Who can realistically afford to buy as a first time buyer in London?

[rafrafraf]

Realistically, as a first time buyer, who can afford to buy in London?

By London I don't mean Greater London, I mean actual London. Say 20-30 mins on the tube into somewhere central or Zones 1-2 and inner 3.

What careers do they have? Is it feasible for someone working in finance or the city? Or are the first time buyers in this area older (35+) or do they have family wealth to buy

"i love how the cheapest, shittiest areas of 'london' are suggested as a perfectly reasonable place for a high-flying grad to want to live"

I there and have done since I was a trainee solicitor (ie a 'high flying graduate').

We started in a flat and are now in a period house and it's a peach. Huge garden. Loft converted. One day soon I hope it will have a huge kitchen with bifold doors.

So do an increasing number of professionals who have been priced out of nicer areas but see Ilford / Croydon / Streatham as a good investment with a good commute and a great alternative to renting in zone 1/2.

It's proven to be a very savvy financial decision to live here.

I have friends (couples) who have paid (I'm guessing) close to 120k in rent over the years in the time we've lived here, but of course they've lived somewhere very desirable.

No one is right or wrong it's just food for thought.

Where there's a will there's a way but as demonstrated above some people just can't or won't see that.

(I'm not uneducated either OP. Very rude of you)