How to save a deposit for your first home

Saving for a deposit can feel overwhelming, but the key is simple: start saving now. Here are some practical tips to help you kickstart your journey toward homeownership.

Start with a Realistic Plan

Setting a manageable monthly savings goal gets the ball rolling. Don’t let the total deposit amount intimidate you—take it step by step. Even if you’re unsure exactly how much you’ll need, beginning the habit of saving is the most important step.

Track Your Spending

Use free online budget templates to assess your income and expenses. Include both fixed costs (like rent and bills) and those sneaky small purchases that add up fast. Review your last few months of spending to create a realistic picture and avoid being overly optimistic.

Don’t Overstretch Yourself

Be honest about what you can save each month. Set a minimum amount you’re confident you can commit to. If you have a particularly good month, great—add a little extra. Trying to save too much too soon can lead to frustration and burnout.

Choose the Right Savings Account

Do your homework before opening an account. Since this is a long-term goal, an account with a higher interest rate—even if it limits access to your money—might be best. Periodically review your options to make sure your money is working as hard as you are.

Automate Your Savings

Set up a standing order or direct debit to move money into your savings automatically. This removes the temptation to spend it elsewhere and turns saving into a habit.

Lean on Your Support Network

Let your friends and family know about your goal. They’ll likely be supportive and may even suggest budget-friendly alternatives, like midweek meetups or cosy dinners at home instead of pricey nights out.

Stay Motivated

Saving is often easiest in the beginning when motivation is high. As time goes on, look for ways to keep your momentum going—set mini-milestones, reward yourself occasionally, and remember: it’s okay to take a break as long as you stick to your baseline goal.

Start where you are, stay consistent, and keep your goal in sight. Your future self will thank you! Contact your local Guild Member when you are ready to start your journey to buying.

Financial Services

Contact a specialist from Aston & Co Financial Services for help with finding the right mortgage.

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From the beginning, our experience with Michael and Rhys has been brilliant. Whenever we had a question to ask or needed some additional information, they were both just a phone call away and were always happy to provide us with an answer. As first time buyers, they made us feel ...

Sue Smith

We can’t fault Aston and co in Syston, for their handling of the sale of our property. We were kept up to date weekly and nothing was too much trouble. Both Micheal and Rhys were approachable and very professional. I would definitely recommend using them for an efficient and hassle ...

Andy

Having had issues with other agents, we came to Astons who gave us an honest appraisal of our house – not overpricing it like others to gain business. Michael and Rhys are a great partnership and Rhys being local was able to provide viewers with information that other agents hadn’t. ...

Andy Freer

Recently sold our house with Aston & Co. We honestly could not have asked for more. From the moment Michael came to value the house, to the day to day communication from Rhys we have not had to chase them once. Michael and Rhys are a great partnership and a ...

V Pears

We chose Aston & Co in Syston to handle the sale of our property. We were kept up to date regularly and Michael and Rhys dealt with all matters efficiently and quickly.We would definitely recommend using them for an efficient and hassle-free move.

Gareth Mueller

We bought a house from a vendor who used Astons & Co as their agent. Rhys was helpful and professional from start to finish and regularly kept us in the loop with how things were progressing. Communication was efficient and swift all the way through.

Julie Pearson

From the first visit to value our property to the final phone call informing us of completion Rhys and Michael at the Syston office have been brilliant, down to earth, realistic with valuation very easy to get in touch with.Making everything less stressful.Regular updates were very reassuring . I would ...

Charlotte Hings

The team at Astons are great. They’re really down to earth, take time to listen and help resolve anything they can for you.Their communication is excellent as they always keep you in the loop with what is happening with your sale. They keep both seller and purchaser happy.Fees are reasonable ...

Julie Perkins

We have recently used Aston & Co to sell our property. At all times we received regular reports from them on interest and following viewings . When our property sold Astons managed the chain keeping all parties fully informed and I believe that without their input our sale would have ...

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Michael and Rhys handled both our sale and purchases. They had good local knowledge, their valuation turned out to be on point. Our sale viewings were nearly all on the same day and we accepted an offer very quickly. We were kept up to date regularly with that and our ...

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