Young first-time buyers sacrificing safe neighbourhoods to afford homes
The race to get on the property ladder is forcing young people to make tough compromises — and new research suggests many are willing to move to less safe areas if it means they can finally afford to buy.
A Barclays analysis found that one in five young buyers aged 18 to 29 is prepared to relocate more than 25 miles away from where they currently live to make a property purchase happen. More worryingly, only 17 per cent of this age group prioritise neighbourhood safety when hunting for a home. For young buyers, affordability is everything — it’s simply the dominant factor shaping their search.
This contrasts sharply with older buyers (aged 62 to 80), who are far more willing to accept a property in worse condition than compromise on safety or outdoor space.
The research also reveals that deposit sizes have fallen significantly. Across the UK, the average deposit dropped by 16.4 per cent to £57,209 in the year to May 2026. London saw the sharpest fall — down 27.2 per cent to £136,057 — while East Anglia dropped 23.5 per cent and Scotland fell 14.5 per cent. Lower house prices in some regions and falling mortgage rates mean fewer upfront savings are needed, which is positive news for savers struggling to accumulate a deposit.
However, the housing market is slowing. Nearly nine in ten buyers and sellers reported delayed purchases, while 29 per cent experienced a sale falling through altogether. Conveyancing issues, estate agent delays and difficulty finding suitable properties are the main culprits. The average time from mortgage offer to completion has increased by 21.7 per cent year-on-year.
Economic uncertainty is also weighing on people’s minds. One in three consumers say they’re now more likely to delay buying or selling because of economic volatility, and many are increasing savings or cutting spending to protect themselves.
If you’re a young buyer considering moving to a cheaper area, do your homework: research local crime statistics, transport links, job prospects and future development plans. Don’t let price alone drive your decision. For help understanding your mortgage options and what you can afford, speak to a mortgage broker or your lender — they can help you find properties that tick both the affordability and safety boxes.