Story perspectives

UK First-Time Buyers Turn to Odd Side-Hustles for Deposits

4/23/2026

Summary

Story summary

Some prospective UK homeowners are selling used socks or feet pictures online to fund house deposits.
Santander UK research finds 49 % of would-be first-time buyers take side-hustles, earning £442 monthly for about seven extra hours.
Nearly two-thirds of side-hustlers save the extra income toward deposits, and 12 % earn over £1,000 monthly.
Common side-hustles include gardening, personalised items, baking, leaflet distribution, candle making, selling feet pictures and used socks.

History

Historical Context

The gig economy began to rise in 2009 after the global financial crisis, which increased unemployment and underemployment. By 2021, 16% of U.S. adults engaged in gig work, with companies like Uber and Airbnb leading the way. This shift reflects a broader trend of individuals adapting to economic pressures, as seen in the UK, where unconventional side-hustles have emerged to meet financial needs.

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Story summary

Some prospective UK homeowners are selling used socks or feet pictures online to fund house deposits.
Santander UK research finds 49 % of would-be first-time buyers take side-hustles, earning £442 monthly for about seven extra hours.
Nearly two-thirds of side-hustlers save the extra income toward deposits, and 12 % earn over £1,000 monthly.
Common side-hustles include gardening, personalised items, baking, leaflet distribution, candle making, selling feet pictures and used socks.

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