KALEB Crossey has turned his homeownership dreams into reality.
The 27-year-old, who grew up in Burnie, says he wanted to achieve this sooner rather than later — and he had a strategy.
The idea was to enter the property market early, giving him the next 10 years to pay off his mortgage and set himself up for future investments, including possibly buying a second property down the track.
“I’ve always been pretty good with money. I make sure I spend less than I earn. It’s been a key to my success, and that’s how I’ve been able to save up for this home,” the courier driver said.
“I’m frugal, but not in a way that affects my quality of life. I don’t eat out much, I don’t waste money on things I don’t need.”
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After exploring property markets in other parts of the country, Mr Crossey decided to stay in Tasmania.
He considered Brisbane but found the property prices to be too high for what he was hoping to achieve.
“I knew I could get more for my money in Tasmania, and it was important for me to have a mortgage I could comfortably pay off,” he said.
In the last 12 months, Brisbane home prices have grown by 12 per cent, per PropTrack figures.
“Brisbane’s prices were just out of reach for what I wanted,” Mr Crossey said.
Mr Crossey purchased in Preolenna, a quiet, regional area about a 40-minute drive from Burnie.
He said the choice was an easy one.
“Preolenna is close enough to the ocean and also outdoor activities like hiking and camping,” he said.
Mr Crossey is thrilled to have a place to call his own.
“It’s a big milestone, and I’m happy it’s in a place I love. It just feels right,” he said.
“Not having to rent anymore is a huge relief. And the best part is I can have pets and renovate the house however I want.”