Smart ways to start (or grow) your home fund in 2026
Saving for a home deposit doesn’t have to feel impossible. With clear goals, smart habits and consistency, 2026 could be the year first-time buyers make real progress.
Saving up for a deposit on a home can feel like one of the biggest money mountains to climb, especially as the cost of living keeps creeping up. But the good news is, with a solid plan and a few smart, practical moves (and maybe a very determined piggy bank), 2026 could be the year more first-time buyers finally start making real progress towards owning their own place.
According to Adrian Goslett, CEO and regional director of REMAX Southern Africa, building a home fund doesn’t have to be overwhelming; you just need to start where you are, remain consistent, and utilise tools that help make saving a bit easier.
“Start by setting a clear target and have a timeline in mind. Many people struggle to save because they don’t know what the end goal is. A practical first step is to estimate how much you’ll need for a deposit and upfront purchase costs, then break that number down into manageable monthly goals. Even the smallest contribution can add meaningful value over time if you remain consistent,” he explains.
One of the simplest tactics to help grow your home fund is by setting up an automatic transfer system into a separate savings account. Ensure that this payment goes off after pay day to help remove the temptation to spend the money elsewhere.
Choosing the right savings options also matters. A standard savings account may offer convenience, but it’s worth exploring higher-interest options such as fixed deposits where funds can grow faster. For those saving over a longer period, it may be beneficial to speak to a financial adviser about suitable investment options.
For those who already have a home fund in place, 2026 is a good time to reassess and grow it more strategically. Increasing monthly contributions by even a small percentage, redirecting annual bonuses, or making use of interest-rate changes can help the fund grow faster. Regularly checking progress against goals can keep you motivated and ensure that your plan remains realistic.
“Saving is only one part of the picture. Preparing for homeownership also means understanding the purchase process, knowing your affordability range, and putting yourself in a better financial position before you start viewing properties,” concludes Goslett.
Whether you are starting from scratch or looking to grow what you already have, small smart decisions made early in 2026 could bring you closer to owning a home than you think.
Issued by Kesia Abrahams
