The Intermediary –- June 2026 - Flipbook - Page 21
RESIDENTIAL
Opinion
Supporting
next-steppers
F
or more than 150 years,
Leeds Building Society
has been helping people
secure a home. But that
the journey doesn’t stop
at that first step onto
the property ladder. For many, the
second step is becoming increasingly
difficult. While buying a first home
remains a significant milestone, many
homeowners are outgrowing those
properties sooner than expected.
In fact, our research shows nearly
two-thirds of recent buyers expect to
outgrow within just three years. Yet,
moving on oen feels out of reach.
The gap between a typical firsttime buyer property and a second-
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MARTESE CARTON
is director of mortgage
distribution at Leeds
Building Society
stepper home now stands at around
52%, creating a steep and oen
unmanageable jump.
For many households, the need to
move isn’t driven by aspiration – it’s
practical. Our research shows that
60% need more bedrooms, 49% want
more space, 46% need beer storage,
45% are planning for children, and
30% want outdoor space.
Rethinking affordability
At Leeds, we believe responsible
lending should evolve alongside the
realities facing homeowners today.
That’s why we’ve expanded our
Income Plus mortgage range to
provide greater flexibility for those
looking to take that next step.
This is about applying flexibility
where it’s appropriate and sustainable
for borrowers.
We know that many families want
to avoid multiple short-term moves.
They’re looking for a home they can
grow into and that supports their
future plans, whether that’s raising
children, creating more space, or
caring for aging relatives.
By expanding Income Plus, we’re
giving brokers and customers more
options to make longer-term decisions
with confidence.
Keep the market moving
There’s been a strong and welcome
focus on supporting first-time buyers.
But we also need to ensure the rest
of the housing ladder continues to
function. If next steppers can’t move,
it creates a boleneck which impacts
the wider housing market.
Homeownership isn’t a single
moment. It’s a journey. We’re
commied to working with our
intermediary partners to support our
members every step of the way. ●
June 2026 | The Intermediary
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