More aspiring female first-time buyers plan to purchase a home on their own rather than with a partner according to new research from Skipton Building Society.
A nationwide study found that 37% of women intend to buy solo, compared with 35% who plan to purchase with a partner. Independence is the biggest driver, with 50% citing it as their top motivation.
A further 41% want full control over where they live, while 36% see solo homeownership as a long-term investment in their future.
However, significant financial hurdles remain. The research shows that 38% struggle to save for a deposit on one income, 37% worry about covering legal and survey costs alone, and 34% are concerned about being approved for a mortgage without a second income.
INDEPENDENCE DAY
Despite the challenges, 89% of aspiring solo female buyers say it is important to achieve homeownership independently.
To help renters who are financially ready to buy but constrained by deposit requirements, Skipton offers its Track Record Mortgage, a 100% loan-to-value product for borrowers with a strong and consistent rental payment history.
Jen Lloyd, Head of Mortgage Products & Proposition at Skipton Building Society, said:
“Our research shows that solo buyers, particularly women, are incredibly driven, yet face a disproportionate number of barriers.
“From saving for a deposit on one income to covering all the upfront costs alone, the challenges can feel overwhelming. But they shouldn’t stand in the way of people pursuing homeownership on their own terms.”
“It’s clear there’s strong demand for more flexible, accessible products that reflect how people live today. As a building society founded on fairness, we’re committed to designing solutions that genuinely make a difference.
“That’s why we created our Track Record Mortgage – to support renters who are financially ready to buy but locked out by traditional deposit requirements. We also want to raise greater awareness of support already available, so solo buyers feel seen, supported and confident on their path to owning a home.”
