The latest research by Yes Homebuyers has found that a third of homebuyers have been helped onto the property ladder as a result of lockdown. 

It’s been a long road and the end is (hopefully) near, with an exit plan in place to gradually reduce lockdown restrictions.

However, Yes Homebuyers has found that there has been one silver lockdown lining for 27% of recent homebuyers, who say that the numerous stretches of restrictions over the last year have helped them save to get on the property ladder. 

Lockdown restrictions have impacted all areas of life from our ability to travel, work, socialise and see family. 

The research from Yes Homebuyers shows that there is one clear winner when it comes to the driving force behind a homebuyer saving boost.

46% of those asked stated that the drastically reduced spend across their social life helped them to get a foot on the ladder. 

A further 33% saw working from home and a lack of commuting help bump up their real estate nest egg. 

A reduction in family costs has helped 10%, while 6% received an inheritance due to bereavement and 5% saved on rent due to moving back home with their parents. 

Matthew Cooper, Founder & Managing Director of Yes Homebuyers, commented:

“There’s no one on the planet who wouldn’t like to erase the last year from history and lockdown has been hard for so many people for a whole variety of reasons. At the same time, there have been some great stories of resolve, survival and adaption emerging across all areas of life and this is indicative of our nation and how we come together when times are tough.

While we’re all chomping at the bit to get back to some form of normality, it’s also great to see that for a third of homebuyers lockdown has, at least, helped them to achieve their goals of homeownership. 

With little else to spend our money on and a further saving due to the stamp duty holiday, there’s never been a better time to get a foot on the ladder and hopefully, many more will continue to benefit.”

Survey of 1,485 recent UK homebuyers (last 12 months) carried out by Yes Homebuyers via Find Out Now (16th March 2021).

Has being in lockdown helped you save to get on the housing ladder?
Answer	Respondents
No	73%
Yes	27%
How were your savings boosted? (Tick all that apply)
Answer	Respondents
Reduced spend on social life	46%
Reduce commuting costs	33%
Reduced family costs	10%
Inheritance from a bereavement	6%
Reduced rent as moved home with parents	5%

END

Notes to editors: – 

–          Yes Homebuyers buys your home directly from you so you don’t have to wait around to find a buyer on the regular market. 

–          They offer flexible time frames to suit you and on average, complete a sale within 30 days. 

–          Yes Homebuyers quickest completed sale came within six days. 

–          They guarantee the price they will pay, unlike some buying platforms who reduce their offer shortly before completion.

–          There are no fees or costs involved and Yes Homebuyers covers all legal fees involved.

–          There are no contracts or tie-ins, even if you accept an offer and no viewings to take care of.

–          Matthew Cooper has an extensive knowledge of the market having worked in mortgage lender asset management prior to starting Yes Homebuyers.