Nearly half (49%) of first-time buyers (FTBs) in the UK purchased their first home between the ages of 25 and 34, according to the First-time Buyers Report from Barratt Homes.
The report found the average age of FTBs outside London increased from 30.6 to 33.6 years over the past 20 years.
31% bought between 18 to 24, 12% between 35 to 44, and 8% at 45 or older.
The number of solo buyers rose, with 40% purchasing alone as solo households increased by 16% over two decades.
Semi-detached houses were the most popular choice for FTBs at 36%, followed by terraced houses at 32%, flats at 19%, and detached homes at 13%.
Nearly half of buyers spent around three months viewing properties before buying.
29% searched for up to six months, while 21% looked for over a year, including 6% who took two years.
Spring was the most popular time for house hunting, with Google data showing over 5.8 million searches.
Summer followed with 5.1 million, winter with 4.6 million, and autumn with 4.4 million.
When asked why they wanted to buy a home, 28% said it was for more personal space.
A quarter (25%) wanted to move in with a partner, 19% wanted to move out of the family home, and 17% said starting a family was the main reason.
Other reasons included wanting to decorate freely (8%) and to live closer to work (4%).
Price and location were the main factors when choosing a home.
39% said the size and layout was most important, followed by commute time (16%) and neighbourhood safety (14%).
Public transport (10%), green spaces (7%), school catchment areas (7%), supermarkets (6%), and takeaway options (1%) were also mentioned.
