Top Gold Coast Home and Land Packages for First-Time Buyers

Breaking into the property market as a first-time buyer on the Gold Coast can feel overwhelming—but recent government measures are helping tilt the scales in your favour.

In Queensland, the First Home Owner Grant (FHOG) has been doubled to AUD $30,000 for new builds (including home and land packages) where the total price is under $750,000 (land included) for eligible buyers.

This substantial incentive, backed by transfer duty concessions, is aimed at reducing the upfront burden for newcomers to the property ladder and making Gold Coast home and land packages much more accessible.

With this kind of financial support in place, first-time buyers are in a better position than ever to consider home and land packages in the Gold Coast area.

These packages typically bundle together the cost of the land, the construction of a brand-new home, site works, and sometimes extras like driveways or landscaping.

For first timers, this can mean fewer surprises and more control over costs.

What First-Time Buyers Should Look for in a Home & Land Package

Discover key tips first-time buyers need when choosing Gold Coast home and land packages, from location to inclusions, value, and builder quality.

Location & Growth Potential
The Gold Coast has growth areas that are still relatively affordable, such as northern suburbs and outer fringe estates. Look for packages in places with good future infrastructure—access to schools, transport (roads or public transit), shopping, and recreation. These features not only improve liveability but protect your investment value.
Inclusions & Quality
Not every quote is equal. A basic package may include only the shell and bare-bones finishes, while others will offer better standard inclusions (flooring, cabinetry, fixtures). Be clear on what’s included, what counts as an upgrade, and which extras might cost more down the track.
Builder Reputation & Warranty
Choose a reputable builder with good reviews, transparent pricing, and warranty protection. First-time buyers benefit from not only getting a new home but also from knowing it’s built to code and has after-sales support.
Cost & Financing Terms
With the $30,000 grant and potential stamp duty savings (up to certain thresholds), it’s easier to manage upfront costs. But you’ll still need deposit funds, closing costs, loan fees, and regular repayments. Do your math on all of that before committing. Also check if the land component has any levies or special charges.

Sample Packages & Price Ranges

Here are hypothetical examples based on what’s currently being offered in the region (prices approximate):

Starter Package: ~ 3-bed / 2-bath, 400-500 m² lot in outer northern Gold Coast suburbs. Land + build ~ AUD $650,000-$700,000, with modest finishes.
Mid-Level Package: Slightly larger block (600m²), upgraded inclusions, better appliances or cabinetry, in suburbs closer to amenities. Price ~ AUD $750,000-$850,000. (Some of these might exceed the FHOG cap depending on land + build cost.)
Premium Entry-Level Package: Higher quality finishes, maybe some designer touches, possibly closer to coast or transport. Expect prices upward of AUD $900,000+.

Making the Most of Available Incentives

Verify eligibility: Make sure the house and land package contract (inc land + build + any contract variations) is under the $750,000 threshold if you want to make full use of the $30,000 grant.
Check for stamp duty exemptions or concessions: First home concession thresholds are increased in Queensland (for new homes and land), which can also save thousands.
Negotiate upfront: Sometimes builders offer incentives (lower upgrade fees, staggered payments, or freebies) especially if you act early in a new development.

For first-time buyers on the Gold Coast, home and land packages represent one of the best pathways into home ownership right now—especially given the grant boosts and concessions.

With careful planning, knowing what you want, and ensuring you understand all the costs, you could secure a modern, durable home in an area with growth potential—all without stretching beyond your means.

If you like, I can pull up current real home and land packages available in Gold Coast suburbs under the $750,000 budget (or your preferred range), so you can compare side by side.