First time property buyer advice

What is some advice that you wish you knew before making your first property purchase?

Would you recommend going through a bond originator? If so, which would you recommend?

Would you recommend a large deposit? No deposit at all? I’m considering taking out a smaller loan and paying the “deposit” directly to the seller. I’ve been advised that there is no point in paying money into the bond as that would simply go into servicing the interest. Is this true?