For Gen Z, concerns were more concentrated on financial matters. Saving for a deposit was cited by 39% as an area of low confidence, while 36% said they were uncertain about how much they could afford to borrow.
Separate Barclays mortgage data shows that the majority of property purchases are for houses, with flats more prevalent among first-time buyers. Previous Barclays research also found that 85% of owner-occupied homes in England and Wales contain at least one spare bedroom, suggesting potential capacity within existing housing stock if downsizing barriers — including high transaction costs and a shortage of suitable properties — were addressed.
“New homes are critical to easing tension in the housing supply, but attitudes towards development are nuanced,” said Jatin Patel (pictured right), head of mortgages, savings and insurance at Barclays. “While UK consumers are broadly supportive of efforts to increasing housing supply, this has to be in step with investment in local infrastructure, healthcare and transport links.
“Homeowners also need confidence that they can navigate the process of buying, selling and financing a move. Supporting mobility throughout the market, from first-time buyers getting onto the ladder to homeowners right-sizing into properties that better suit their needs, will be key to helping more people achieve their housing ambitions.”
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