It has always been difficult for first-time buyers to get on the property ladder and it seems the situation is not set to improve, it has been revealed.

Property specialist Malcolm Harrison said the housing boom made it difficult for people to afford properties, whereas they now find it hard to access the finance.

"It’s always difficult getting on the property ladder and it has been ever since the war – everybody’s first purchase is a pretty major step forward," he suggested.

People are finding it no more or less difficult to get on the property ladder than older generations did, Mr Harrison revealed.

The latest Nationwide property price index showed the average house price increased by 0.9 per cent in June compared to a rise of 1.2 per cent in May.

It marks the third house price increase in four months, the index found, with the average UK property now costing £156,442.

Prices have fallen by 9.3 per cent over the last 12 months and 0.9 per cent on the previous month.