Deposits
How much deposit do I need?
Last reviewed: 3 October 2026
The brief answer
Some lenders offer mortgages with a deposit of around 5% of the price, but more products are usually available with a larger deposit. The right amount depends on the price, lender criteria and your circumstances — and you also need money for buying costs.
In plain English
Your deposit is the part of the price you pay from your own money. The rest is usually borrowed with a mortgage. The deposit as a percentage of the price determines your loan-to-value (LTV): a 10% deposit means a 90% LTV mortgage.
Generally, a lower LTV gives access to a wider choice of mortgage products, and often lower interest rates, but this is not guaranteed and depends on the market and lender.
Remember the deposit is not your only cost. You also need money for solicitor fees, searches, a survey, possible mortgage or broker fees, moving costs and possibly property tax. Keep a safety buffer too.
Government schemes, such as the Lifetime ISA, may help eligible first-time buyers. Scheme rules change, so always check the current official guidance.
Why it matters
Your deposit affects which mortgages you can apply for and how much you pay each month.
What to do next
- 1Use the deposit calculator to compare 5%–25%.
- 2List your other buying costs with the cost estimator.
- 3Speak to a mortgage adviser about what is realistic for you.
Checklist
- I know my deposit amount
- I know the LTV it gives me
- I have money for other costs
- I can show where my deposit came from