Older start-ups are taking up an increasing share of the market: in 2025, one in five (22%) FTBs were over 40 years old, compared to 18% in 2024, Santander data shows.
While the average age of FTBs has moved closer to 40 in recent years, data from the lender also shows a sharp rise in the number of over-60s buying their first home, up 14% compared to 2024.
The oldest FTB helped in 2025 was 70 years old, compared to 67 years old in 2024.
Despite welcome progress in lending policies and regulations aimed at helping young people onto the property ladder, the share of buyers aged 25 and under has fallen sharply over the past year, falling by almost a quarter (23%) between 2024 and 2025.
However, the youngest FTB this year was 18 years old, highlighting that acquiring your own home does not necessarily equate to age.
David Morris, head of Santander, said: “Our recent data shows that it is never too late to realize your home ownership dream. This year has very much been the year of the buyer, with regulatory changes giving buyers renewed confidence that home ownership is within reach.”
“Whether it’s buying with family gifts, relying on inherited wealth or simply saving for decades to secure a down payment, we’re pleased to have helped so many first-time buyers get into the market over the generations.”
“But more can be done, and our data also points to a growing disparity in first-time homeownership rates, with the gap between younger and older generations widening as the market grapples with the impact of stamp duty changes and a lack of supply.”