When you’re starting your property journey — especially here in WA where competition is high and pressure is building — the first thing most people do is talk to a broker.

And honestly, that’s a great step.

The broker looks at your income, expenses, and credit score and tells you something like:

“You should be good to borrow $600,000.”

And that becomes the magic number. The house-hunting starts. The excitement kicks in.

But here’s my advice:

🛑 Pump the brakes before you start searching

Just because the bank says you can borrow it, doesn’t mean you should.

The bank’s job is to look at your numbers.
Your job is to think about your lifestyle.

💸 Try this instead: Mortgage test drive

Before you commit to anything, try this:

• Work out what your repayments would be — including rates, insurance, and a buffer.
• Transfer that amount into a separate account each month.
• Live like you’re already paying that mortgage.

Now ask yourself:
• Can I still go out with friends?
• Can I enjoy the occasional weekend away?
• Am I dipping into savings to stay afloat?

🙃 The risk of rushing in

The last thing you want is to buy a home and realise you’re tied to it — emotionally and financially.

Suddenly there’s no budget for dinners, trips, or spontaneous joy. And that excitement of buying a home starts to feel like pressure.

🏡 You can still buy property and enjoy your life

You might just need to adjust your expectations a little.

Different suburb? One less bedroom? A longer timeline?

That’s okay. It’s better to buy well than buy stressed.

🙋‍♀️ Bonus tip: Banks love this too

By doing a “mortgage test drive”, you’re showing the bank that you’re not just ready on paper — you’re ready in practice.

They’ll have more confidence in you. And even better? You’ll have more confidence in yourself.

Final thoughts

Don’t let excitement lead you into a mortgage trap. Test your comfort zone before you commit.

And if you want more straight-up, WA-specific advice to guide you through the buying process, Property Uncut was built for you.

You don’t need to figure it all out alone. We’re here to help — from confused and overwhelmed, to confident and in control.