Over the last 20 years, there has been a substantial increase in the proportion of single homebuyers. Single buyers accounted for more than four in ten buyers last year, which compared to only a quarter in 1983. The largest increase has been among single women buying their own home. The dramatic shift towards homeowners buying their own home is set to continue over the next 20 years, according to a spokesman for the Halifax. Only 7% of single women bought their own home in 1983, whilst in 2001 this figure had increased to 17%. Sisters appear to be doing it for themselves in the 21st century!