Top 30 qualities singletons are looking for in a partner revealed – from animal lovers to being a good driver

THE attributes top of the list for Britain’s daters are emotional intelligence, financial stability and getting on with your friends.

A poll of 2,000 adults who are dating found they’d like to see someone who can stimulate them intellectually (19 per cent) and has a good sense of style (15 per cent).

SWNS

Almost eight in 10 (79 per cent) want a potential partner to have qualities they don’t have themselves, in a bid to make the relationship more fulfilled.

The research was commissioned by luxury dating site Seeking.com, looking at the emergence of a new dating trend it is calling ‘modern hypergamy’.

Emma Hathorn, a spokesperson for the luxury dating site, said: “Traditional hypergamy was all about marrying up for financial or social gain.

“Modern hypergamy, however, is about much more. It reflects a shift towards valuing growth and shared benefits in relationships.”

The study found 73 per cent of respondents believe a ‘modern hypergamic approach’ to dating can contribute to personal growth and discovery.

As over half (57 per cent) have intentionally sought out a partner who possesses traits or values that complement their own.

And when a potential partner doesn’t tick all the boxes, 43 per cent are now more open minded compared to 23 per cent who are disappointed.

While 55 per cent have been left surprised by dating someone who wasn’t their usual ‘type’.

When it comes to the common attributes daters believe they bring to the table, being a good cook (36 per cent) tops the list.

One in three are ‘active listeners’ and want to know about their partner’s day, while 19 per cent think they’ve got a strong sense of style.

With previous partners, 31 per cent of respondents clashed always or often, with different communication styles the most common reason.

While 29 per cent had conflicting values and beliefs, 23 per cent had different attitudes towards financial management or spending and 20 per cent had differing aspirations for lifestyle or social status.

Of those who have had a change in heart of what they’re looking for, 43 per cent believe they simply know themselves better now.

For 31 per cent, they opened themselves up to new possibilities and found happiness by simply going along for the ride.

While 27 per cent were introduced to new things, and had their lives enriched in ways they ‘didn’t think were possible’.

But 36 per cent of those who took part in the study by OnePoll.com think it’s very difficult to find someone who is a truly perfect match, with interests and values that perfectly complement their own.

Emma Hathorn, for Seeking.com, added: “Being with someone who inspires you to grow and evolve can turn a good relationship into a great one.

“Choosing a partner who complements and enhances your attributes can lead to a deeply enriching and meaningful connection.

“A great relationship is one where both people are constantly learning and growing together.

“Whether it’s discovering new hobbies, exploring different cultures, or achieving personal milestones, having a partner who brings diverse strengths and insights can be incredibly rewarding.