Get clear on your numbers
Use our lending calculators
Start by understanding your price range and what you can comfortably afford in repayments by using our calculators. Once you have a guide, use our calculators to estimate your deposit and plan your next steps.
Speak to one of our lenders
Our lenders can help you understand how much you may need to save, including your deposit and additional costs such as stamp duty and, if applicable, Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI).
They can also guide you through the different loan options available and help you understand which type of home loan may best suit your needs and circumstances.
Calculate your stamp duty
As a general guide, many buyers aim for a deposit of at least 5% plus costs. However, the minimum deposit required depends on the type of loan, the property, and how the loan is structured.
If your parents are willing to help by providing some equity in their home as additional security, options such as our Family Pledge may allow you to purchase with a smaller deposit by using equity in a family member's property as additional security, which may reduce or remove the need for LMI, subject to eligibility and approval.
Get the right account
Once you have a target in mind, the next step is building your savings as efficiently as possible. While setting money aside where you can helps, choosing the right savings account can make a real difference.
Our Bonus Saver∞ rewards good saving habits with a higher interest rate when you make regular deposits and no withdrawals in a given month. If you’re under 25, our Life Saver~ is a great alternative.
Plan your savings journey
Even with the right account, saving for a deposit can sometimes feel slow. That’s normal, but having a clear plan can help you stay motivated.
Our savings goal calculator gives you a clearer picture of your journey. By entering a few details, you can see how long it may take to reach your goal and track your progress along the way.
Set a budget and stick to it
How quickly you reach your savings goal will largely depend on how you manage your day-to-day money.
A clear budget can help you stay on track and make every dollar count.
Your questions answered
How much of a deposit do you need for a house?
It’s a common belief that you need a 20% deposit to buy a home. While having 20% saved can help you reduce your costs, it’s not always a requirement to secure a home loan.
If you have less than a 20% deposit, there are still ways to get into the market sooner. One option is paying Lenders Mortgage Insurance (LMI), which may allow you to borrow with a smaller deposit. You can find out more about LMI here.
Another is using a guarantor, such as a family member, to provide additional security for your loan. This could potentially allow you to borrow up to 100% of the purchase price in some cases. You can find out more about guarantor loans here.
How does a house deposit work?
A house deposit is the portion of the purchase price you contribute upfront when buying a property. While 20% has traditionally been the benchmark, rising property prices mean this isn’t always realistic for many buyers today.
From a lender’s perspective, your deposit also shows your ability to save and manage money, helping demonstrate that you’re a reliable borrower.