held property markets. With steady demand, limited stock, and solid long-term growth, Hobart remains a smart (but competitive) place to buy your first home. Here’s what every first-home buyer in Tasmania should know in 2025.

1. Understand Your Budget — Including Hidden Costs

Before you fall in love with a property, know exactly how much you can borrow and how much it will cost to purchase. Speak to a mortgage broker or bank to get pre-approved.

Common first-home costs include:

• Deposit (typically 5%–20%)

• Stamp duty (concessions available — see below)

• Conveyancing/legal fees

• Building and pest inspections

• Mortgage application or LMI (Lender’s Mortgage Insurance)

You can use the Loan Market Burrowing Calculator to see how much you can burrow here!

2. Take Advantage of First-Home Buyer Support in Tasmania

As of 2025, eligible first-home buyers in Tasmania may access:

• First Home Owner Grant (FHOG): Up to $30,000 for new builds

• Stamp duty concessions: Available for purchases under a set threshold (check the SRO Tasmania website)

• Federal Help to Buy Scheme: Shared equity program offering low-deposit options (subject to income caps and property value limits)

Check your eligibility and speak to a broker who can walk you through the application process.

3. Research Suburbs That Offer Value

Hobart’s inner-city suburbs may be out of reach for many first-home buyers, but there are still great options with growth potential.

Top suburbs for first-home buyers in 2025:

• Glenorchy: Affordable with strong infrastructure and transport links

• Moonah: Trendy, gentrifying, and close to the CBD

• Claremont: River views, good schools, and new developments

• Bridgewater/Gagebrook: Entry-level prices with long-term upside

• Kingston: Popular with young families, close to beaches and amenities

4. Don’t Skip the Inspections

A professional building and pest inspection is essential — especially for older homes. It can uncover hidden problems that may impact your budget or safety.

5. Be Realistic (and Ready to Move Fast)

Hobart is still a competitive market, especially in the sub-$600k range. Set realistic expectations, and be prepared to act quickly when the right home appears. A pre-approval and a clear idea of what you want will give you an edge.

6. Get the Right Team Around You

Surround yourself with experienced professionals:

• A local real estate agent who understands the market

• A broker who specialises in first-home loans

• A conveyancer who can explain the contract and help avoid legal pitfalls

7. Think Long-Term

Even if your first home isn’t your forever home, make a smart purchase with future resale or rental appeal in mind. Look for:

• Solid construction

• Good location and amenities

• Off-street parking

• Opportunity to add value later

Final Thoughts

Buying your first home in Hobart in 2025 may feel daunting, but with the right advice and preparation, it’s completely achievable. Get informed, act strategically, and don’t be afraid to ask for help — it’s what we’re here for.

Ready to make your first move? I specialise in helping first-home buyers navigate Hobart’s property market — from search to settlement. Reach out today! Click Here!

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New town real estate market update q2 2025 by ray white hobart

New Town Quarterly Market Update

By John Ferguson • June 11, 2025

Market Snapshot New Town Houses Median Sale Price: $820,000 12-Month Change: -11.1% (from $922,500) Number of Sales: 57 (Apr '24 – Mar '25) Price Range: $385,000 – $2,000,000 Highest Sale: $1,870,000 – Bellevue Parade, Jan 2025 Units Median Price: $499,000 12-Month Growth: +7.0% Rental Yield: 4.6% Median Rent: $440 per week Houses for Rent Median Rent: $595 per week Rental Yield: 3.8% Number of Rentals: 111 📍 Key Market Insight While the overall median price for houses in New Town declined by 11.1% year-on-year, the suburb remains highly desirable, with multiple six-figure sales and rapid turnover for renovated or character homes under $1M. Investors will be interested to note that unit prices are rising, and rental yields remain strong. "We're seeing solid demand for updated family homes and growing investor interest in the unit market." — John Ferguson, Ray White Hobart

A picnic table in a park with a tree in the background

Hidden Gem Neighborhoods in and Around Hobart You Need to Know About

By John Ferguson • May 26, 2025

If you're house hunting in Hobart, you're probably already familiar with popular (and pricey) suburbs like Sandy Bay, Battery Point, and West Hobart. But what if we told you there are underrated, up-and-coming areas offering lifestyle, charm, and solid value—all without the eye-watering price tags? Whether you're a first-home buyer, savvy investor, or simply looking for a quieter lifestyle, here are three hidden gem neighbourhoods in the Hobart area you should absolutely have on your radar. 📍 New Town – Artsy, Walkable, and Full of Soul Just 4km from the Hobart CBD, New Town is one of Hobart’s oldest suburbs, and it's quickly becoming one of its coolest. With its heritage charm, leafy streets, and a growing community of creatives and young professionals, New Town is the Inner North of Hobart. Why You'll Love It: ✅ Excellent public transport and walkability ☕ Trendy cafes, local bakeries, and boutique shops 🏛️ Close to schools, parks, and the Royal Hobart Hospital Median House Price (2025): ~$815,000 Rental Yield: ~3.7% 📈 Investor insight: With rental demand on the rise and limited stock, New Town offers steady capital growth and great rental potential. 🎉 Mount Stuart – Close to the City, Big on Lifestyle If you’re after family-friendly living just minutes from the CBD, Mount Stuart ticks all the boxes. Tucked into the foothills of Knocklofty Reserve, this suburb offers stunning views, quiet streets, and some of Hobart’s most respected schools. Why You'll Love It: 🏫 Zoned for top primary and secondary schools 🌿 Walking trails, parks, and green spaces 🚘 Just a 5-minute drive to Hobart CBD Median House Price (2025): ~$935,000 Rental Yield: ~3.2% 👪 Perfect for: Young families, professionals, and upsizers looking for more space without compromising on location. 🌳 Lenah Valley – Green, Peaceful, and Family-Friendly Tucked between Mount Wellington and the city, Lenah Valley combines nature with convenience. Think tree-lined streets, friendly neighbours, and a real sense of community—without feeling disconnected from the city buzz. Why You'll Love It: 🌄 Backdrop of the mountains and bushland 🛍️ Growing café and retail strip on Augusta Road 🏥 Close to Calvary Hospital and other amenities Median House Price (2025): ~$780,000 Rental Yield: ~3.9% 🌱 Local secret: A great area for first-home buyers who want affordability, liveability, and growth potential. ✨ Summary: Hobart’s Hidden Gems Deliver Big Value While the usual suspects steal the spotlight, these under-the-radar suburbs offer exceptional lifestyle benefits, strong investment potential, and a more grounded, authentic feel of Hobart living.