First Home Buyer Guide: Moreton Bay Region

Editor's note (July 2026): this article was originally published in January 2025 and has been updated. Queensland's first home buyer incentives changed on 1 July 2026, so the figures below reflect the current rules. For full eligibility detail, see our Queensland first home buyer guide.

Buying your first home is one of the most exciting milestones in life, and the Moreton Bay Region offers some of the best opportunities for first home buyers in southeast Queensland. With median house prices significantly lower than Brisbane's inner suburbs, areas like Caboolture, Morayfield, and Burpengary provide excellent entry points into the property market without sacrificing lifestyle or connectivity.

Government Grants and Incentives

Queensland first home buyers have never had more support. The Queensland First Home Owner Grant is $30,000 for new builds valued under $750,000 — it was due to halve on 1 July 2026, but the 2026-27 State Budget locked it in for another four years. On transfer duty it gets better: eligible first home buyers pay zero transfer duty on new homes and vacant land (no price cap on the new-home concession, now permanent), and a full concession applies on established homes up to $700,000, phasing out at $800,000. The federal 5% Deposit Scheme also lets eligible buyers purchase without paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance. Run your own numbers with the stamp duty calculator.

Best Suburbs for First Home Buyers

For those looking to maximise value, Caboolture and Morayfield offer median house prices well within reach of most first home buyers, with strong infrastructure and amenities. Burpengary and Deception Bay provide a step up with slightly higher price points but excellent community facilities and transport links. If your budget stretches further, Narangba and North Lakes deliver premium lifestyles with top-rated schools and modern amenities.

Tips for Getting Started

• Get pre-approved for your home loan before you start searching, and check your ceiling with the borrowing power calculator
• Research the suburb thoroughly, including future development plans and infrastructure projects
• Engage a local buyer's agent who understands the Moreton Bay market
• Factor in additional costs such as building inspections, conveyancing, and moving expenses
• Don't rush the process, take time to attend open homes and understand what you truly need

The Moreton Bay Region continues to experience population growth and infrastructure investment, and with zero transfer duty on new homes, first home buyers retain a genuine edge here. With the right preparation and professional guidance, owning your first home in this thriving corridor is well within reach — our full first home buyer guide covers every step.