You may think that you need to save up for ages to save up a deposit to buy a property in the UK but there is another way. There is no need to wait until you have saved 30-35% before you buy.

This is for direct ownership and makes it much easy for you to get on the property ladder.

Secure the purchase price now, but pay the deposit of 30% over a period of 15 to 30 months, before you arrange a mortgage to finance the balance.

No need to wait to get on the UK propert ladder and you can buy an investment property at today’s prices, not at an increased rate in a few years’ time.

• Article updated 16/02/2026

We work with a financially secure and ethical developer that has been offering this as an option for several years in the knowledge that this is a way to make the process more affordable for the average person.

How does it work?

Let’s say you agree to buy a property with a purchase price of £219,995, which was the price for a developmen since sold out but serves as a good example.

You need to pay 5% up front to secure and reserve your chosen apartment. This is £10,999.75.

Legal fees are payable, estimated at £995.

You then pay an amount of £1,883 per month for 30 months. (As at 24/10/23 that is AED 8,265.)

Towards the end of the 30-month period, you arrange a mortgage for the balance, and complete the purchase.  You are now the proud owner of a smart new apartment which you let out to receive an income and cover your mortgage repayments.

You make the mortgage payments and receive a rental income.

This is a pictorial example based on current rental income and rents are increasing so likely to be higher by the time you complete the purchase in Q1 2026.

Deposits are held in nominated accounts held by solicitors. All fully secure.

Why buy in the UK?

The UK is a very secure market, with a high degree of legal protection, and that plus the significant undersupply of quality rental properties, means it is popular with investors of all nationalities.

Property should form part of everyone’s long-term financial planning and is a useful way to have a steady income in retirement.

If you buy the right property, in the right place, it is always a good time. Property is long-term investment.

The reality is that that the UK, England especially, England has the lowest percentage of vacant homes per capita in the OECD (Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development). That includes most of the EU, Japan, USA and Australia.

With a UK population that is increasing by over 500,000 people each year, housebuilders cannot keep up, not least as the UK has strict planning laws and approvals are not being given at the rate needed.

Basic supply and demand economics shows that UK property makes sense if you get it right.

This recent article from the BBC, shows the high level of demand. There are now 25 people viewing each rental property putting landlords in a great position, and leading to rising yields.

BBC – Renters chasing each home leaps to 25

This article lists 10 reasons why UK property is as sensible investment:

UK property investment – 10 reasons why it makes sense

UK property isn’t flashy but is is low-risk and is a sensible part of any retirement plan.

What about house prices?

You may have seen some  UK press articles claiming that UK property house prices are falling but that is only part of the story. If you read beyond the headlines you will see that in many areas they are increasing and are forecast to increase further.

Take a look at this table (you can click on it to enlarge) using figures from JLL, the highly respected market forecaster and property expert. It really is not the doom and gloom that some are claiming!

Bad news sells so much of the media will focus on the negatives but we know that prices have increased in many desirable areas and the shortfall in quality property and high demand will lead to further increases in the future.

As with any market, property of othewise.,values can fall and rise, but theuy are never dramatic for UK propery so you can invest with confidence – if you take advice,

This is why buying the right property, in the right place, matters. And why expert advice and guidance makes a difference.

ALL property is NOT the same.

When you look at investing in property, you need to look at both potential capital gain and also the rental yields – over a period of years. Add in buying the right kind of properties, ones that appeal to good tenants, that will have minimal upkeep for years and you will have a good investment.

What & where to buy?

I have a range of excellent property options, that we have a thoroughly researched and all from financially secure developers with good track records.

You can see a wider range  HERE  including some properties that have already completed and where you receive an immediate income.

In this article, I want to feature the developments where you can pay your deposit over a period of many months, making it easier to get on the property ladder.

Lakeside residence – Nottingham

Phase 2 is about to launch and Phase 1 has sold out.

Nottingham is the East Midlands’ largest economy and hosts the headquarters of many well-known companies including Boots, Pedigree Petfoods, Siemens, Vision Express and Specsavers, Experian, Speedo and Games Workshop,. There is plenty of employment in the area making this a great location for investment.

Nottingham property prices are predicted to grow by 16% by 2028. You can secure the price now.

This smart development is located on the edge of the River Leen, a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life, with easy access for both business and leisure.

• Studio apartments from £149,995
• One bed apartments at £164,995 and £168,995
• One bed penthouses at £172,95
• 5% initial deposit only
• 25% payable over 21 months
• Completion due Q2 2027
• Includes integrated appliances
• High build specs
• Excellent connectivity – both road & rail
• Walking distance to railway station
• Parking spaces available at £10,000

• Residents Gym
• Shared Lounges
• Gardens & Private Courtyard
• Collaborative Workspace
• Meeting Rooms
• Games & Entertainment Room

Phase 1 was popular andd this phase will be too so don’t delay. Get in touch for more information, brochure and a full financial schedule.

Details of other developments to follow…

Other points

We have done the economic research so you know you are buying in the right place. New property. at this high quality, means minimal maintenance for many years and that’s important, especially if you are living overseas.

• Mortgages are available for people who are not UK resident
• I will establish that you are eligible for a mortgage before you commit
• Stamp Duty is payable on completion. Amount will be confirmed in each case
• Additional legal fees may be payable
• Tax advice available
• Full financial advice provided
• Negligible risk
• Amenable & ethical developer in case of financial difficulties

Property investment is part of full financial planning and in all cases we have a chat to establish that this is right for you and any other issues that you need to consider.

To arrange a discussion about investing in property, or on any aspect of your personal financial planning, please email me at keren@holbornassets.com for a friendly, no-obligation chat, or use this contact form.

I run my own set-up under the Holborn Assets umbrella.

This is part of the holistic personal financial planning service and that I provide to expats, and the general consumer, financial and legal information that I provide in The National newspaper, across other UAE media, and on the Facebook group British Expats Dubai.

Please take a look at the other useful articles on this website.