New research from Skipton Building Society has revealed a shift in buyer behaviour among aspiring first-time buyers, with 44% now considering new builds compared with 30% looking at older properties.
The findings, based on a survey of 1,000 potential homeowners for Skipton’s “SKIPto” campaign, highlight modern features, energy efficiency and ease of moving as key drivers of the trend.
According to the report, 53% of respondents cited modern conveniences as the main appeal of a new build, while 37% valued energy efficiency and 31% welcomed the lack of a property chain.
More than half (53%) said they preferred the simplicity of moving into a ready-made home, while 31% wanted to avoid the stress of chain delays.
Outdoor space was crucial for 22% of respondents, and 19% said build quality would be the deciding factor before committing to a purchase.
However, affordability remains a concern. More than half (52%) said new builds in their area were unaffordable, while 60% feared there would not be enough supply to meet demand.
The research also found 35% of first-time buyers view saving for a deposit as their biggest challenge, underscoring a major barrier to homeownership.
To address this, Skipton continues to offer flexible lending solutions, including its Track Record Mortgage and 95% LTV products for new build houses and flats.
Jonathan Evans, new build lead at Skipton Building Society, said: “Our aim is simple… to be transparent, reliable and provide mortgage options that make sense.
“We know that affordability and deposit barriers are real concerns for many first-time buyers, especially in the new build market.
“That’s why we’ve developed solutions like our Track Record Mortgage and 95% LTV products, to help renters and aspiring homeowners take that crucial first step.
“By listening to brokers and understanding the challenges their clients face, we’re building a proposition that’s not just competitive, but genuinely supportive.
“Our lending criteria is designed with brokers in mind, clear, flexible and built to help them place more cases with confidence.”
Skipton’s Track Record Mortgage offers up to 100% loan-to-value for renters who can demonstrate a consistent 12-month rental payment history over the past 18 months, while a 95% LTV option supports those able to save a deposit.
The lender also provides 9-month offers with the option of a 3-month extension, no application fees on all products and no completion fees on selected ranges.
With 58% of first-time buyers planning to use a mortgage broker, Skipton’s proposition also includes dedicated tools and support through its intermediary portal and business development team.
