Saving for Your Home

How Much Deposit Do You Need?

The more you can save for your deposit, the less you'll need to borrow — and the better the mortgage rates you'll be offered. Here's a clear breakdown of what different deposit sizes mean for you:

Deposit Loan-to-Value
(LTV)
What It Means Rates Available
5% 95% LTV Minimum accepted by most lenders Limited
10% 90% LTV Wider pool of lenders available Competitive
15% 85% LTV Strong position; more lender choice Competitive
20%+ 80% LTV or below Access to some of the best rates on the market Best Rates
£5,000 min. 99% LTV New scheme — very limited lender availability Scheme Only
How Much Can You Borrow?

Your Borrowing Capacity

Many buyers turn to online calculators to get an initial idea of affordability — but these tools are often inaccurate, particularly for first-time buyers whose situations can be more nuanced (variable income, multiple income sources, unusual employment types, etc.).Our advisers will assess your actual borrowing capacity based on your specific income, outgoings, credit profile, and the criteria of individual lenders. This gives you a real, reliable figure — not a ballpark estimate.

Important: The monthly repayment figure you'll pay depends on three things: how much you borrow, the interest rate offered, and the length of your mortgage term. With rates higher now than in recent years, it's essential to get an accurate repayment figure before you start viewing properties — so you can set a realistic budget.

How Does Mortgage Term Affect Monthly Payments?

The average mortgage term is 25 years, but many lenders now extend this to 35 or even 40 years, provided you'll still be below retirement age at the end of the term. A longer term means lower monthly payments — but you'll pay more in total interest over time. Your adviser will help you find the right balance.

Full Budget Planning

What Other Costs Should You Budget For?

A mortgage is not the only expense when buying your first home. Before you begin viewing properties, make sure you've planned for these one-off upfront costs:

Deposit

The upfront percentage of the purchase price you pay directly. Minimum 5%.

Mortgage Arrangement Fee

Charged by some lenders. Can often be added to your mortgage balance rather than paid upfront.

Valuation / Survey Fee

The lender will value the property. A more detailed structural survey (HomeBuyer Report) is recommended.

Legal / Conveyancing Fees

Your solicitor or licensed conveyancer handles the legal side. Costs vary by property type and complexity.

Stamp Duty

First-time buyers may benefit from SDLT relief on properties up to certain thresholds. Use our calculator to check.

Removal Costs

Factor in the cost of moving your belongings into your new home.

Ongoing Costs Once You Move In

Beyond the mortgage payment itself, homeownership comes with regular ongoing costs you should plan for from day one:

Council Tax — banded by property value and local authority

Utility bills — gas, electricity, water, broadband

Buildings insurance — required by your mortgage lender

Contents insurance — strongly recommended to protect your belongings

Repairs and maintenance — budget for unexpected issues

Furnishings and decorating — especially if moving into an unfurnished home

Our advisers always walk through a full budget planner with you before any application is submitted — making sure you're comfortable with both the mortgage payment and the wider financial picture of homeownership.

How much deposit do I need as a first time buyer?
How much can I borrow as a first time buyer?
What other costs do I need to budget for when buying my first home?
Does a longer mortgage term reduce my monthly payments?
Can I use a gifted deposit as a first time buyer?