Revolutionising Homeownership: How Home Affordability Solutions Is Bridging the Gap

The Australian housing market is notorious for its high barriers to entry, leaving many aspiring homeowners feeling locked out. But what if there was a way to reduce the deposit burden while maintaining full ownership of your property?

In this episode of the Australian Property Investment Podcast, host Aaron Christie-David sat down with Beth Comino, founder of Home Affordability Solutions (HAS), to discuss how this innovative model is transforming the way Australians achieve homeownership. Watch the full episode here.

What Is Home Affordability Solutions?

Home Affordability Solutions is a unique financial model designed to tackle one of the biggest hurdles for homebuyers: saving a deposit. Using an innovative shared equity structure, HAS provides buyers with a significant deposit boost, making property ownership more achievable.

Unlike traditional shared equity schemes, HAS ensures that buyers maintain full control over their property. The HAS model is accessible to a wide range of buyers, from first-home buyers to investors and even those re-entering the market after major life changes.

How Does Shared Equity Work in HAS?

At the heart of HAS is its shared equity approach, which differs significantly from other equity-sharing schemes. Here’s a breakdown:

  • Traditional Shared Equity: In many schemes, buyers and an external entity (such as the government) co-own the property. This means the buyer may have restrictions on modifying, selling, or refinancing the property.
  • HAS Shared Equity: HAS retains a second mortgage to secure its contribution but does not take ownership of the property. Buyers enjoy full control, including the ability to make improvements or sell without additional permissions.

When the buyer refinances or sells the property, HAS recoups its initial contribution plus a share of any capital growth. This shared gain is clearly outlined upfront, ensuring transparency and fairness.

How the HAS Model Works

Here’s how Home Affordability Solutions bridges the gap for buyers:

1. Deposit Boost

Buyers are required to contribute just 2.5% of the purchase price as a deposit. HAS steps in with an additional 17.5%, bringing the total deposit to 20%. This eliminates the need for lenders mortgage insurance (LMI), saving buyers thousands of dollars.

2. Low-Interest Rates

The HAS facility offers a fixed interest-only rate of 3.25% for five years. This low rate helps buyers manage their repayments during the crucial early years of homeownership.

3. Shared Equity Return

HAS’s contribution is secured via a second mortgage. When the buyer refinances or sells, they repay the original contribution plus a portion of the property’s capital growth. This allows HAS to reinvest in other buyers while keeping the system sustainable.

4. Flexibility Across Buyer Types

The program is designed to work for:

  • First-home buyers
  • Property investors
  • Divorcees re-entering the market
  • Homeowners refinancing under financial strain

Benefits of HAS Over Traditional Options

Many Australians rely on family guarantors, government grants, or schemes like LMI waivers to access the property market. HAS offers an independent and more transparent alternative:

  • Independence: No reliance on family as guarantors or significant upfront cash gifts.
  • Transparency: Clear terms for shared equity returns, ensuring no surprises during refinancing or sale.
  • Lower Initial Costs: A 2.5% deposit requirement makes entry more accessible.
  • Support for Long-Term Stability: HAS factors in repair costs and includes the first three years of its facility repayments in the loan to reduce financial stress.

Real Success Stories

Home Affordability Solutions has already changed the lives of many Australians.

  • From a Caravan to Two Properties: A family of four living in a caravan used HAS to buy their first home. Within two years, they leveraged the model again to secure an investment property.
  • Empowering Divorcees: Divorcees are one of HAS’s largest client segments. The program offers a way to rebuild financial stability and regain property ownership after separation.
  • Investor Expansion: Investors have also benefited from HAS’s deposit boost, allowing them to grow their portfolios with minimal upfront costs.

How HAS Works for Investors

HAS is not just for first-home buyers—it’s a powerful tool for property investors as well. The model allows investors to secure properties with reduced upfront capital, enabling them to expand their portfolios sustainably.

Key features for investors include:

      • Minimal Deposit Requirements: Only 2.5% upfront.
      • Grace Period for Repairs: The inclusion of the first three years of HAS facility repayments provides financial flexibility.

      • Repeatability: Investors can use the HAS model multiple times to build their portfolios.

Why Shared Equity Matters Now

In a market where saving for a deposit is becoming increasingly difficult, shared equity offers a realistic solution. HAS’s innovative approach ensures buyers retain ownership while addressing financial barriers.

For those looking to invest, HAS provides an opportunity to maximise returns with minimal risk. The model bridges the gap between affordability and independence, making it a game-changer in the Australian property market.

Home Affordability Solutions is revolutionising how Australians achieve property ownership. By combining financial innovation with accessibility, HAS is empowering more people to turn their property dreams into reality.

If you’re ready to take the next step, reach out to Home Affordability Solutions to learn more. Whether you’re a first-home buyer, investor, or someone seeking to re-enter the market, HAS could be the key to unlocking your future in property.