As recent cultural shifts and demographic studies highlight a growing trend of young adults choosing to stay single or delay traditional relationships, new survey data reveals how this movement is reshaping the UK housing market.
According to new research from online mortgage broker Mojo Mortgages, over half (52%) of prospective buyers have either considered or would consider buying a home with a non-romantic partner, such as a friend or family member, to secure their first property. This figure rises among younger buyers, reaching 61% for Gen Z.
The findings point to the emergence of 'platonic co-buying' as a key strategy for single individuals who want to step onto the property ladder without waiting for a romantic partner or facing the steep financial challenge of purchasing alone.
Data from Mojo Mortgages shows that buying alone is already standard practice for many. In 2025, 53% of Mojo’s applicants were sole buyers, slightly outnumbering joint applicants (47.5%). Whilst nearly 30% of first-time buyers surveyed said they would only buy a property with a partner, nearly 1 in 5 (19%) said they would only consider buying a property alone. Maintaining independence is becoming more important for many, but with extra financial pressure, solo buyers face more hurdles.
However, buying independently comes with a significant affordability gap. In 2025, joint applicants put down an average deposit of £97,000, compared to £68,000 for sole buyers.
Sole applicants are typically limited to borrowing 4 to 5 times a single salary. On an average UK salary of £39,000, a single buyer can expect to borrow between £156,000 and £195,000 - a stark contrast to dual-income households, who borrowed 48% more on average (£301,000 vs. £203,000).
Interestingly, whilst 18-24 year olds were most likely to buy with friends (23%), those aged 65+ were second most likely to buy with friends to get on the property ladder (20%), showing there is no defining age limit on this trend.
While buying a home with a friend offers distinct advantages - such as splitting deposit costs, sharing day-to-day bills, and significantly boosting total borrowing power - it remains a major financial and legal commitment.
Before signing on the dotted line, buyers considering a joint mortgage with a friend should keep the following key factors in mind:
• Joint financial liability: In the eyes of a lender, both buyers are 100% jointly liable for the mortgage repayments. If your friend experiences financial difficulty and falls behind on their share of the payments, you remain legally responsible for ensuring the full monthly amount is paid to avoid damaging your own credit score.
• Structuring ownership (tenants in common vs. joint tenants): Most friends co-buying opt for a tenants in common structure rather than joint tenants. This allows each individual to own a specific percentage share of the property, which is especially useful if one person contributes a larger portion of the initial deposit.
• Drawing up a declaration of trust: Working with a solicitor to draft a declaration of trust (and a cohabitation agreement) is essential. This legally binding document outlines exactly who paid what toward the deposit, how monthly payments and maintenance costs are split, and how equity will be divided if the property is sold.
• Planning an exit strategy: Friendships and life plans evolve over time. Before purchasing, agree on a clear long-term strategy for scenarios such as one partner wanting to move out, buy the other out, sell the home, or bring in a romantic partner.
• Choosing the right type of property: Selecting a home that maintains good resale value (such as a property in a desirable location with separate bedrooms/bathrooms and strong general appeal) ensures a smoother transition should either buyer need to sell or exit the mortgage in the future.
John Fraser-Tucker, head of Mortgages at Mojo Mortgages, commented: "With more young people prioritising independence and choosing to stay single, property ownership strategies are evolving rapidly. Buying solo is completely achievable, but when relying on one salary, the main barrier isn't eligibility, it's borrowing power.
"For those who want to buy without a romantic partner, non-romantic co-buying with friends or siblings is becoming a genuine alternative. However, for those who prefer sole ownership, there are several lesser-known pathways to boost affordability without taking on a full joint mortgage."
