The surprise lender that could get you into a home

A record number of degree-holding South Australians achieved the Great Australian Dream thanks to a government-supported home loan during the past financial year, it can be revealed.

A record 1142 hopeful homeowners started their property journeys last year through HomeStart’s Graduate Loan – a loan aimed at people who have a Certificate III or higher and have a smaller available deposit.

SIGN UP NOW FOR OUR FREE REAL ESTATE NEWSLETTER

That number is up from 924 in the preceding financial year, and 619 the year before that.

In all, more than 9000 graduate loans have been approved since its introduction in 2002, with the loan allowing eligible recipients to get into their own home for as little as 2 per cent deposit to buy, or 5 per cent to build.

Tammie Collins, pictured in her home studio, has been able to buy her home through a HomeStart Graduate Loan. Photography by Kelly Barnes

One of these is car cleaner-turned-Flinders University and TAFE SA student Tammie Collins, 48, of Andrews Farm, who recently went back to study to pursue her dream of becoming a costume designer.

Mrs Collins and her husband Stephen also have a Starter Loan towards upfront costs and the Shared Equity option to boost borrowing power.

“HomeStart’s support was crucial,” Mrs Collins said.

Mrs Collins with her daughter Felicity, 16, wearing a costume Tammie designed as part of her studies. Photography by Kelly Barnes

“Because I was studying and only working part-time we didn’t have the income to support a loan with another lender.

“Without this loan we wouldn’t have a home.”

Mrs Collins’ home includes a detached room she uses as a studio. From here she has worked on costumes for the horror movie Diabolic and another upcoming movie The Sundowner.

MORE NEWS: Australia’s biggest political property moguls revealed

How much extra income you’ll need to buy in 2026

Decorated racing identity gallops into retirement

Prior to securing her loan, Ms Collins received an award sponsored by HomeStart received an award at the 2024 HomeStart Fashion and Costume Graduate Parade for a costume inspired by Jim Henson’s classic The Dark Crystal.

HomeStart CEO Andrew Mills said he was overjoyed that she had turned to the lender in order to achieve home ownership.

HomeStart chief executive officer Andrew Mills. Supplied

“We were thrilled that we could provide the recognition for Tammie’s designs through the award – and that she felt it helped her career,” Mr Mills said.

“Then to be able to help her buy her family’s home, we have helped fulfil two dreams.

“That’s exactly what HomeStart is here to do.”

MORE NEWS: Packer’s new buy part of huge $400m+ collection

MAFS star’s surprise home revelation

Decorated racing identity gallops into retirement

The post The surprise lender that could get you into a home appeared first on realestate.com.au.