Saving for a down payment is a straightforward arithmetic exercise once you pick a target and a monthly savings rate. If the target is $12,000 and you can commit $500 each month, divide the target by the monthly contribution: 12,000 ÷ 500 = 24 months. That two-year horizon is useful for planning because it shows the required discipline and lets you map other milestones around the schedule. Breaking the total into monthly steps makes the goal psychologically manageable and supports automation (set an automatic transfer each payday into a labeled savings account).

Beyond the raw math, consider risk and account choice. For a two-year goal, keep money in safe, liquid vehicles — a high-yield savings account or short-term CDs — to avoid market volatility that could undermine near-term savings. Account naming (e.g., “House Down Payment”) improves visibility and reduces temptation to reallocate funds. If you fall behind due to a short-term shock, reassess whether to increase the monthly contribution, extend the timeline, or supplement with a windfall. Also plan for related costs like inspections and closing fees so the $12,000 target includes realistic add-ons or you have a small contingency fund.