A First Home Buyer’s Guide to Perth’s Northern Suburbs

Why So Many First-Home Buyers Are Moving North

Perth’s northern corridor has evolved into one of WA’s most attractive growth regions. Suburbs stretching from Joondalup to Mariginiup offer a compelling combination of space, established infrastructure, and lifestyle benefits, with greater land availability and affordability than many suburbs closer to the CBD.

Affordability and Land Availability

Compared to inner-city areas, northern suburbs still provide access to affordable land and flexible building options. With house prices rising across established coastal suburbs, new land estates further north present a practical pathway into the market.

For buyers purchasing their first property, access to land releases at earlier price points can make all the difference. Instead of competing for an older existing home, buyers can design something suited to their lifestyle and budget.

Proximity to Amenities and Employment

The northern suburbs offer convenient access to major hubs like Joondalup, which includes Lakeside Joondalup Shopping Centre, ECU, Joondalup Health Campus, and significant employment centres. Beaches like Burns Beach and Iluka provide coastal lifestyle appeal without the premium price tag of inner-city coastal suburbs.

Upgraded freeway infrastructure and the Joondalup train line connect residents efficiently to the Perth CBD, making commuting practical.

Community Without Compromise

Modern estates are designed around green space and connection. Walkable streets, parks, playgrounds, and cycle paths create neighbourhoods that foster relationships while still offering urban convenience.

Botania Park, located between Lake Mariginiup and Lake Jandabup, is a prime example of this balance. Ideally located within the City of Wanneroo, it offers convenient access to everyday amenities and natural attractions. Whether you're running errands, meeting friends for coffee, or exploring the surrounding lakes and trails, everything you need is within reach.

First Home Buyer WA: Understanding the Building vs Buying Decision

One of the biggest decisions facing a First Home Buyer in WA is whether to purchase an established property or build new. Both pathways have advantages and trade-offs, and understanding them upfront will help you make a confident decision.

The Benefits of Building

Customisation

Building gives you control. From floorplan to finishes, you can design a home that reflects your lifestyle, rather than compromising on someone else’s layout choices. For many buyers, that flexibility is a major advantage.

Energy Efficiency

New homes are built to meet modern energy standards, which can reduce long-term running costs. Better insulation, efficient appliances, and contemporary design can mean lower power bills and improved comfort year-round.

Government Incentives

Building may make you eligible for first home buyer grants, including the $10,000 FHOG for new homes. Stamp duty concessions can also apply, helping reduce the initial financial pressure.

Lower Maintenance

With brand-new materials, fixtures, and appliances, you’re less likely to face unexpected repair costs in the early years compared to purchasing an older existing home.

The Cons of Building

While building offers flexibility, it does require planning and patience.

Timeframes

You’ll need to allow for the land settlement period followed by construction timelines. Unlike buying an established home, you won’t be able to move in immediately.

Upfront Costs

Site works, landscaping, fencing, window treatments, and upgrades can add to your overall budget if not factored in early.

Decision Fatigue

Choosing colours, finishes, layouts, and inclusions can be both exciting and overwhelming for buyers navigating the process for the first time.

Why Estates Like Botania Park Offer More Flexibility

This is where thoughtfully master-planned communities make a difference.

As part of the first stage of the State Government’s East Wanneroo expansion — a 50-year vision set to deliver 50,000 new homes — Botania Park offers first-home buyers a rare opportunity to buy early in one of Perth’s most significant growth corridors.

With varied lot sizes and price points, the estate caters to different budgets and lifestyles. Whether you’re looking for a compact, low-maintenance block or a larger family-sized lot, there’s flexibility built into the masterplan.

Importantly, buying in an emerging community also means you’re entering at an earlier stage of the suburb’s growth cycle. As infrastructure, schools, and retail amenities expand, the long-term value proposition strengthens.

Download the estate brochure.

First Home Owner Grant: What Eligible First Home Buyers Need to Know

For eligible first home buyers, Western Australia offers valuable assistance to reduce financial pressure.

The First Home Owner Grant currently provides $10,000 toward the purchase or construction of a new home. Additionally, stamp duty concessions may apply based on your purchase price, saving buyers tens of thousands of dollars.

It’s important to understand:

• Your borrowing capacity before making offers

• Whether you’ll need to pay lenders mortgage insurance if your deposit is below 20%

• How current interest rate rises may affect long-term affordability

Speaking with a broker early in the process ensures you understand your options and the structure of your home loan before committing.

5% Deposit Scheme and Help to Buy Scheme

The First Home Owner Grant is different from the Australian Government's 5% Deposit Scheme and other government grants. See information about the 5% Deposit Scheme.

First Home Buyer Tips for Getting Started

Entering the market can feel overwhelming, but breaking it into manageable steps makes it achievable.

1. Understand Your Numbers

Know your income, expenses, deposit, and likely mortgage repayments. A broker can assess your financial position and explain how different scenarios affect your repayments.

2. Explore Grants and Incentives

WA offers strong support for first-home buyers building new homes. Make sure you confirm eligibility for grants and stamp duty concessions.

3. Compare Builders Carefully

Look at inclusions, site cost transparency, build timelines, and reputation. A lower base price doesn’t always mean better value.

4. Think Long Term

Your first home doesn’t need to be your forever home. Consider resale potential and the broader growth story of the suburb.

Common Misconceptions About New Suburbs and Estates

For many first-home buyers, new suburbs and master-planned estates can feel unfamiliar — and with that unfamiliarity often comes hesitation. But much of the concern is based on outdated assumptions rather than today’s reality.

Let’s unpack some of the most common misconceptions and separate myth from fact.

“It’s More Expensive to Build”

In many cases, building can be comparable to purchasing an older property — especially when grants and concessions are factored in.

“New Suburbs Lack Infrastructure”

Modern master-planned estates are delivered alongside infrastructure planning. Schools, transport corridors, and retail precincts are often mapped out years in advance.

“You need a 20% Deposit”

While a 20% deposit avoids Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), many buyers enter the market with less. The key is understanding your financial position and risk tolerance.

Why Botania Park is Ideal for First-Home Buyers

Botania Park is more than a place to build a house; it’s a neighbourhood where life will flourish under a lush, green canopy of trees. Thoughtfully planned to offer a balance of nature and modern convenience, this is where families will thrive, friendships will grow, and memories will be made for generations.

Let's explore what makes Botania Park such an attractive choice for potential buyers:

Affordable Land with Future Vision

Botania Park provides affordable land within a structured masterplan in Mariginiup. Buying early in a growth corridor can position buyers for future capital growth as infrastructure expands.

Master-Planned Design

Located between Lake Mariginiup and Lake Jandabup, the estate integrates green corridors, public open space, and pedestrian links. Thousands of trees and sensitive landscaping create a sustainable and welcoming streetscape.

View the Masterplan.

Sustainable Community

Sustainability is at the heart of Botania Park. From conserving natural landscapes to building with innovative, low-impact materials, every detail has been designed to reduce our footprint and create a resilient, thriving community.

Recently achieving 6-Leaf EnviroDevelopment certification, residents can trust that Botania Park is built for a healthier, more sustainable future.

Diverse & Inclusive Housing Options

Botania Park offers a range of lot sizes and home types to suit families at all life stages and lifestyles. From first-home buyers to growing families and downsizers, the community is designed to be inclusive and welcoming for everyone

Education

East Wanneroo Primary School, Wanneroo Secondary College, St Anthony’s Primary, and ECU are nearby. The proposed Mariginiup Lake education hub will introduce two primary schools and a high school within walking distance.

For modern home buyers seeking long-term value, sustainability, and connectivity, Botania Park offers a compelling opportunity.