A fifth of UK households are home to children sharing bedrooms, new research shows.
For one in 10 homes this is due to a lack of space, as the average square foot of a home has decreased dramatically over the last 90 years from 1,647 square feet to 925 square feet.
Over half (58 per cent) of all adults wish their children had bigger rooms in which to study and play, and a further two thirds (63 per cent) would like to move in to a bigger house, the Post Office Mortgage Step-up report shows.
Unfortunately, aspiring movers can expect to wait an average of four years before they will be able to upsize, while nearly a third (30 per cent) doubt they will ever be able to move up the ladder due finances or other commitments.
In some households the kids rule the roost, with almost a third (31 per cent) of adults willing to take a smaller room.
It’s no surprise people worry about the impact of a lack of space on their children, Post Office head of mortgages John Willcock says.
“Unfortunately, the reality of the situation means a lot of families feel like they’re letting their children down by not being able to provide them with their own room, or playroom where they can study or play.
“As a result a number of parents are making sacrifices and giving up larger rooms in the home to children.”
But he warns those looking at upsizing to think carefully about what they can afford.
“While not having enough space might be frustrating, it’s far better than over-stretching yourself financially.”
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