Top things Brits look for in a partner - including financial responsibility

21 June 2023 , 11:41

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A quarter of Brits say a bad credit score is a turn-off when dating (Image: Getty Images)

Two-thirds of Brits (65%) believe good financial health is just as important as sexual compatibility when it comes to finding a potential partner, a study has found.

Those looking for love are more likely to be attracted to someone who is good with money, than someone with good looks or who wants to get married or start a family.

And the poll of 2,000 adults found 68% feel online dating would be a lot easier if people were honest about their financial health.

When it comes to the traits Brits look for in a possible match, a good sense of humour still tops the list – followed by shared interests, and a basis of friendship.

However, nearly half (44%) said it would be a deal-breaker if their partner was always in their overdraft – and 45% would consider calling time on a relationship if their other half would rather go out, than prioritise their economic stability.

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Love-seekers even think a partner who is fiscally responsible is more attractive than someone who is in good shape (33%), or shares the same political beliefs (23%).

Top things Brits look for in a partner - including financial responsibility

Two-thirds feel financial compatibility is just as important as sexual compatibility when searching for a match (NatWest)

However, 57% said they would rather be with someone who is “their type on paper” – even if they are not as career-driven as they would like.

The research was commissioned by NatWest, which has teamed up with dating expert Charlene Douglas to launch the free “Know Your Credit Score” tool for everyone, as part of the bank’s pledge to help more people improve their financial wellness.

Charlene Douglas said: “Checking in on your financial wellness not only helps you feel like you’re in control, but brings with it a sense of pride and determination that radiates to those around you.

“By understanding your partner’s financial habits and priorities – and having regular, open conversations to align on those priorities – you can work together to achieve goals and reduce conflict in your romantic relationships.”

The study also revealed one in 20 (6%) would love for more singletons to include their credit score, and how much annual leave they get, on their online dating profiles.

And 36% want to see fewer people describe themselves as “crazy” or “mad” when they are swiping right or left – while three in ten are tired of inspirational quotes on profiles, and talk about star signs is a big turn-off for 29%.

It also emerged 45% actually feel more attractive themselves when they have their money in order – and 67% think this feeling can improve relationships overall.

Even outside of the relationship bubble, four in five feel more positive about life in general when they are on top of their money.

And when it comes to dating deal-breakers, more said it is a dumpable offence not showing ambition to buy a home (32%), compared to a willingness to travel (24%), the OnePoll.com data found.

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When in the dating stage, it takes as many as six romantic meetings, on average, before they are comfortable talking about their finances – but for a quarter, a bad credit score can put them off.

Phil Sheehy, head of short-term borrowing at NatWest, said: “Relationships can be built on an understanding of how to manage money – as ultimately, this has a big role when things get serious.

“But when starting out in any new relationship, it has never been more important couples have these shared values when it comes to their finances.

“That’s why we have created the Know Your Credit Score tool, which is a free service available to everyone, to help give personalised insights and tools to help them understand their finances and grow their financial compatibility.”

TOP 15 THINGS BRITS VALUE WHEN SEEKING A NEW PARTNER: