One out of six Hongkongers said they plan to buy a home in the next five years, while one-third of those prospective buyers are first-time purchasers, the South China Morning Post reported Friday, citing a survey by HSBC (HKG:0005).

Based on Hong Kong's population, the number of prospective buyers is seen to be at 300,000, the report said, citing HSBC.

The bank also estimates a shortfall in new homes over the next decade, with the government aiming to supply 132,000 private units and 123,000 public units during the period, the report said.

Two of three home buyers already have property, with most aiming to buy property for investment. First-time purchasers, who comprise the other third, are driven by investment plans, the report said.

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