how to save for a house deposit quickly

Wojciech

Wojciech

Diploma for Financial Advisers
Diploma in Accounting
Member of London Institute of Banking and Finance


Buying your first home is an exciting goal, but saving for a deposit can feel challenging. If you’re wondering “how to save for a house deposit quickly”—you’re in the right place. With practical steps and UK-specific tips, you can build your savings faster. Let’s break it down.


1. Set a Realistic Savings Target

Start by calculating how much you need. In the UK, most mortgages require a 5–20% deposit. For example, a £250,000 home might need £12,500–£50,000. Use tools like MoneyHelper’s Mortgage Calculator to estimate costs. Write down your goal and divide it into monthly savings targets. Clarity keeps you focused!


2. Track Every Penny

Before cutting costs, understand your spending. Apps like Monzo or Emma track your habits automatically. Look for leaks: daily coffees, unused gym memberships, or impulse buys. Saving just £5 a day adds up to £1,825 a year—money that could go toward your deposit.


3. Slash Unnecessary Costs

Trim expenses without sacrificing joy:

  • Meal prep instead of buying lunch (£5/day = £1,300/year).
  • Cancel subscriptions (check for duplicates like Netflix/Prime).
  • Switch energy providers using comparison sites like Uswitch.
  • Buy secondhand on Facebook Marketplace or Vinted.

4. Boost Your Income

Earn extra cash for your deposit:

  • Side hustles: Deliveroo, freelancing, or tutoring.
  • Sell unused items: Clear clutter on eBay or Depop.
  • Ask for a raise or take on overtime at work.
    Even £300 extra a month adds £3,600 a year to your savings.

5. Use a Lifetime ISA (LISA)

Lifetime ISA is a UK government scheme where you can save up to £4,000 a year, and the government adds a 25% bonus (up to £1,000/year). For example, saving £4,000 becomes £5,000! You must be 18–39 to open one and use it for your first home. Learn more at GOV.UK’s Lifetime ISA page.


6. Automate Your Savings

Set up a direct debit to move money into a high-interest savings account or LISA as soon as you’re paid. Banks like Chase or Marcus offer easy-access savings with competitive rates. Treat savings like a bill—pay yourself first!


7. Save Windfalls

Tax refunds, bonuses, or birthday money can accelerate your deposit. Commit to saving 50–100% of unexpected cash. A £500 work bonus could shave months off your timeline.


8. Downsize or House Share

Reduce housing costs:

  • Move to a cheaper area temporarily.
  • Rent a smaller flat or share with housemates.
    Saving £200/month on rent adds £2,400 a year to your deposit fund.

9. Avoid Debt Like the Plague

High-interest debt (e.g., credit cards) drains your savings. Focus on paying off loans first. For example, clearing a £2,000 credit card debt at 20% APR saves £400/year in interest—money better spent on your deposit.


10. Use First-Time Buyer Schemes

The UK offers schemes to help you save faster:

  • Help to Buy: Equity Loan (closed in 2023, but existing applicants can still use it).
  • First Homes Scheme: Buy a home at 30–50% below market price if you’re a first-time buyer.
  • Shared Ownership: Purchase 25–75% of a home and pay rent on the rest.
    Explore options at GOV.UK’s Own Your Home site.

Stay Disciplined and Motivated

Saving quickly requires consistency:

  • Review your budget monthly and adjust.
  • Celebrate milestones (e.g., hitting £10,000).
  • Visualise your goal: Stick a photo of your dream home on the fridge.

Final Tips to Save for a House Deposit Quickly

To recap:

  • Open a Lifetime ISA for free government cash.
  • Cut costs creatively (every pound counts!).
  • Use UK schemes like Shared Ownership or First Homes.

For more help, visit MoneySavingExpert’s First-Time Buyer Guide or speak to a free financial advisor via MoneyHelper.

By following these steps, you’ll crack how to save for a house deposit quickly—even in today’s economy. Stay patient, stay focused, and soon you’ll be holding the keys to your new home!


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