With the average house price in the UK reaching £298,083 as of 6th December 2024, first-time buyers are facing increasing challenges in entering the property market. Soaring rents, high inflation, and rising interest rates have made homeownership an elusive dream for many.
However, new research has highlighted 45 affordable hotspots in England where prospective buyers can still purchase a 2 or 3-bedroom house for under £100,000 – and all in areas boasting outstanding primary schools.
Research conducted by Property Saviour, a leading UK property buying company, has identified 45 locations offering affordable housing opportunities for first-time buyers.
The initiative was spearheaded by CEO Saddat Abid, a former primary school governor, who used his experience to create a stringent set of criteria that goes beyond just price.
“We sought to identify areas where couples on the national living wage could realistically purchase a home,” said Abid.
“With the rise of remote working, these locations present a unique opportunity for young professionals to enter the property market while maintaining their current employment.”
The criteria for affordable housing
The research criteria set by Property Saviour are notably rigorous. To qualify as a hotspot, the areas had to meet the following conditions:
- The local primary schools must have received an ‘Outstanding’ rating from Ofsted within the last three years.
- Schools that were labelled as ‘Consistently Outstanding’ were required to have achieved this top rating in at least two consecutive inspections.
- The local property market needed to offer two or three-bedroom houses for under £100,000.
Abid explained that the aim was to offer a comprehensive guide for first-time buyers, ensuring that the affordability of the property is paired with quality educational opportunities for families.
“Finding affordable homes near great schools is crucial for young families who want to secure their financial and educational future,” he added.
This meticulous approach meant that many locations were excluded from the research.
Areas where property prices were too high or where school inspections were outdated did not make the cut.
The research spanned several weeks, ensuring a thorough review of the available housing stock and school performances in each area.
“The focus on quality education alongside affordable housing was key in our research. We wanted to ensure that first-time buyers have a real shot at homeownership, but also the peace of mind that comes with sending their children to top-rated schools,” said Abid.
Key Findings: 45 Affordable Hotspots
The result of Property Saviour’s in-depth analysis is a list of 45 hotspots that combine affordable housing and access to high-performing primary schools.
These areas, ranging from smaller towns to up-and-coming suburban locales, offer first-time buyers a rare opportunity to purchase property at a reasonable price while ensuring their children receive a quality education.
“This research will help young professionals and families find places where they can not only afford to buy their first home but also feel confident about their children’s futures,” Abid said.
With housing prices continuing to rise in many areas, these 45 hotspots present valuable opportunities for first-time buyers looking to get on the property ladder.
As demand for affordable housing grows, these areas may continue to rise in prominence, offering buyers a much-needed solution in an increasingly challenging housing market.
For those on a budget but prioritising education, this list provides the perfect combination of both, offering hope for many young families eager to secure a stable future.