A young Darwin couple has secured their dream block at Zuccoli Village, a joint venture between Urbex and the Northern Territory Government’s Land Development Corporation, proving that buying a first home can be just as affordable as renting.
The couple, Shaquila Ah-Wong and Philip Bong, both in their 20s, had been renting and saving while weighing up whether to buy established or build new.
After more than a year of searching, the couple purchased a block just ten minutes’ walk from family, a decision made even more important after Shaquila was diagnosed with a chronic illness two years ago.
“We wanted to be near my sister, not only for support with my health, but also to build our future around family,” Shaquila said.
After months of disappointment and near-misses, the couple walked into the Zuccoli sales office on what they call their “lucky day.”
A block had just been released after another buyer pulled out, only a ten-minute walk from her sister’s home and the couple purchased their first home on the spot.
“We knew straight away it was the one, close to family, in the community we wanted, and exactly the right size,” Shaquila said.
Urbex sales consultant Nicole Turner was praised for guiding the couple through every step of the buying process.
“She went above and beyond, from explaining pre-approvals, to connecting us with builders, and guiding us along the way,” Shaquila said.
Construction is now well underway, with the external walls completed just days after the slab was poured.
The couple hopes to move into their new 541m² home at Zuccoli Village as early as Christmas.
Like many people in their 20s, the couple weighed up whether to keep travelling or save for a home.
“We love traveling, but to buy we had to prioritise saving for our first home,” Shaquila said.
“Our repayments are nearly on par with renting in Darwin but instead of paying off someone else’s mortgage, we’re building equity in our own home.”
The couple also benefited from the Northern Territory’s $50,000 First Home Owner Grant, which they put directly onto their mortgage, believing the grant gave them the head start they needed.
Their advice for other first home buyers is simple, ask questions and do not be afraid to seek guidance.
“It’s scary at first, but once you understand the process it’s achievable, even in your 20s.”
Interested buyers are encouraged to register their interest or visit: zuccolivillage.com.au
Published: Realestate.com 11/10/2025 ‘Revealed: Territory’s densest suburbs’ (article link) & News.com.au 11/10/2025 ‘Revealed: Territory’s densest suburbs‘ (article link).
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