First-Time buyer numbers increase first half 2016

what is happening to house prices

The numbers of first-time buyers made up 47 per cent of the mortgage market in the first half of 2016, that was an increase of an estimated 10 per cent  year on year, according to Halifax.

Chris Gowland, Mortgages Director at Halifax, said:

“There was a further increase in the number of first-time buyers in the first half of the year with the total exceeding 100,000 in the first six months of each year since 2012.

“This rise has been broadly in line with a general improvement in market activity and is likely to have been helped by government measures including the Help to Buy scheme.

“Although numbers remain below their previous peaks and many potential first-time buyers are facing escalating house prices and deposit sizes, record low mortgage rates continue to make buying seem a more attractive option than renting.”

Allen Walkey

Highly experienced businessman with a successful career in property sales and investment both in the UK and abroad. Now a freelance writer and blogger for the property and Investment Industry, keeping readers up-to-date with changes and events in a rapidly changing world.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

Homebuyer demand returns following Autumn Budget

New research from Property DriveBuy reveals that Bristol, Tyne & Wear, and South Yorkshire emerged as the UK’s most in-demand areas of the housing market following the Autumn Budget, with as many as 61% of homes listed for sale successfully securing a buyer in Q4 2025. Property Drivebuy analysed residential listings data across the nation…
Read More
Breaking News

Economic uncertainty tops agents’ worries in 2026

“Make-or-break” 2026 looms for estate agents as costs, red tape and reform pile pressure on sector Agents warn of ‘survival year’ ahead as new Alto Agency Trends Report reveals deep fears over rising costs and regulation UK estate and letting agents are heading into 2026 fearing a make-or-break year, as soaring costs, economic uncertainty and…
Read More
Estate Agent Talk

Strategies to Boost Estate Agent Networking

In the competitive world of UK property sales, mastering estate agent networking can transform your business trajectory. For instance, agents who prioritize targeted connections often see a surge in referrals and listings. This article explores 7 proven strategies drawn from industry insights, helping you build lasting professional relationships without relying on outdated tactics.​ Introduction to Estate Agent Networking Estate…
Read More
Letting Agent Talk

Why now is actually a great time to be a landlord

By Allison Thompson, National Lettings Managing Director, Leaders.  For the past few years, there has been a succession of reports in the media about landlords selling up and quitting the industry. And it’s true that as legislation has been tightened and renters’ rights have been prioritised, it now takes more time, effort and knowledge to…
Read More
Breaking News

Modest house price growth may offset easing mortgage costs for home buyers this year

Analysis of new data* from Moneyfactscompare.co.uk illustrates how easing mortgage rates may allow for a modest growth in house prices in 2026 without improving or worsening current affordability pressures on first-time buyers and homemovers. *Consumers comparing mortgage deals on moneyfactscompare.co.uk in 2025 and Moneyfacts Average Mortgage Rates. First-time buyers Typical first-time buyers borrowed around £236,000 in…
Read More
Breaking News

More than 428 homes repossessed every month

New analysis from Springbok Properties reveals that based on historic trends an estimated 428 homes could be repossessed each month in 2026, a fact which threatens to create stress and concern for any families starting the new year off under financial pressure. Springbok Properties’ has analysed property repossession data from the UK House Price Index*…
Read More