With interest rates still incredibly low and 2022 a very new year as yet, there's no better time to start from scratch - and by scratch, we mean those itching to get into the market but who have continually held back. You may have great reasons for this hesitation, not the least of which are the difficulties that a global pandemic has wrought on your everyday life. But to quote some of our own favourite words, why not "be confident and go forth"  this year? Should I wait to buy? As we mentioned earlier, the Reserve Bank of Australia (RBA)'s record low cash rate of 0.1% is now into its 15th consecutive month with effectively no increase in sight. However, there's been plenty of rumours about when this will occur and some bank lenders are already accelerating their fixed interest rates in preparation for this moment. But bear in mind that even if the RBA raises the cash rate in March, the change won't change property prices or affect mortgage loans overnight. In answer to this month's RBA cash rate announcement, CoreLogic research director Tim Lawless said a strengthening economy, tightening labour market and open international borders could offset a significant downturn in the property market as the result of a cash rate increase. However, few industry experts believe an increased cash rate will not affect the property market in any way, with many now planning for a triple rate hike in this year alone. Fool's gold Bottom line: your hard-earned cash is worth more in the property market right now than it will be when interest rates rise - and they will rise at some point. There'll be a downturn in buyers but you'll also be able to borrow less - and buy less - than you would now. So, get in ASAP and make your money work for you while the going's still good! And don't forget.... As we mentioned last week, there are ways to beat the frenzied crowd to a great affordable home. First-home buyers can also pick up a one-off First Home Owner Grant (FHOG). While not every state offers FHOGs, many do, or they provide similar exemptions, reductions or concessions such as not needing to pay stamp duty, so this is an option worth considering. Where to now? We've given you a lot of things to think about, so feel free to scratch your head and ponder where all this information leaves you, as a first-home buyer. For starters, another RBA cash rate announcement is due on Tuesday afternoon so make a note of that date. But whether you're planning to buy, or already hold a mortgage loan, we're here to make your property journey an easy one. Lending Loop can give you competitive rates from more than 40 of Australia’s biggest banks and specialist lenders, help you refinance or find an investment possibility and basically, hold your hand throughout the entire property process. We have plenty more great loan advice and tips to give you as well so give us a call today at Lending Loop.