New research from Mortgage Advice Bureau (MAB) has revealed that more than half (52%) of prospective buyers say they’re ready to buy in 2026, but four in ten (41%) are still waiting for a ‘sign’ before taking the plunge.
Despite growing confidence, with three-quarters (75%) saying they feel positive about their mortgage options, many aspiring buyers are holding back at the final hurdle. Concerns around affordability, market conditions, and uncertainty about what they can borrow continue to delay decision-making.
This highlights a widening disconnect between confidence and action. While many aspiring buyers feel financially prepared, hesitation driven by confusion and misconceptions is holding them back. MAB’s findings suggest the barrier is no longer just financial, but one of clarity and confidence, with many closer to purchasing than they realise.
The research shows that homeownership remains a powerful goal for prospective buyers, with lifestyle and financial drivers firmly intact. Nearly half (47%) say stability and security is their biggest motivation for buying, 41% want the freedom to decorate or own pets, and 37% are focused on building long-term wealth.
However, these ambitions are being tempered by perceived financial barriers. 45% cite high property prices as a key obstacle, 44% say saving for a deposit is holding them back, and nearly a third (31%) admit they lack understanding of the homebuying process itself, highlighting that confusion and lack of guidance can be just as significant as financial constraints.
This creates a ‘confidence gap’ among aspiring buyers, where ambition is high, but action is delayed.
This comes despite broader signs of resilience in the housing market, with first-time buyers continuing to drive mortgage activity in 2026. Against a backdrop of ongoing market volatility and economic uncertainty, affordability conditions have shifted in recent months.
Despite this, regulatory changes, evolving lending criteria, alongside more flexible deposit options and increased use of family support, are helping to open more routes onto the ladder. However, while conditions are gradually stabilising, many remain uncertain about what’s realistically within reach.
The research suggests that the major challenge facing prospective buyers is no longer just financial. Despite evolving mortgage products and changing borrowing conditions, many remain unaware of what may already be within their reach.
Ben Thompson, director of home moving strategy, Mortgage Advice Bureau, said: "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.
"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.
"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. With the right advice, what feels out of reach can quickly become achievable."
