'I’m a property expert - here’s 5 easy ways to save for a house deposit'

First-time buyers are facing a daunting challenge in today’s property market. With near-record house prices and rising living costs, getting on the property ladder has never seemed more difficult. Add to that the pressure of saving tens of thousands for a deposit while contending with skyrocketing rents and stagnant wages, and it’s easy to see why many feel overwhelmed.

But there’s hope. Side hustles - small business ventures or freelance gigs that can be pursued alongside regular employment - are becoming a lifeline for those looking to build savings more quickly and achieve their dream of homeownership.

So, how do you choose the right side gig for you? And which ventures require minimal experience and investment?

To help guide your journey, property investment expert Haaris Ahmed, Founder and Managing Director of UOWN, shares his top recommendations for side hustles that can pave your way to a house deposit.

Build an eCommerce empire from your spare room

If your wardrobe is full of clothes with tags still on, or your cupboards are cluttered with unused electronics, you might be sitting on a hidden goldmine. Thanks to platforms like Etsy, Depop, and Vinted - alongside the ever-popular eBay - selling online has never been more accessible. Whether you're selling handcrafted goods, pre-loved fashion, or electronics, there's an opportunity to turn your unwanted items into cash. With minimal upfront costs and the flexibility to work from home, you could even build a thriving e-commerce side hustle, all from the comfort of your spare room.

“What many people don’t realise is that you don’t need to sell designer clothes or expensive items to build a profitable e-commerce side hustle. In fact, many successful sellers focus on high-volume, low-cost items. Whether it’s affordable fashion or everyday goods, the key often lies in quantity over price. Even though individual items might sell for less, the sales quickly add up. You can also maximise profits by selling items in bundles, making it even easier to turn a steady stream of sales into a significant source of income.”

Property crowdfunding investment

Many people believe that significant wealth or experience is necessary to enter the property investment market, but Haaris insists that’s a misconception. “Contrary to popular belief, property investment isn’t just for the wealthy elite,” he says. “The rise of property crowdfunding investment schemes has opened doors for people from all walks of life.”

Crowdfunding allows investors to buy stakes in property investment opportunities without the hassles typically associated with traditional buy-to-let investments. With a starting point as low as £1, it removes many of the usual barriers to entry, and the potential return on investment can reach around 12% per annum.

Haaris, who turned his passion for property into the successful investment platform UOWN, emphasises that crowdfunding offers millennials a foothold in a market often seen as inaccessible. “Through the crowdfunding model, money can grow at a much higher rate than in a traditional savings account. Some projects pay out interest every month, meaning investors often see returns within weeks,” he explains. “Other projects pay out the full return at the end of the development, typically within 1-3 years. It's a way to get a foot on the property ladder without the long wait to save for a deposit.'"

Rental property management

If you’re looking for a flexible side hustle without needing to own property, consider a career in rental property management. With platforms like Airbnb booming, the demand for skilled property managers is skyrocketing, creating many opportunities for those new to the field.

This role allows you to manage bookings, oversee check-ins, and interact with guests - all while maintaining a flexible schedule. “The rise of holiday rentals has opened a new path to income, giving first-time buyers a unique opportunity to earn on the side,” says Haaris. “Becoming a property manager is one of the most straightforward ways to profit without investing directly in property.”

In the UK, rental property managers typically earn £25,000 to £70,000+ annually, with earnings varying by location, experience, and property type. Managing properties can also be a lucrative way to generate supplementary income. Freelancers generally charge 8% to 15% of monthly rent, while those managing short-term rentals often earn more, with fees ranging from 15% to 30%.

Delivery driver

With the rise of the gig economy, delivery driving has become one of the most accessible and flexible ways to earn extra income in the UK. For those with a car or even just a bike, getting started is straightforward, requiring only a vehicle and a valid driving licence - unless you opt for pedal power - making it an ideal fit for anyone who enjoys being on the move and working outdoors.

“If you’ve got a car or bike, taking on delivery work can be a fantastic way to boost your income,” says Haaris. “The demand has never been higher, as people can now have anything delivered straight to their door - whether it’s a takeaway, groceries, or even medicine. For those with a few free hours on quiet evenings or weekends, delivery side hustles offer a quick, flexible way to earn while filling a vital role in the community.”

Become a property scout

Love scrolling through property sites like Rightmove for your dream home? What if that mindless scrolling could actually make you money? Many people underestimate the earning potential of property research skills gained from casual browsing, which can actually lead to profitable side gigs, like becoming a property scout. In this role - often referred to as a bird dog - you help investors identify real estate opportunities for selling, renting, or investing.

“Many real estate investors have demanding jobs or seek opportunities in different locations, making it difficult for them to attend all viewings,” Haaris explains. “As a property scout, you can earn a finder's fee of about 1% to 5% of the property’s purchase price, depending on your agreement with the investor.”

You don’t need formal experience to get started, but having a basic understanding of real estate terms and local market trends will make you more effective. Consider taking online courses or reading real estate books to build your knowledge base.

With homeownership becoming increasingly expensive, creative thinking is crucial for first-time buyers. For more information on innovative investment options, or insights into property crowdfunding and the housing market, visit: https://www.uown.co/invest