Budget 2026 matters for first-time home buyers because fiscal measures (stamp duty, RPGT, income tax reliefs, credit guarantees) and broader cost‑of‑living changes shape entry costs, financing capacity and market supply. Key points: the 100% stamp duty exemption for first‑time buyers on homes ≤RM500,000 (extended to 31 Dec 2027) is the most immediate relief; RPGT settings influence resale supply and price stability; income tax reliefs offer long‑term but not upfront cash benefits; indirect tax and living‑cost changes affect borrowing capacity; and state of readiness (cash for stamp duty, documentation, loan pre-approval) matters more than headline promises. First‑time buyers should verify eligibility rules, avoid relying on temporary incentives for loan approval, and prioritise financial preparedness over waiting for budget changes.