Buying a home is an exciting and optimistic time, but it also comes with many stresses and uncertainties. Among the biggest causes of stress for prospective homebuyers are affordability, supply, the leasehold system and Stamp Duty, new research suggests.
Leasehold leader
The survey, which has tracked UK housing concerns for the past decade, found that the leasehold system is the fastest-growing cause for concern, with 42% more buyers citing this as a key area of worry than 10 years earlier.
Similarly, Stamp Duty rates have seen a steady rise in anxiety, from 52% a decade ago to around 64% now. The home buying and selling process itself was cited by around 60% as a key concern, up by 9% since 2015.
Affordability crowned again
Nothing can compete with affordability, which again topped the list of biggest worries. More than four in five respondents named house prices as stress-inducing, ahead of:
saving for a deposit (79%),
housing quality (77%),
availability of housing (75%).
Meanwhile, issues such as the cost of living, mortgage costs, economic uncertainty and the rising cost of Stamp Duty were the most mentioned financial troubles.
Facing the fears
Getting on the housing ladder is no easy task. With the right support, it is possible to address these issues and take a proactive approach to dealing with them. Knowing the key challenges is already a great start – allowing you to begin your homebuying journey with open eyes.
🚨 Data accurate as of the date of publication
🚨 The above material is for informational purposes only and does not constitute a sales offer or financial advice. Before taking out any insurance, credit agreement or other financial product, you should obtain individual advice on your requirements and the general terms of the contract.
Source: Quilter Financial Planning – Essentially Mortgages Q3 2025
