New research has identified the parts of Britain recording the highest levels of first-time buyer activity, with commuter towns and well-connected regional centres performing particularly strongly.

The study, conducted by HouseBuyers4u and reported by Mortgage Strategy, compared the number of first-time buyer mortgage purchases completed during 2024 with the total number of homes in each local authority.

Dartford in Kent came out on top, recording 965 first-time buyer purchases—the equivalent of 19.36 sales for every 1,000 homes in the area.

Britain’s top areas for first-time buyer activity

The ten highest-ranking areas were:

1. Dartford – 19.36 first-time buyer sales per 1,000 homes

2. Nuneaton and Bedworth – 16.86

3. Wandsworth – 16.52

4. Swindon – 16.10

5. Rushmoor – 15.83

6. Rugby – 15.80

7. Bracknell Forest – 15.54

8. City of Edinburgh – 15.48

9. Central Bedfordshire – 15.45

10. Waltham Forest – 15.17

Edinburgh recorded the largest number of first-time buyer purchases overall, with 4,106 transactions. However, its larger housing stock meant it ranked eighth when the number of purchases was calculated relative to the size of the local market.

Why are commuter areas proving popular?

Several commuter locations appear prominently in the rankings, including Dartford, Bracknell Forest and Central Bedfordshire.

This may reflect the compromise many first-time buyers are making between affordability, employment opportunities and transport connections. Buyers who cannot—or do not want to—pay city-centre prices may be looking slightly further afield while retaining access to major employment centres.

The ability to work remotely or on a hybrid basis may also give some buyers more freedom when deciding where to live.

Does this mean these are the cheapest places to buy?

Not necessarily.

The research measures the number of first-time buyer mortgage purchases relative to the number of homes in each area. It does not mean that every location in the top ten offers the lowest house prices or is automatically the most affordable.

Wandsworth, for example, remains an expensive part of London but still recorded a high level of first-time buyer activity.

A location may attract first-time buyers for several reasons, including:

• Access to transport and employment

• The availability of suitable starter homes

• Local wages and borrowing capacity

• Regeneration and new housing developments

• Proximity to family and support networks

House prices are only one part of the calculation. Buyers must also consider mortgage repayments, council tax, commuting expenses, service charges and the general cost of living.

Look beyond the headline purchase price

A cheaper property is not always the more affordable option over the longer term. A longer or more expensive commute, higher maintenance costs or substantial service charges can quickly reduce the apparent saving.

Before committing to an area or property, first-time buyers should understand:

• How much they can realistically borrow

• The deposit and purchase costs they will need

• Whether the monthly payments remain comfortable

• The condition and likely running costs of the property

• Whether the home will remain suitable for the next few years

Getting an Agreement in Principle before beginning serious viewings can provide a clearer budget and show estate agents that you are in a position to proceed.

Thinking about buying your first home?

There is no single “best” place for every first-time buyer. The right location is one that balances affordability with your work, family, lifestyle and longer-term plans.

At Chetwood Lloyd Mortgages, we can review your circumstances, explain how much you may be able to borrow and compare mortgage options from more than 100 lenders.

Our mortgage advice is independent, straightforward and fee-free.