Scottish Mortgage Podcast

Deposit Options When Buying a House: A Guide


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Buying a house can be a daunting task, especially when it comes to figuring out how to come up with a deposit. A deposit is an amount of money that will be used in addition to the mortgage to purchase a property. Most lenders require a deposit, which is typically set as a percentage of the property value or purchase price, whichever is lower. In this article, we will explore the different options available when looking for a deposit for your new home.

  1. Savings from Your Salary

The most common type of deposit is savings from your salary. This is the preferred route for lenders as it shows that you have a track record of managing your finances and have a mindset of not spending more than you earn. However, for some individuals, it can be difficult to save for a deposit, especially if the cost of rent is higher than the mortgage.

  1. Gift from Family

In situations where it's difficult to save for a deposit, family members can step in and gift the deposit to you. Different lenders have their own criteria for what they will consider as a gift, but gifts from parents, siblings, grandparents, etc. are generally accepted.

  1. Gift from Friends or Extended Family

Gifts from friends or extended family can also be used towards a deposit, although there are fewer lenders that will accept this option.

  1. Landlord-Gifted Deposit

If you're renting, your landlord may be able to reduce the purchase price of the property, allowing you to use the difference as a deposit. Alternatively, they could gift you the difference as a deposit.

  1. Inheritance

If you have received part of an estate from a deceased relative or parent, you can use this inheritance as a deposit for your mortgage. You will need to provide confirmation from a solicitor to prove where the funds are coming from.

  1. Equity in an Existing Property

If you are a homeowner with built-up equity, you can release the equity in your existing property to use as a deposit for your new home. This option allows you to retain your current property and use it as a rental to gain income, while also having a main residence.

  1. Personal Loans

Another option to consider is taking out a personal loan to use as a deposit. This is only possible if the loan is factored into the affordability and the lender is satisfied that it will not cause financial strain. Not all lenders offer this option, so it's important to seek advice in these scenarios.

In conclusion, there are several options available when looking for a deposit for your new home. It's important to understand the criteria of different lenders and choose the best option for your individual circumstances. Always seek advice from a professional if you're unsure of the best route to take.

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Scottish Mortgage PodcastBy Tony Flynn