21 April 2026
One of the biggest myths we hear from people in and around Brackley is this: “I’d love to buy, but I just don’t have a big enough deposit.”
It’s completely understandable. For years, buying a home has been associated with needing tens of thousands saved up before you can even begin. But the reality in today’s market is often very different.
In fact, many first-time buyers are now purchasing with deposits far smaller than they expected. There are mortgage options available that allow you to buy with as little as 5% of the property value. On a £200,000 home, that could mean a deposit of £10,000—not insignificant, of course, but far more achievable than the figures many people have in mind.
What’s more, there are a range of schemes, family support options, and lender criteria that can help bridge the gap if your savings aren’t quite there yet. The key is knowing what’s available—and that’s where many people get stuck.
We often speak to people who have spent months (or even years) assuming they’re not in a position to buy, when in reality, a quick conversation could have given them clarity much sooner.
Of course, the deposit is just one piece of the puzzle. Lenders will also look at your income, outgoings, credit history, and overall affordability. But again, this is where expert mortgage guidance can make all the difference. What one lender says “no” to, another may be perfectly comfortable with.
The biggest mistake we see? Waiting until you feel 100% ready before speaking to someone. The truth is, the earlier you get advice, the clearer your path becomes. Even if you’re six or twelve months away, understanding your options now can help you plan with confidence.
So, if you’ve been putting off exploring your options because you think you need a huge deposit, it might be time to think again.
The first step towards a place of your own? Book a FREE discovery call/appointment with us today. A simple, informal conversation could help you understand what’s possible – and how close you might already be.