Saving for a deposit is a big step on your journey to buying a home. If you’re a first-time buyer in the UK, knowing how to
save effectively is key in today’s housing market. With average deposits reaching around £61,000, a smart saving plan is
crucial. Here are some easy tips to help you save efficiently and get closer to owning your first home.
UNDERSTANDING HOW MUCH YOU NEED TO SAVE
Before you start saving, it’s good to know how much you’ll need. In the UK, first-time buyers usually need a deposit of
at least 5% of the property’s value. However, aiming for 10% or more can get you better mortgage rates. As of 2023, the
average deposit size is about £61,000, which is around 16% of the average property price of £240,000 [1]. This can vary by
region, especially in places like London where deposits can be higher. To set a realistic savings target, check property prices
in your preferred area, and remember to include extra costs like Stamp Duty and legal fees.
SET CLEAR GOALS AND BUDGET WISELY
Start by setting a clear savings goal. Tools like the Money Advice Service’s Budget Planner can help you plan your
finances. Calculate your monthly income and necessary expenses. Many people use the 50/30/20 rule: 50% for
essentials, 30% for non-essentials, and 20% for savings. Open a separate savings account just for your deposit. Automate your
monthly savings to stay consistent and review your budget regularly to make sure you’re on track.
MAKE USE OF GOVERNMENT SCHEMES
Government schemes can boost your deposit savings:
- Help to Buy ISA: Closed to new accounts but existing ones can save up to £12,000 with a 25% government bonus of
up to £3,000. Lifetime ISA (LISA): For those aged 18-39. Save up to £4,000 per year and get a 25% bonus (up to £1,000 annually). - First Homes Scheme: Offers first-time buyers and key workers a 30-50% discount on new build homes. This discount stays with the property when you resell.
These incentives can greatly reduce the amount you need to save on your own.
CHOOSE HIGH-INTEREST SAVINGS ACCOUNTS
Make the most of your savings with high-interest accounts. For example, some accounts offer interest up to 6.5% for
regular monthly deposits. Check out comparison sites like MoneySuperMarket or Which? to find the best deals.
Compare rates and choose an account that balances good interest returns with easy access to your money.
CUT BACK ON NON-ESSENTIALS
Look for ways to trim your spending and save more:
- Cook at Home: Eating out less can save a lot.
- Review Subscriptions: Cancel unnecessary subscriptions and streaming services.
Small savings can add up over time, making a big difference.
AVOID COMMON PITFALLS
Watch out for mistakes that can hurt your savings plan:
Don’t Dip into Savings: Keep your deposit savings in a separate
account to avoid spending them on other things.
Maintain Good Credit: Use credit wisely to keep your score healthy. Keep balances low and pay bills on time.
Good habits with money help both with saving and getting a mortgage.
KEEP TRACK OF YOUR PROGRESS
- Regularly check how your savings are doing:
- Use Apps: Tools like Yolt, Money Dashboard, and Emma help track your expenses and savings.
- Monthly Check-Ins: Review your savings plan every month and adjust if needed.
Staying consistent and flexible helps you reach your savings goal faster.
Saving for a deposit is all about planning and discipline. By setting clear goals, using government schemes, choosing the
right savings accounts, and managing your money wisely, you can make real progress towards buying your first home. Start
applying these tips today, and if you need personalised advice, our team is here to support you every step of the way.
SOURCE DATA
[1] Nationwide House Price Index 2024 – https://www.nationwide.co.uk/house-price-index
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