This is Money Podcast Should you try to take a big jump up the property ladder?
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Sep 20, 2025 First-time buyers are increasingly borrowing large amounts to skip initial steps on the property ladder, opting for bigger homes while demand for flats declines. The discussion dives into the risks of overstretching finances and the changing buyer preferences in housing. The fading allure of buy-to-let investments is explored alongside Britain’s persistent inflation concerns. Listeners also learn about a new savings account featuring a prize draw—should you take the plunge?
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First-Time Buyers Jump To Bigger Homes
- First-time buyers increasingly buy larger houses and skip flats as they buy later in life.
- They stretch mortgages longer (30–40 years) to afford bigger homes and future-proof for families.
Calculate True Cost Before Extending Terms
- Use a longer mortgage term only after calculating the true long-term interest cost.
- Try the ThisIsMoney true cost mortgage calculator to compare 25–40 year differences before committing.
Lockdown Changed Home Preferences
- COVID lockdowns shifted buyer preferences toward houses with space and gardens.
- This change helps explain part of the declining demand for flats, especially in city markets.