Bec and Sam Bartley, comedy content creators aged 36 and 32, saved £37,500 over 18 months by moving from their rented one-bedroom flat in Archway, North London, to Bec's parents' home in Herne Bay, Kent. They used the savings as a deposit for a £225,000 two-bedroom terraced house in Folkestone, Kent, securing a mortgage of approximately £185,000.
Struggling to save in London
The couple paid £1,100 monthly rent on their Archway flat but could not save due to fluctuating wages from their comedy venture @bamcomedyuk. Bec said: "We always wanted to own a property but in London we felt trapped in the renting game. We tried to save but all our money went on rent and living costs." The cramped flat doubled as a lounge, workspace, studio and filming location during the Covid pandemic.
Moving in with parents
After difficult conversations, the couple moved into Bec's parents' spare bedroom in 2023. They established ground rules: no rent, but they contributed to utility bills, bought their own food, and took turns cooking. Bec noted: "We had an honest conversation before we moved in and that was really important. If they'd wanted rent we would have paid it."
Challenges and sacrifices
Living with parents meant queues for the shower, less privacy, and limited socialising. Bec's mum worked as a therapist from home, requiring quiet during sessions. "You miss having time together as a couple," Bec said. "Even having a disagreement, you don't necessarily want an audience." The couple also felt a sense of failure initially, but data from the Institute for Fiscal Studies shows the share of 25- to 34-year-olds living with parents has risen by a third in 20 years. Four in 10 renters would consider moving back home to save for a deposit.
Saving success
With lower living costs, the couple saved roughly £2,000 monthly, occasionally more. After 18 months, they had £37,500 for a deposit. Sam said: "We sacrificed our north London life, and for the sake of 18 months we managed to get ourselves on the property ladder." Their new home includes a courtyard garden and a converted loft podcast studio.
Advice for others
The couple urge others to consider moving back with relatives if possible. Sam added: "If you have supportive parents and the opportunity is there, don't worry about the stigma. You'll be surprised how much you can save." Bec concluded: "It may not feel worth it at the start, but once you get your own property you'll feel the reward."
