According to the Halifax Bank's list, nearly 60% of young people who have not yet purchased homes plan to buy in other areas of the country. This trend signifies a strong demand and desire for homeownership among young people, who are willing to explore more affordable housing opportunities nationwide.
Specifically, certain cities such as Hull, Middlesbrough, Folkestone, and Blackburn are seen as promising areas that may offer more opportunities for young people to purchase homes.
In order to better understand the housing decisions and preferences of young people, the UK Census Bureau conducted a survey of 3,000 individuals between the ages of 18 and 34 who have not yet purchased homes, in August this year.
Through this analysis, we can provide first-time homebuyers with information about areas with relatively lower house prices, giving them more choices in their homebuying decisions. However, factors such as employment opportunities, quality of life, and future development potential need to be considered in their homebuying decisions as well.
The survey results indicate a strong interest among those aged 35 and below in considering areas that are further away and more reasonably priced. This finding allows the bank to identify some promising locations that align with the top priorities of first-time homebuyers.
These areas may offer more affordable prices, good connectivity to major cities, good schools, and proximity to green spaces. These factors would make it more likely for first-time homebuyers to realize their dream of homeownership.
According to the bank's findings, here are some data points about potential first-time homebuyers:
Nearly half (44%) of potential first-time homebuyers are now considering areas they had never considered before their financial crisis. This might be due to the decline in house prices, making previously unattainable areas more feasible.
Two-fifths (40%) stated that they are looking for more affordable areas with better development prospects. This indicates their interest in areas with relatively lower house prices and potential for appreciation.
However, an equal proportion (41%) believes that the geographical location of their first home is more important than the property itself. This suggests that they are more concerned about the convenience, community environment, and transportation of the location.
Higher mortgage rates have led a quarter (41%) of aspiring homebuyers to delay their plans, with an average postponement of four years. High rates might make homeownership more expensive and less feasible.
Over half (55%) of individuals would reconsider the type of property they would be willing to purchase. This might be due to their need for greater caution in times of economic uncertainty or a change in their preferences and needs.
These data points reflect the various factors that potential first-time homebuyers consider when selecting a property, including economic conditions, geographical location, house prices, and mortgage rates. Homebuyers need to consider these factors comprehensively to make decisions that align with their own needs and circumstances.
According to the data from Halifax Bank, here are some promising local government areas for first-time homebuyers, including the average purchase prices for first-time buyers and the percentage difference compared to the wider area average prices.
These locations are not ranked, as individual buyers consider a range of priorities when choosing a location. Here are some areas suitable for first-time homebuyers:
Kingston in the northeast of England, with an average purchase price of £156,509, down 23%.
Middlesbrough in the northeast of England, with an average purchase price of £156,761, down 11%.
Port Talbot in Wales, with an average purchase price of £158,702, down 20%.
Derry City and Strabane in Northern Ireland, with an average purchase price of £160,636, down 8%.
Folkestone in Scotland, with an average purchase price of £165,511, down 12%.
Blackburn with Darwen in the northwest of England, with an average purchase price of £168,895, down 21%.
Aberdeen City in Scotland, with an average purchase price of £173,061, down 8%.
Telford and Wrekin in the Midlands, with an average purchase price of £213,741, down 10%.
The selection of these areas considers factors such as house prices and local amenities. These areas may provide relatively affordable housing options for first-time homebuyers and have development potential.