Overview

• First-time buyer inquiries in Great Britain’s regional cities rose 16% between January and May 2025 compared with the same period in 2015.
• Dundee led the surge with a 176% increase in demand, driven by its urban green space, cultural appeal and a sub-£121,000 average entry price.
• Interest in coastal hotspots has remained flat over the past decade despite a brief pandemic-driven bump in seaside and rural searches.
• London’s first-time buyer demand has fallen 7% as persistently high property prices, averaging £223,400, lock newcomers out of the market.
• Industry experts point to regional affordability gaps, enhanced urban amenities and the lasting impact of remote work on buyer preferences.