First-time buyers · 4 min read
How to save a house deposit in 24 months (without giving up coffee) in Plymouth: the latest take
You don't need to eat beans. You need three system changes: automate saving, cut the two biggest categories, and add one variable income stream.
You don't need to eat beans. You need three system changes: automate saving, cut the two biggest categories, and add one variable income stream.
Automate on payday
Set a standing order to a separate LISA the day you get paid. Money never seen isn't money missed.
The two costs that actually matter
Housing and transport are 55% of the average UK budget. Moving to a cheaper flat or cycling to work saves 10× what avoiding takeaway coffee ever will.
Add a variable income
£300/month from a side project compounds into £8k+ across 24 months once you add the LISA bonus and interest.
Where to put the money
LISA first (25% bonus), then a Regular Saver at 5–7% via a linked current account, then a Cash ISA. Avoid stocks for a 2-year horizon.
Frequently asked questions
- How much deposit do I need?
- 5% is enough for most 95% LTV products; 10% opens up meaningfully better rates.
- Can I use my Help to Buy ISA too?
- Yes, but not for the same purchase as a LISA bonus. You can convert one to the other.
