WHEN Jade Timmins flicked on the television just in time to see the federal Treasurer, Wayne Swan, announce that the first-home buyer's grant would be extended by six months, her heart leapt.
"I called my partner, Billy, at footy training - he was so happy," the 25-year-old said.
Billy Cameron, 26, has started a small business. But he has not been in the job long enough to accrue the two years' worth of tax returns needed to secure the first-home buyers grant.
"It's been really, really hard. We have been trying since November but none of the banks or mortgage lenders will consider us.
"With the economy the way it is, I think the banks and lenders are way too nervous."
Because of their difficulty in securing a loan, had the Government elected not to continue the grant after June 30, as some had predicted, the couple's chances of borrowing money would have been dealt a serious blow.
And, although the Government is offering more money for first-home buyers who buy a newly built home, Ms Timmins did not think that was an option for her.
"Generally the plot of land you get with the new-builds is smaller, and we are looking for somewhere with a bigger backyard," she said.
"We're both very happy - 7000 bucks is not that much money but when someone is giving it to you it's a big help."
