According to a Halifax study, these locations have the biggest proportion of first-time buyers. Let’s find out why these locations are so popular…
Halifax has conducted a study looking at which areas of the UK first-time buyers make up the largest proportion of home sales. Manchester tops the list with first-time buyers being responsible for 75% of home sales in the city.
Let’s take a look at the top 10 first-time buyer hotspots and why they are so popular. You might just find the perfect spot for your first home…
Where are the most popular areas in the UK for first-time buyers?
Manchester
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 75%
Average first-time buyer house price: £212,891
This lively city is a fantastic spot for first-time buyers. With its buzzing economy, thriving job market, and exciting regeneration projects, Manchester is the ideal city for first-time buyers. The best part? Property prices here are much friendlier on the wallet compared to London and other major UK cities. It's an ideal choice if you're looking for great value without compromising on quality of life.
Slough
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 73%
Average first-time buyer house price: £322,961
Don't overlook Slough, the town is emerging as a brilliant option for first-time buyers. It's close to London but with much more affordable property prices - perfect if you work in the capital but find London prices a bit steep. Slough is getting a fabulous makeover with new homes, better infrastructure, and improved amenities. Plus, with many international companies based here, job opportunities are plentiful. The upcoming Crossrail link is set to make Slough even more appealing, potentially boosting your property value in the long run.
Sandwell
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 73%
Average first-time buyer house price: £179,058
If you're looking for a bargain, Sandwell in the West Midlands might be just the ticket. It offers some of the most affordable housing in the UK, perfect for those on a budget. But don't worry, you're not sacrificing quality of life here. Sandwell boasts plenty of parks and green spaces, such as Sandwell Valley Country Park and Dartmouth Park, striking a lovely balance between urban living and nature. With good transport links to Birmingham through Birmingham’s tram system and other major cities through local train stations, it's a great choice for first-time buyers seeking affordability whilst remaining well connected.
Reading
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 72%
Average first-time buyer house price: £302,616
Say hello to Reading, it's close to London but with more affordable property prices. Reading is home to many tech companies, with Microsoft, Oracle, Huawei & Cisco Systems all having locations in Reading & Thames Valley, so job opportunities are abundant. The town centre has had a lovely uplift, with new restaurants, entertainment venues and shopping centres, including ‘The Oracle’ which is home to many of the biggest name brands. And with excellent transport links, including the upcoming Crossrail service, Reading is a top choice for first-time buyers looking for a thriving community with great career prospects.
Leicester
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 72%
Average first-time buyer house price: £218,900
This diverse city offers a range of affordable properties, from modern flats to charming terraced houses. Leicester's economy is growing and diverse, with strengths in manufacturing, retail, and education, meaning career opportunities are endless. The city has seen significant investment recently, making it even more attractive. With its vibrant cultural scene, including the Leicester Museum & Art Gallery, theatres, and festivals, Leicester offers first-time buyers the chance to own a home in a city that's both affordable and full of life.
Thurrock
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 72%
Average first-time buyer house price: £286,391
Fancy living by the Thames? Thurrock in Essex might be the one for you. It's becoming quite the hotspot for first-time buyers, offering more affordable housing options compared to London. Thurrock is getting a fantastic makeover, with new housing developments, shopping centres, and improved infrastructure. Nature lovers will appreciate the country parks and nature reserves. With its mix of affordability, connectivity, and ongoing development, Thurrock is perfect for those looking to invest in an area with lots of potential.
Dartford
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 71%
Average first-time buyer house price: £314,090
Dartford in Kent is another brilliant option for those who work in London but dream of owning their own home. It offers more affordable housing prices while still being close to the capital. The town has excellent transport links via Southeastern Rail, making commuting a breeze. Whether you prefer high street shops or independent retailers, Dartford has you covered. And for those who love a bit of green, there are several parks and open spaces to enjoy, including Central Park and Darenth Country Park.
Knowsley
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 71%
Average first-time buyer house price: £157,139
Knowsley is the most affordable area on this list, with house prices sitting considerably lower than the majority of the UK, perfect for first-time buyers on a budget. But don't think you're compromising on quality of life - Knowsley is home to numerous parks and green spaces, including the famous Knowsley Safari Park which is home to some of Earth’s most exotic animals, including lions, giraffes & zebras. It is conveniently positioned between Manchester and Liverpool which makes it an ideal commuter town as well as making days out in the city a breeze. It's a great opportunity to own a home in an area that's affordable and has lots of potential for growth.
Wolverhampton
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 70%
Average first-time buyer house price: £172,554
Wolverhampton in the West Midlands is another fantastic option for first-time buyers. The city offers a range of affordable housing options to suit different tastes and budgets. Wolverhampton's economy is diverse, with strengths in aerospace, automotive, and creative industries, so job prospects are good. With good transport links to Birmingham and London, and a city centre offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment options, Wolverhampton is a great place to call home.
Luton
Percentage of first-time buyers amongst all buyers: 70%
Average first-time buyer house price: £245,207
Last but certainly not least, consider Luton in Bedfordshire. It's becoming increasingly popular among first-time buyers, offering more affordable property prices while still being close to London. Luton boasts excellent transport links, including fast train services to London and its own international airport and with the University of Bedfordshire adding a youthful vibe to the town, Luton offers first-time buyers the chance to own a home in an area that's affordable, well-connected, and full of potential.
