How I did it: Lived well below our means but not like paupers.  Put any pay rises straight out of the bank account and into the mortgage so they are never there to be spent.  An excel graph is a good motivator - every month we made more than the planned overpayment felt like a little victory.

Lessons & tips: Pay off any loans or credit cards first, then save an emergency fund of 3-6 months wages.  Get the biggest deposit you can before buying a place.

Think about what you're (really) likely to achieve within your normal, but not extravagant, day to day expenses and find a good mortgage that suits you around that.  Beware of mortgages that have an early redemption penalty or a limit on overpayments if you are likely to be able to pay more than this.  It helps to be lucky with the interest rates if you have a tracker mortgage!
Be aware of the difference in interest rates between savings and mortgage and put your money where you will gain most. 

Resources: Find a financial forum and join a group who are overpaying, it'll keep you motivated - in the UK try moneysavingexpert.

Really do your research before you get a mortgage.

Budget and generally live below your means.

Aug 03, 12:43AM PDT | 0 comments | 6 cheers