How much do you need to buy a house?
Add up everything you’ll need to buy a home, not just the deposit.
Total cash needed
Answer the questions to see your total.
For example, £30,000 saved for a £300,000 home looks like a 10% deposit. But if £5,000 goes on buying and moving costs, £25,000 is left for the deposit.
Your total cash needed
This is an estimate, not a quote. Get quotes for each cost before you make decisions.
| Part | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total so far |
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Questions about the cash you need
Quick answers to what buyers ask most.
Where our figures come from
- Tax rates: HMRC and the Welsh Revenue Authority, checked 29 October 2026.
- Legal work, surveys, lender fees, moving and reserve: MoneyHelper, checked 4 November 2026.
- When each payment is due: MoneyHelper’s money timeline, checked 28 October 2026.
What could I lose if the purchase falls through?
You can pull out at any time before exchange of contracts. But you may lose money you’ve already paid, such as for the survey or legal work. Before you choose a conveyancer, surveyor or adviser, ask what you’d pay if the purchase falls through.
Why keep money in reserve?
Bills and repairs can come up soon after you move, and your income could change. Many people aim to keep enough for about three months of costs, including the mortgage.
Are the typical costs right for me?
They’re a starting point. Your costs may be higher or lower. Get quotes, check what’s included, such as VAT, searches and extras, and compare the service as well as the price.
What doesn’t this calculator cover?
Shared ownership, buying through a company, buying more than one home at once, and homes in Scotland. It also leaves out costs that depend on the home, such as repairs. Your conveyancer can confirm the tax.