THE future is looking brighter for first time buyers, with more feeling optimistic about getting onto the property ladder.

Research by the specialist lending bank Aldemore has revealed that the number of first time buyers who believe it is “extremely difficult” to get onto the ladder, has fallen from 39 per cent in 2016 to 35 per cent now.

There has also been a fall in the number who say high property prices are the biggest barrier, from 37 per cent in 2016 to 27 per cent.

The figures come from the First Time Buyers Index published by Aldemore, which also found that more first time buyers are willing to go it alone rather than relying on help from friends and family, when saving for a mortgage.

Currently 59 per cent are living with or would consider living with their family in order to save for a deposit, compared to 69 per cent cited in 2016.

The study also found that while high property prices are less of an issue, mortgage affordability and difficulty actually securing a mortgage are increasingly viewed as the biggest barriers for first time buyers.

Charles McDowell, Aldemore’s Commercial Director, Mortgages, said: “Over the past year, we have tracked the outlook for first time buyers as well as the obstacles they are facing to get on the property ladder.

“Although property prices remain a hurdle, slower house price increases have given a glimmer of hope to those trying to get on the ladder for the first time. Instead mortgage affordability and difficulties in securing a mortgage are becoming more of an issue for first time buyers.”