News Corp Australia Network

CHELSEA Smith has jumped every hurdle put in front of her on the track to homeownership.

And now, with fingers crossed, she is hoping to secure a house and land package north of Hobart.

The 31-year-old events co-ordinator said it had been challenging.

“Doing this by myself … I have felt like I was behind the eight-ball compared to couples who might have more money available,” she said.

How much it costs to buy a home in Hobart >>

“Another barrier is understanding how property pricing works. It can seem vague.

“I had an experience where the reason why I missed out — with an offer that was over the asking price — was unexplainable and very frustrating.

“However, I’m now looking at using the MyHome scheme for a house and land package, and I am appreciative that this type of assistance is available to people.”

MORE: Crypto mania: Tas property for a Bitcoin

Agent’s tips for securing a rental property

Chelsea likes Hobart’s northern suburbs, but says she would buy the right property for her in almost any area. Picture: Roger Lovell

---

Miss Smith started looking at what was available in September last year, from new homes to existing homes to land to build on.

She said saving a deposit for a home was only the beginning, with stamp duty another obstacle to be aware of, depending on your homeownership choices.

“This does make building more attractive, as you are only paying duty on the land purchase,” she said.

“Without MyHome, which requires a 2 per cent minimum deposit, I think saving a 20 per cent deposit sounds almost impossible.”

Chelsea Smith.

---

Harcourts Signature agent Mark Brudenell has been a source of expert advice for Chelsea.

---

Finding land where she wants to live has been an OK experience. However, Miss Smith said the price of land seems to be rising.

“It’s tricky to get the numbers to work when the goalposts move,” she said.

“Figuring out what you can actually afford with different types of properties or the schemes that are available is a delicate balancing act.”