THE average first-time buyer is seven years older than their 1960s equivalent.

Research found that those taking their first step on the housing ladder are typically aged 30 and must scrape together a deposit of more than £20,000.

The poll, which looked at 2,000 adults, found a huge generational difference for those buying their first home.

The majority of those polled feel it is harder than ever before to buy a house.

In 1960, the average first-time buyer was aged just 23. They paid a £595 deposit on their first home, the equivalent of about £12,738 today.

James Thomson, CEO of Keepmoat Homes, which commissioned the research, found the results highly concerning.

He said: "It’s worrying to see just how much tougher things have become, particularly since 2000, with the research showing house prices have risen by over £55,000 and the average deposit has increased significantly from £12,988 in 2000 to £20,622 today.

"It isn't surprising that the research revealed 69 per cent of people think it’s now harder than ever to buy a home."

Mr Thomson added: "As the UK’s leading homebuilder for first-time buyers we understand better than anyone the challenges that come with getting onto the property ladder.

"In fact we sell 72 per cent of our homes to first-time buyers and so the results of the research were very interesting for us.”

Researchers found homebuyers in the 1960s spent just over two years saving for a deposit of £595 – with an average household income of £2,854 at the time.

But those who have bought since 2011 spent more than five years saving a deposit of £20,622 – more than half the £35,634 average annual household income.

Another notable change is the marital status of those buying their first home.

While 84 per cent of first-time buyers were married back in 1960, this has dropped to just 27 per cent in recent years. This shows a major change in society.

In fact, first-time buyers are more likely to be in a relationship today rather than married to their partner.