How Much Does It Cost to Buy a House in Australia 2026

Calculate the true total cost of buying a home — property price, stamp duty, legal fees, inspections, monthly holding costs, and a 5-year projection.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What costs are involved in buying a house in Australia?

Beyond the property price, buyers pay stamp duty (transfer duty), legal/conveyancing fees ($2,000–$4,000), building and pest inspections ($500–$1,500), loan application fees ($0–$1,000), title insurance ($300–$700), and miscellaneous costs such as moving, utilities connection, and council rate adjustments. The total upfront costs typically add 4–6% on top of the purchase price.

How much cash do I need to buy a house?

You generally need a deposit (typically 10–20% of the purchase price), plus stamp duty and upfront fees. For a $1,000,000 property with a 20% deposit, expect to need roughly $270,000–$300,000 in cash depending on your state.

What are the ongoing costs of owning a home?

Monthly holding costs include mortgage repayments, council rates ($200–$500/month), home and contents insurance ($150–$300/month), water and sewerage rates ($50–$120/month), maintenance, and potentially strata/body corporate fees for apartments.

Do first home buyers pay less?

Most Australian states offer stamp duty concessions or exemptions for first home buyers, and the federal First Home Owner Grant may also apply for new builds. Eligibility and thresholds vary by state and property value. Consult your conveyancer for specific entitlements.

How much does stamp duty cost?

Stamp duty varies by state and property price. For a $1,000,000 property, duty ranges from roughly $30,000 in the ACT to over $45,000 in some states. Use our dedicated Stamp Duty Calculator for exact figures by state.

Disclaimer: These calculations are estimates based on general rates. Legal fees, inspection costs, council rates, and insurance vary by location and provider. First home buyer concessions are not included in stamp duty calculations. Always consult a qualified conveyancer or financial advisor for exact costs.

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