Buying an off-the-plan apartment can be one of the most flexible, low-stress ways to secure your next property, particularly when you take advantage of modern deposit options like deposit bonds or Downsizer bonds.
These alternatives are helping more buyers, downsizers, first home buyers and investors, secure premium properties in South Australia without tying up large amounts of cash.
In this guide, we’ll explain:
- How to get started
- How off-the-plan deposits work
- Deposit bonds vs bridging loans
- Key pros and cons
- What happens if you sell your home first
- Government incentives and stamp duty savings
What is an off-the-plan deposit?
When you buy an apartment off the plan, you typically pay a 5% to 10% deposit when signing the contract of sale.
The balance is not due until settlement, after construction is complete (often 12–24 months later).
Your deposit is usually held in a secure solicitor’s trust account.
Good news: You don’t necessarily need to use a large cash deposit. Deposit Bonds or a Downsizer Bond (a specific product from the company Downsizer), can secure your property, giving you time to sell your home, access funds or simply keep your money working for you in the meantime.
Deposit options
| Deposit method | Key benefit |
| Cash deposit | Traditional method — funds held in trust |
| Deposit bond | Guarantees deposit — no cash outlay |
| Downsizer Bond | Uses equity in existing home — no cash required |
| Bank guarantee | Alternative to deposit bond — for some buyers |
What is a Downsizer Bond and how does it work?
A Downsizer Bond is a product offered by the company Downsizer. It allows eligible buyers (typically aged 55+) to use the equity in their current home to secure an off-the-plan purchase, with no upfront cash deposit required.
How it works:
- You apply for a bond (approval often within 48 hours)
- The bond guarantees your deposit, securing your new property
- You can keep your cash or investments working for you
- When your current home sells, you use those funds for final settlement
Deposit Bonds vs Bridging Loans
| Feature | Downsizer Bond | Bridging Loan |
| Deposit required | No cash required | Large loan + repayments |
| Interest charged | None | Yes, high interest |
| Flexibility | Up to 5 years | Usually 6–12 months |
| Total cost | Low one-off fee | High overall cost |
What if I sell my house first?
If you sell your home before settlement, no problem, your bond remains valid. You can then use your sale proceeds to complete the purchase at settlement.
Pros of buying off the plan (with or without a bond)
Secure today’s prices before further market rises
Pay a smaller upfront deposit — 5%–10% typical
Flexible settlement — 18–24 months in most cases
Time to save, invest or sell your current home
Customise finishes (on many projects)
Stamp duty and tax concessions may apply
Read more about Off-the-plan property vs existing homes: Pros, cons & what to know here.
Government incentives for off-the-plan buyers in South Australia
Buying off the plan can also help you access major financial incentives:
Stamp duty concessions
Potential savings depending on property type, timing and location. Read more about How to save thousands buying off the plan in South Australia here.
First Home Owner Grant
$15,000 grant for eligible buyers of new homes.
Super Contributions
If you’re 55+, contribute up to $300,000 per person from your home sale to super, with significant tax benefits.
TIP: Always check with your conveyancer or financial adviser to ensure you maximise all available savings.
Where is my deposit held and what happens to the interest?
Cash deposits are typically held in a solicitor’s trust account. Interest is generally low, but buyers can request any earned interest be returned to them
Deposit bonds or Downsizer Bonds involve no large cash transfer, just a small upfront fee, helping you maintain financial flexibility.
Example: How a deposit bond can save you cash
| Property value | $2,000,000 apartment |
| Deposit required | $200,000 (10%) |
| Deposit bond cost | Approx. $9,000–$12,000 (one-off fee) |
Rather than locking away $200K for 2 years, you can:
- Keep funds invested
- Pay down other debts
- Access cash when needed
- Maintain a stronger financial position overall
Is buying off the plan with a deposit bond right for you?
A deposit bond (or Downsizer Bond) is ideal if you want to:
- Keep your cash invested
- Avoid expensive bridging loans
- Buy before selling your current home
- Secure today’s price before further market growth
- Reduce out-of-pocket upfront costs
- Stay financially flexible
Off-the-Plan Deposit FAQs
Q: Can I buy off the plan with no cash deposit?
A: Yes, through a Downsizer Bond or deposit bond (subject to eligibility and project terms).
Q: What if my financial circumstances change during the build?
A: Your finance will be reassessed before settlement, always discuss timing with your mortgage adviser.
Q: Can I combine cash + bond?
A: Absolutely. Many buyers use a hybrid approach (for example, 50% bond + 50% cash).
Q: What if the developer delays completion?
A: Bonds can remain valid for up to 5 years (terms vary). Always check with your agent or solicitor.
Ultra Luxe apartments at Calibre – 22 Colley Terrace, Glenelg
For buyers using deposit bonds or buying off the plan, boutique projects like CALIBRE on Glenelg’s Colley Terrace are excellent examples of how accessible this path can be.
Developed by Griffin Group and designed by renowned architect TECTVS, CALIBRE offers 11 ultra-luxe residences with flexible deposits, ideal for buyers wanting time to sell, save or arrange finance.
With ocean views, premium finishes and a true lock-up-and-leave lifestyle, CALIBRE demonstrates how buying off the plan can open doors to premium property, even if you don’t have a large cash deposit ready today.
Your next steps
If you’re considering buying off the plan in South Australia talk to your agent and financial adviser first.
At SY Luxury Real Estate, we work with the most reputable developers and projects, ensuring our buyers:
- Access flexible deposit options
- Maximise available incentives
- Navigate the process with expert guidance
- Secure quality properties with confidence
Let’s Talk
Contact us today for tailored advice on buying off the plan and discover how you can secure your next property in 2025 without locking up your savings.
- Sharyn Yelland – 0417 867 383
- Brett Coombs – 0421 323 699
Glenelg
For Sale
22 Colley Terrace Glenelg SA
Apartment