How large a deposit are Halifax satisfied with? (not the absolute amount, but rather what share of a mortgage is wanted as a deposit?). Because I also think of getting myself this at a somewhat later point, and I'm also here on a work permit.

My bank (Barclays) has informed me that until I get my ILR, the only mortgage I can get starts with min. 30% deposit (OUCH!) and is just a standard variable rate one (the best options like "offset mortgage" are not available from them without a permanent resident status).