A new kind of first-time buyer 
The idea of climbing the property ladder one rung at a time is changing. According to The Times, more first-time buyers are bypassing the traditional one-bed flat or compact terrace in favour of something larger and longer-term. The shift is not just about preference it is about priorities, and a smarter view of future-proofing. 

Why the starter home is being left behind 
Once seen as a natural entry point, the starter home is losing appeal. Rising rental costs mean buyers are staying at home longer, saving for bigger deposits and skipping the middle step entirely. Others are combining resources with partners or family members to buy a property they can grow into, rather than out of. 

Space, stability and working from home 
What many first-time buyers want now is a home that fits a fuller lifestyle. This often includes a home office, a spare room for visitors, or even a garden for children who are not here yet but will be. Remote working has made location more flexible, and buyers are putting space above postcode. In short, they are buying the life they want to build, not just the one they have now. 

The long game of homeownership 
Choosing a family-sized home early may feel ambitious, but it is proving to be a sound strategy. Avoiding two sets of moving costs, fees and upheaval makes financial and emotional sense. These buyers are thinking long term, and their decisions reflect a desire for stability as well as value. 

Advice for sellers of larger homes 
If you are selling a property with multiple bedrooms or versatile living space, the takeaway is clear. Do not assume your buyer will be upsizing. First-timers are coming in with big plans and clear intentions. Staging your home to reflect flexibility such as showing a study or a playroom could speak directly to this growing audience. 

 
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