Not necessarily. A 5% deposit mortgage (a loan secured on your home) may be possible, and specialist routes can sometimes require less. But the deposit is only one piece.
A simple example
A £200,000 home with a 5% deposit needs a £190,000 mortgage. If the mortgage available is £175,000, the deposit must cover the £25,000 difference—even though 5% is only £10,000.
The planner uses the larger of your chosen percentage deposit and the difference between price and assumed borrowing. It then adds buying tax, costs and a separate buffer.
A larger deposit can reduce the loan and may improve the rates available. A smaller deposit can reduce saving time but increase monthly costs. Compare both before deciding.
Compare my starting point →Sources and conditions
Checked 25 October 2026. Rules and product availability can change; check the original information before acting.
MoneyHelper · First-time buyer guide ↗MoneyHelper · Mortgage affordability ↗GOV.UK · How to buy a home ↗MoneyHelper · Applying for a mortgage ↗Find the gap that matters to you.
Your income and monthly budget may limit borrowing before the deposit percentage does. Bring them together in a plan.
Find my starting point →