A Simple Guide for First-Time Home Buyers in Melbourne

Buying your first home is exciting but it can also feel overwhelming. Between contracts, inspections, and compliance rules, it’s easy to miss something important.

At Ironbark Compliance, we help Melbourne first-time buyers make sure their home is safe, compliant, and built to current standards before costly issues arise.

What First‑Time Buyers Need to Know

1. Budget Beyond the Purchase Price

Along with your deposit and mortgage, remember to allow for:

  • Stamp duty (Victoria concessions may apply)
  • Conveyancing or legal fees
  • Building and pest inspections
  • Ongoing ownership and maintenance costs

2. New vs Established Homes

  • New homes must comply with the National Construction Code (NCC) and approved plans
  • Established homes may contain non‑compliant or unsafe work, especially if renovated

Independent inspections help identify issues before settlement.

3. Why Compliance Inspections Matter

Many first‑time buyers focus only on cosmetic issues. Compliance is just as important.

Ironbark Compliance checks whether:

  • Building work meets the NCC
  • Construction aligns with permits and approvals
  • Relevant Australian Standards are met

This reduces the risk of unexpected rectification costs later.

4. Buying or Building in Melbourne

Before you sign or settle, make sure:

  • Mandatory inspections are completed
  • Approved plans match what’s been built
  • A valid Occupancy Permit or Certificate of Final Inspection is issued

Ready to Buy With Confidence?

If you’re buying or building your first home in Melbourne, Ironbark Compliance can help you understand exactly where you stand.

👉 Book a compliance inspection or speak with our team to ensure your home meets NCC requirements and Victorian regulations.

Open Hours

Mon - Fri: 9am - 5pm

Sat: 9am - 12pm

Sun: Closed

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