| 30% of Brits moved home in the past three years, motivated by lifestyle changes and space | One in six homeowners plan to relocate this year, with garages and gardens top priorities | Renters face affordability challenges, with many needing family support to buy their first home. |
After a busy period in the housing market, there seems to be plenty of appetite left among homeowners and renters for seeking pastures new, research1 suggests.
Keep on moving
Some 30% of Brits have moved home in the past three years. The main motivations for doing so have included lifestyle improvements (17%), a desire to be closer to family and friends (17%) and finding a bigger home (15%).
There is no sign that the moving frenzy is over: one in six existing homeowners intend to relocate this year. In 2025, top priorities for prospective buyers are garages or driveways (40%), which came out narrowly ahead of gardens (39%) and functional spaces like pantries or utility rooms (32%).
A foot on the ladder
Among renters, one in five think that home ownership is within their reach during the next five years. Yet, affordability concerns remain at the forefront for many: property prices (40%) and the amount needed for a deposit (37%) are respondents’ two biggest barriers to home ownership. Besides, six in 10 renters believe it would be impossible to buy a home without support from a family member.
Staying put
For homeowners who are staying put, many are focused on sprucing up instead: some 43% are considering renovating or redecorating. Meanwhile, a quarter plan to update their property to boost energy efficiency.
1Barclays, 2025
As a mortgage is secured against your home or property, it could be repossessed if you do not keep up mortgage repayments.