Homeownership dreams are being realized later in life more often, according to new data from Santander. In 2025, the oldest first-time buyer supported by the bank was 70 years old, underscoring a growing trend of older individuals entering the housing market for the first time.
The proportion of first-time buyers aged 60 and over increased by 14% compared to 2024, while the share of buyers aged 25 and under declined by 23%. Despite this shift, the youngest first-time buyer this year was just 18, illustrating that age isn’t the sole factor in accessing homeownership.
David Morris, Head of Homes at Santander, emphasized the encouraging signs for buyers of all ages: “Our recent data shows it is never too late to realize your homeownership dream. This year has been the year of the buyer, helped by regulatory changes boosting confidence in the market. Whether through family gifts, inherited wealth, or long-term savings, we’re proud to support first-time buyers across generations.”
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However, Morris also acknowledged challenges ahead: “The data reveals a widening gap between younger and older first-time buyers, driven by stamp duty changes and housing supply shortages. More needs to be done to ensure equal opportunities for all aspiring homeowners.”
Santander’s findings highlight that one in five first-time buyers in 2025 (22%) were over 40 years old, up from 18% in 2024, with the average first-time buyer’s age inching closer to 40. Notably, the percentage of buyers over 60 continues to grow, signaling a shift in when many people enter the property market.