GRANTS PAY DIVIDENDS
SIX months ago, the last thing on Campbell Evans’ mind was building a house.
But with the slab poured and $45,000 worth of government grants on offer, his new dream home is almost a reality.
The Townsville university student recently snapped up one of the last lots in Kalynda Close, a residential community in Bohle Plains.
Mr Evans said while the rest of the world turned upside down, he saw the perfect moment for him to enter the property market.
“With COVID, I wasn’t travelling or planning to do anything this year and I was saving lots,” he said.
“I had not even thought about it until July this year.
“When the grants came out, I saw an opportunity and I had enough saved.”
Mr Evans said he was able to save for the deposit while he was renting by working two jobs.
“I thought I better get my foot in the door earlier rather than later in case I missed out,” he said.
“It is very surreal to be honest.” Mr Evans will apply for the $15,000 First Home Owners’ grant, the $25,000 Homebuilder grant as well as the $5000 Regional Grant Incentive.
He said applicants must have their slabs poured in order to be entitled to the financial help.
Strong demand from buyers like Mr Evans has pushed a development company to release more land in Townsville.
Urbex Realty general manager Craig Covacich said the company released an additional 19 lots at its Callistemom release in Bohle Plains as a response to market enthusiasm after a run on sales.
“The demand we’re seeing as a result of the government grants and low interest rates is fantastic,” he said.
Mr Covacich said fast tracking the release meant buyers would still be able to meet the December contract deadline for the Home Builder’s grant.