How Deposit Bonds Help Secure Property Without Cash Upfront
Example: Using a Deposit Bond to Purchase a $1.5 Million Property
Scenario: You are buying a property priced at $1,500,000. Normally, a 10% deposit of $150,000 is required. Instead of paying cash upfront, you secure a deposit bond.
Step-by-Step Process
Application
Apply with a deposit bond provider (e.g., Deposit Power, QBE Insurance).
Undergo a financial assessment for off-the-plan or long-term bonds.
Issuance
Upon approval, the provider issues a $150,000 bond to the seller as a cash-deposit guarantee.
Cost
Short-term bond (up to 6 months): 1.2–1.3% of the deposit
• For $150,000: 1.2% = $1,800, 1.3% = $1,950 Long-term bond (up to 48–60 months): ~3% per year of the deposit
• For $150,000: 3% = $4,500 per year
Settlement
Pay the full $1.5 million (including the deposit) at settlement.
The bond expires once payment is complete.
If you default, the issuer pays $150,000 to the seller and recovers that amount from you.
Summary
Item
Value/Description
Property Purchase Price
$1,500,000
Standard Deposit (10%)
$150,000
Short-Term Bond Fee (1.2%)
$1,800
Short-Term Bond Fee (1.3%)
$1,950
Long-Term Bond Fee (3%/yr)
$4,500 per year
Deposit Bond Validity
Until settlement
Cash Required Upfront
Only the bond fee
Full Payment at Settlement
$1,500,000
Key Points
Vendor Acceptance: Confirm the seller or agent accepts deposit bonds before proceeding.
Financial Obligation: You remain liable for both the deposit and the full purchase price.
Non-Refundable Fee: Bond fees are generally non-refundable unless returned unused within a set period.
Consultation: Seek advice from a conveyancer or financial advisor to ensure suitability.
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