Answers

Do I need a 10% deposit to buy my first home?

No. Many lenders accept a deposit of 5% of the purchase price, and a few routes may ask for less. A bigger deposit can open up more options and lower monthly payments, but 10% is not a rule.

Last verified 10 September 2026

Who this is for: Anyone in England buying their first home and working out how much to save.

Lenders look at the deposit as a share of the price. The larger the share, the less they lend against the property and the more mortgage options may be open to you.

Where the money comes from matters too. Savings, a gift from family with the required evidence, and a Lifetime ISA bonus are common sources of a deposit.

The deposit is only one part of the picture. Lenders also consider income, regular outgoings and existing credit, so it is useful to look at the whole position before setting a target.

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