- Free Of Charge Service!
- 0414 646 513
- 36 Marine Parade, Southport QLD 4215
- 36 Marine Parade, Southport QLD 4215
- 0414 646 513
- Free Of Charge Service!
- Free Of Charge Service!
Buying or building your first home in Queensland can sometimes feel overwhelming especially if you are stuck ‘doing life’ and have limited spare time. Between finance approvals, contracts, and grant applications, it’s easy to lose track of the right timing, especially when it comes to lodging the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG).
One of the most common questions first home buyers ask is: “When should I apply? Is it best to do it before settlement, after, or during construction?”
The answer depends on your situation, but getting the timing right can make a big difference to how soon you receive the funds and how smoothly your settlement or build progresses. Getting expert help with lodging these documents can also take a huge weight off your shoulders.
At Property Acquire, we assist buyers with preparing and lodging all types of documentation for government incentives (including the FHOG) to ensure everything is handled correctly and on time.
If you’re looking to fully understand how the FHOG works in Queensland, we are here to break it all down including how it applies, when to lodge, and the key rules to keep in mind for 2025.
The First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) is a Queensland Government initiative that helps first home buyers get into the property market sooner.
As of 2025, eligible buyers can receive $30,000 toward a brand-new home, whether it’s a new build, an off-the-plan purchase, or a recently completed property.
To qualify, you must:
The FHOG can go a long way in covering your upfront costs or reducing your loan amount — but when you apply determines how and when that money is paid.
The ideal timing depends on how you’re purchasing your home. Whether you’re buying a newly completed property, purchasing off-the-plan, or building a new one.
If you’re buying a newly built or off-the-plan home, it’s best to apply as soon as your contract is signed and before settlement. Doing so allows your lender to submit the FHOG application early and ensures the $30,000 can be applied directly at settlement.
This can ease your financial pressure significantly since you’ll need to contribute less upfront. For example, if you purchase a $750,000 home in Ripley, applying early means your FHOG can offset part of your deposit or settlement funds.
If you’re building, you can apply as soon as your build contract is signed, but the funds are typically released when your first construction drawdown is due. This is usually when the build is at the slab stage. That’s why it’s important to have your FHOG application approved well before construction starts, so there are no hold-ups when your builder sends the first invoice.
Applying before settlement is generally the best choice for most buyers. It ensures the funds are ready when you need them and can make your finance process smoother.
If you missed applying earlier, don’t worry you can still apply after settlement or construction, as long as it’s within 12 months of completion
In short: applying before settlement is the most efficient and stress-free way to receive your FHOG on time. Applying later is still possible, but less practical for buyers relying on the funds upfront.
There are two main ways to apply, depending on how you’re financing your home.
Most buyers choose this option. We will:
This method is usually the fastest, with processing times of around 5–10 business days. It also ensures your grant is aligned with your home loan disbursement.
If you’re not using a lender, you can apply directly through the QRO. You’ll need to download and complete the application form, provide certified copies of your ID and contracts, and submit everything by post or in person.
Processing generally takes four to six weeks, so make sure you allow enough time before you need the funds.
You can find the form and full instructions here:
A few common errors can delay your FHOG or even void your eligibility. Avoid these pitfalls:
Double-check your documents and timing early in the process to avoid unnecessary delays.
Applying for the FHOG at the right time can make a big difference to your home-buying journey.
If you’re buying off-the-plan or a completed home, apply early so the grant can be paid at settlement. If you’re building, apply once your construction contract is signed so the funds are available for your first progress payment. And if you’ve already settled, remember you still have up to 12 months to lodge directly with the Queensland Revenue Office.
At Property Acquire, we help first home buyers across Queensland understand the FHOG rules and align their applications with their finance process. We take care of the paperwork and application steps from start to finish, ensuring everything runs smoothly so you can focus on your day-to-day life without the stress.
No. You must have a signed contract for a new home or build before applying. However, you can check your eligibility with us!
You’ll still qualify as long as you move in within 12 months of completion. Just let the QRO know if your build takes longer than expected.
Yes, but only once your building contract is signed – the FHOG applies to the home build, not the land purchase.
You can still apply up to 12 months after completion. The grant will simply be paid later as a lump sum.