First comes love…

13-Apr-2006

New research suggests that many first time buyers are waiting until they are in a committed long term relationship before entering into the property market.

A survey conducted by Alliance and Leicester revealed that one in four potential buyers have decided to wait until they have someone to buy with.

Around 39 per cent of people viewed buying a first home as something that should be done within a relationship, as it is such a major commitment, reports 24dash.com.

Aspiring first time buyers considering affordable housing options should work with a good mortgage broker

"It seems that bricks and mortar are on the way to becoming the new marriage vows, with single people even wanting to delay buying their first property until they have found 'the one'," explained Stephen Leonard, director of mortgages at Alliance & Leicester.

However, some single people did also show a determination to get on the first rung of the property ladder, with one in four considering buying with a friend to share the cost.

Find out more about the housebuying process in the FirstRungNow Home Buyer's Guide

Around one in ten said they would purchase with a family member, while 38 per cent were happy to buy alone and preferred the independence it would bring.

Click here to see what properties are on the market in your area – whether you buy alone or with others

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