Keep an emergency buffer through the build

An off-plan purchase often spans several years, and several years of ordinary life can include a job change, a new baby, a medical bill or a move abroad. The instalments, however, stay on their schedule. If the only savings you have are the ones set aside for the next payment, one unexpected expense can put the whole plan under pressure. Keep two separate pots: the instalment fund, used only for payments to the developer, and an emergency reserve beside it. As an example, a reserve that would cover a few instalments gives you time to adjust if income pauses. Review both pots at each payment date, and top up the reserve before making extra purchases for the new home. Prepared by Masterpiece Property. AI-generated illustration, not a photograph of an actual property or project.