You might have a vision of your first home, but where to buy is a massive decision. Hampshire is a brilliant place to live, but with a huge choice of quaint villages, bustling market towns, and major cities to choose from, where do you start?
Hampshire offers a variety of great locations for first-time buyers, including cities like Portsmouth and Southampton, coastal towns like Southsea, and historic Winchester. With affordable housing options, strong transport links, and access to the countryside, it’s ideal for those starting on the property ladder.
To help you figure out where might be best for you, we’ve put together a guide covering some of the top spots for first-time buyers in Hampshire, along with key things to consider before making that all-important decision.
For personalised advice from a friendly and professional mortgage broker, GET STARTED with The Mortgage Pod today.
Best places to live in Hampshire for first-time buyers
Hampshire is ideal for first-time buyers thanks to its wide variety of properties, great transport links, and a perfect blend of cities, coastal towns and stunning countryside. So, let’s have a look at the best towns and cities the county has to offer first-time buyers.
Portsmouth
Full disclosure – We are a mortgage broker in Portsmouth, so we may be a little biased ☺️.
If you’re after city living with plenty of energy, Portsmouth could be a great option. It’s known for its maritime history and iconic attractions like the Spinnaker Tower and Gunwharf Quays, but it also has loads of independent shops, bars, and restaurants. The city also holds numerous events, like the annual Victorious Music Festival.
Portsmouth has a good mix of property options for first-time buyers, including affordable flats and terraced houses. Plus, being right on the coast, it’s perfect if you love the sea or want easy access to the Isle of Wight. Portsmouth also has strong transport links with the M27 close by and regular direct trains to London, making it a convenient spot for commuters.
Outside of the city centre, neighbourhoods to consider include:
- Fratton – Most affordable with terraced houses, great for first-time buyers on a budget.
- Copnor – A great mix of property types with affordable family homes and access to good schools.
- North End – Affordable and close to local services, offering a community feel.
Southampton
Southampton is also great for first-time buyers. It’s well-known for its diverse high street and shopping centres, historic attractions, and lively nightlife. If you’re looking for a place that balances work and play, Southampton is a solid choice.
It’s got a good mix of affordable and mid-range properties, including flats and family homes. And for those who love a bit of fresh air, the nearby New Forest and South Downs National Park provide plenty of opportunities for weekend escapes.
Outside of the city centre, top neighbourhoods to consider include:
- Shirley – Affordable with plenty of semi-detached houses, ideal for those looking to get on the ladder.
- Portswood – Popular for its convenience, close to the university and local amenities.
- Bitterne – A variety of houses and flats with great access to green spaces and transport links.
Southsea
For a coastal resort with a more relaxed pace, Southsea might be the perfect place. It has an artsy, laid-back vibe with its quirky shops, cool bars, foodie hot spots and open green spaces like Southsea Common.
The property market here includes a mix of period homes and more modern developments, offering something for a range of budgets. While house prices in Southsea can be a little higher compared to Portsmouth, many first-time buyers are drawn to the lifestyle balance between seaside living and city convenience.
Winchester
Winchester is a favourite for those looking for a quieter, more historic feel. As a cathedral city, it has loads of character with its medieval architecture and cobbled streets. Though it’s on the pricier side, Winchester offers excellent transport links to London, making it popular with commuters.
First-time buyers might find that properties here are a bit more expensive, but the mix of charm, top-rated schools, and a luxe mix of shops and restaurants make Winchester a desirable place to live.
Basingstoke
For those looking for value without compromising on amenities, Basingstoke is a strong option. It’s a growing town that has seen plenty of development in recent years, with a variety of homes available at more affordable prices compared to other major towns.
Basingstoke also benefits from great transport links, particularly for those commuting into London. It’s an up-and-coming area with lots of potential, offering the convenience of a large town with access to green spaces and local amenities.
Other top spots for first-time buyers in Hampshire
The market town of Fareham is an affordable alternative to Portsmouth and Southampton and is equidistant from each city, making it easy to commute.
If you prefer a village green vibe, you’re spoiled for choice in Hampshire. Bishop’s Waltham is a quintessential village with a mix of traditional and more affordable newly built properties.
For stunning views and access to Hampshire’s glorious countryside, consider Petersfield or Midhurst, both located close to the South Downs National Park.
Eastleigh is a perfect stepping stone for first-time buyers. It is an affordable area with great transport links to Southampton, Winchester, and London.
What to consider when choosing a place to buy in Hampshire
Transport links
How you’ll get around is a big part of choosing where to live. Most of Hampshire is well-connected, with train services to London from cities like Winchester and Basingstoke and easy access to the M3 and M27 motorways. If commuting is part of your life, make sure you factor in journey times and how close you’ll be to transport hubs.
Property market
Hampshire’s property market varies significantly. Cities like Winchester come with higher price tags, while areas like Portsmouth and Basingstoke offer more affordable options for first-time buyers. It’s important to set a realistic budget and research house prices in the areas you’re interested in to ensure you can afford to live there.
Things to see and do
Hampshire offers a great mix of urban and rural living, so whether you’re into shopping, outdoor activities, or cultural attractions, you’ll find plenty to do. For example, Portsmouth has its lively high street and historic attractions, Winchester has an enviable food scene, and Southampton’s West Quay is a mecca for shopping.
Outside of the major towns and cities, more remote spots like The New Forest are stunning, but it’s a long walk to the nearest Costa! When considering where to buy, think about what you value in your day-to-day life and how the area can support that.
Neighbourhoods
From the leafy surrounds of suburbs like Cosham and Chandler’s Ford to the urban appeal of towns like Shirley and Fratton, each town and city has its own unique neighbourhoods. Some are more suited to families, while others cater more to professionals or young couples. Spend some time walking around different areas to get a feel for the local atmosphere, and consider amenities like parks and leisure centres.
Schools and education
We know it might seem a way off for many first-time buyers! But if you’re planning for the future or already have children, Hampshire is a desirable prospect when it comes to schools. The county is home to several fantastic schools, both state and private, making it a great choice for families. Winchester, for example, has some top-rated schools.
Looking for a mortgage broker in Hampshire? Get in touch with The Mortgage Pod
Finding the right place to settle down is an exciting part of the first-time buyer journey. Once you’ve picked the perfect spot, securing the best mortgage deal is the next step. At The Mortgage Pod, we specialise in helping first-time buyers find the right mortgage for their needs.
If you’re thinking about buying a home in Hampshire, GET STARTED with us today, and let us help you take the next step toward owning your first home.
