Make A Confident Step Into Your First Home

Make a confident step into your first home

There is a great sense of achievement when you buy your first home. You finally find one that fits your budget and all you have to do is make the first deposit or down payment. This is no small amount and needs significant planning, in order to make one of your life’s ambitions a reality for you and your children.

Assess your financial position
Evaluate your income versus your living expenses and any debt you have, then work out how much of your monthly income can be diverted towards mortgage repayments. You may speak to the mortgage advisor at the bank offering the lowest rate for you to know how much you can borrow. Once you know how much you can borrow, you will know the value of the property you can afford and, in turn, how much deposit/down payment you need. In the UAE, expats need to make a cash down payment of at least 20% of the property value.

Factor in all costs
Remember, you are not just saving for the deposit/down payment, but also any fees such as valuation, surveyor, brokerage charges as well as property transfer and mortgage application fees. Other overlooked costs include the cost of moving as well as connection fees for utilities. Add these to your target figure and then you’ll know how much you need to save.

Use your savings account strategically
It’s good to maintain a separate savings account and commit not to withdraw from it unless it’s for the first deposit. Setting up a standing order from your bank account into your down payment fund is a key way to make sure the money is transferred without you having to think about it. The more you save in this account the better, as it reduces the monthly payments you make on your mortgage. Be aware that not all savings accounts are the same. Besides interest rates, there can be a huge variety in terms of how you access your money.

Investments
While keeping money in your savings account is less risky, you can obtain better appreciation for it when you invest in medium-risk mutual funds. Markets are volatile and it’s worth speaking to a professional financial advisor to discuss your risk levels and find an opportunity that is right for you.

Maintain a budget
Living within a budget is an evergreen tool when it comes to savings and investments. The golden rule of a budget is that your income should always be greater than expenses. Since you are saving up for a home, your expenses must factor in the amount you are committed to saving every month. Keep a watchful eye on your utility bills, as well as entertainment and dining out. These small sacrifices will pay off in the long run.

Finally, if your dream home is out of your reach, save for a less expensive property. You can then build up equity as the market rises and later sell it to buy a bigger home. Your dreams don’t have to be put on hold and Standard Chartered is here to help you achieve them. For guidance on saving for your first home, reach out to one of our Wealth Specialists.

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