Money Can’t Buy Love (But It CAN Get You A Date)

Money may not buy you love, but being wise with it can definitely get you a date, according to a new study which found that as financial instability takes hold, one in five single Brits see good ‘financial awareness’  as among the most attractive qualities in a potential partner.

In fact, for women, financial awareness is the third most attractive characteristic after personality and cleverness, and rates more highly than good job prospects and looks.

And while men also value personality and looks, financial awareness is enticing for one in 10, more so than being well off or owning a home.

Jacqueline Dewey, managing director at credit report and score provider Noddle.co.uk, said: “As we become more financially aware and savvy in terms of what’s coming in and out of our bank accounts it makes sense that we would look for these characteristics in a partner. Money can be a source of stress and disagreements in relationships, so it’s a good idea to find someone with a similar outlook.

“With financial as well as physical attraction key to modern dating, checking your credit report can help get you in great shape. It gives you a snapshot of all your financial obligations such as debts and outstanding credit to help you keep on top of your commitments and show that you’re a good catch.”

This comes as many singletons continue to experience financial instability 10 years on from the 2008 financial crash, with half worrying more about money and living more frugally, and 58 per cent also concerned about rising living costs.

With the majority of singles now keeping a closer eye on their bank balances, preferring to save rather than spend and others becoming more credit score aware, it’s no surprise that a third of the 4,008 Brits quizzed  in July,  value these financially literate qualities in a potential partner now more than ever.

When it comes to finding love online, boasting about money is the biggest turn off for both male and female online daters. In fact 23 per cent of men said this would turn them off, while 22 per cent of women said the same.

This is followed by group photos that make it hard to see what the person looks like, using clichés in biographies and showing off material possessions. So, that just goes to show  there is no need to splash the cash to win over your perfect match.

Top tips for improving your financial awareness:

Start learning: When it comes to improving your financial awareness there’s nothing better than learning more about finance. Newspapers and magazines geared towards money matters and the financial sections of local newspapers are great resources to do this. You can also find some helpful information online – why not have a look at The Young Money Blog ?

Take control: It’s important to know the ins and outs of all your expenses, so try making a list of everything you spend each month. After everything has been added up, ask yourself this question: How do I pay for all of this? Only by answering this basic question can you really start to grasp your finances and develop better financial management.

Set up a budget: One way to keep track of your finances is through a budget. The beauty is that it takes little effort and it’s a great way to get a quick snapshot of the money you have coming in and going out. You’ll also be able to spot opportunities to make savings.

Check your credit report: Keeping a close eye on your credit report helps you keep track of your finances. Noodle recommend that you check it once a month to get a snapshot of all your outstanding credit, such as mobile phone and energy bills, credit cards, loans and mortgages. That way you can see how much you owe and spot if anything’s not quite right. You can check your credit report free at www.noddle.co.uk.

Seek financial guidance: If you’re someone who’s daunted by financial jargon, but still want to improve your awareness around money then don’t worry. There are organisations out there that can help. You can get free impartial money help and guidance at the government-backed Money Advice Service.