Women are an increasingly powerful force in China's housing market as they become more financially capable and independent, according to a recent report.

More Chinese women are buying homes, breaking the age-old stereotype that home buying is the man's job once couples get married and start a family.

The report is based on a survey conducted by 58.com, China's Craigslist-like classified site, and Anjuke, an online real estate listing platform. Those surveyed were women ranging from 21 to 45 in first-tier cities like Beijing and Shanghai as well as other emerging metropolises. Over 85% of the respondents had a Bachelor's or higher degree.

The survey found that over 80% of the female respondents, both single and married, planned to buy a property within the next five years, while 14% said that they were set to become a homeowner this year. 

Among those women, 30.9% said that they are buying properties because they want to have a permanent place to live in, while 28.2% responded that securing a house in a favorable school district is a means of providing their children with a good education. 

More than ever, women are becoming the decision-makers behind property purchases. Around 82.3% of the respondents in this year's survey said they have the final say in matters relating to buying a house, compared to 65.2% in 2018, demonstrating women's growing status at home.

Owning a home is like wearing a pair of high-heels, said Chen Jingsi, an editor working and living in Beijing, "It gives me confidence and makes me feel more secure."

In terms of funding, nearly 20% of the respondents plan to pay for the house themselves, around half will fund the purchase via installments with their partners, and 30% will rely on financial support from their parents.

Interestingly, women with pets demonstrate a higher desire to buy a home than those without, the report says.