Over two in five (41%) prospective buyers are still waiting for a “sign” before taking a step onto the housing ladder, a new study by Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) has suggested.

MAB’s research also indicated that over half (52%) of prospective buyers are ready to buy a house in 2026, however.

The findings, based on online survey conducted by MAB and Atomik Research among 1,001 UK adults, also showed that three quarters (75%) said they feel positive about their mortgage options, despite concerns around affordability, market conditions, and uncertainty about what they can borrow cited as reasons delaying decision-making.

MAB added that its findings highlight a “widening disconnect” between confidence and action. The group said that while many aspiring buyers feel financially prepared, hesitation driven by confusion and misconceptions is holding them back.

“First-time buyers today are more resilient, prepared and motivated than ever before, but too many are still held back by uncertainty and misconceptions about affordability,” director of home moving strategy at MAB, Ben Thompson, commented.

“Over the past year, we’ve seen real changes in affordability, supported by regulatory developments, evolving lending criteria and alternative routes to the ladder – giving buyers more options than ever before, but not always the confidence to act.”

MAB’s study revealed that 47% of prospective buyers said stability and security is their biggest motivation for buying, while 37% were focused on building long-term wealth.

However, these ambitions are being tempered by perceived financial barriers, with 45% of prospective buyers citing high property prices as a key obstacle, and 44% stating that saving for a deposit is holding them back.

Over three in 10 (31%) admitted they lack understanding of the homebuying process itself, which MAB noted shows that confusion and a lack of guidance can be just as significant as financial constraints – creating a “confidence gap” among aspiring buyers, where ambition is high, but action is delayed.

“Speaking to a mortgage adviser can help bridge that gap, giving buyers a clear view of what they can afford, what they can borrow and the support available to them,” Thompson added. “With the right advice, what feels out of reach can quickly become achievable.”

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