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IMPACTS
At Hume Bank, we’re passionate about providing fair access to housing, especially as first home buyers struggle due to increasing cost of living pressures. We encourage first home buyers to reach out to our lending coaches to see how we can support you to reach your home ownership goals.
We’re always looking for new ways to help people into their first home and make it as stress-free as possible. We partnered with a local land developer and builders on an innovative pilot program called Home Start Advantage. Working alongside Nordcon, Alatalo Bros and Hadar Homes, Hume Bank offered home loans to approved Home Start Advantage purchasers so they can have their very own place to call home sooner.
At 23 and 24 years, Ben and Ellen could barely imagine owning a home, let alone building one. But now, thanks to Hume Bank, Nordcon Land and Hadar Homes, they’re building the home of their dreams.
Since meeting five years ago, the couple has always looked ahead – from long-distance romance, to relocating Ellen to Albury from Mildura, moving in together and getting married. Then just as the next step of buying a home together seemed like it might take some time, they chanced upon the Home Start Advantage program helping first home buyers get their foot in the door sooner.
“We had set a budget, but everything was either too expensive or just not the right fit for where we are in our lives,” Ellen said “Then we saw the program,” Ben added, “and felt a bit uncertain because there were only six places available. We applied anyway and were shocked when we heard back within a week.”
The Home Start Advantage Program meant that with a small deposit, Ben and Ellen were able to get into the market with less risk. As part of this program, Hume Bank waived the Lenders Mortgage Insurance and provided a better interest rate usually only available with larger deposits.
Ben and Ellen’s loan was approved and they started building their dream home within months; they’re due to move in by December 2024. According to Ellen, the Home Start Advantage changed their lives.
“We’re just so grateful and excited for the future.”
Check our Ben and Ellen’s full story in their words below.