The move onto the property ladder is becoming tougher

However, the Bank of Scotland's inaugural first time buyer review does show that Scotland still has some of the most affordable housing in the UK.

The study found that hopeful buyers should go to Grangemouth or Irvine, but forget about Stirling or Helensburgh.

In the rest of the UK 80% of towns are beyond the first time buyer's reach.

TOP FIVE AFFORDABLE TOWNS 1: Grangemouth 2: Lochgelly 3: Bellshill 4: Irvine 5: Coatbridge Source: Bank of Scotland annual first time buyer review

The typical first time house buyer in Scotland is 36 and puts down a deposit of just over �11,000 for a house, worth just over �70,000.

But the bank warns that significant hikes in house prices are making it tougher for buyers starting out.

Shane O'Riordain, general manager of group economics, said: "Affordability is clearly becoming an issue for first time buyers in Scotland - and one that shows no signs of abating in the very near future.

"Significant house price appreciation is making it more difficult for Scots to get on to the first rung of the housing ladder."

BOTTOM FIVE AFFORDABLE TOWNS 1: Edinburgh 2: Helensburgh 3: Stirling 4: Cupar 5: Stonehaven Source: Bank of Scotland annual first time buyer review

Flats and maisonettes remained the most popular choice, with more than 60% choosing them for their first home.

Terraced housing was the second choice, with bungalows being the least popular first property.

The study also found the number of single females buying their first home in Scotland increased from 28% in 2002 to 30% in 2003, pointing to the growing economic and financial independence of younger females.