Episode 8 - How Our Government Could Do Better To Help The Housing Market: Part One 

Unlock the secrets to a balanced housing market in this episode of The Property Podcast with Wards!

Join Garry Wilson and his esteemed guests as they delve into the pressing issues affecting the UK housing sector. From political will and funding challenges to innovative solutions for first-time buyers, this episode is packed with expert insights. Discover what a 25-year cross-party property manifesto could look like and explore imaginative strategies to make homeownership attainable.

• Cross-Party Agreement: A call for a strategic plan spanning at least 25 years to ensure continuity beyond political cycles.
• Non-political Approach: Emphasising the importance of removing politics from long-term housing solutions.

• Funding Challenges: Exploring funding sources and mechanisms to support balanced and accessible housing markets.
• Developer Uncertainty: Addressing developers' hesitance due to unpredictable government policies.

• Affordability Crisis: Discussing barriers young people face entering the property ladder today compared to previous decades.
• Innovative Solutions Needed:
  • Government-backed deposit schemes similar to France’s bond system.
  • Expanding current home-buy programs beyond new builds.

• Simplification needed across all levels; potential abolition or reduction for downsizers or specific age groups like over-sixties/seventies.

• Introducing vacancy taxes on empty properties could incentivize repurposing them into affordable homes.

• Encouraging brave thinking within the industry itself rather than relying solely on governmental action.

Energy Efficiency Integration: Link energy efficiency improvements directly with incentives such as reduced stamp duty rates or council tax discounts.

Zoning Laws & Red Tape Reduction: Advocate for relaxed zoning laws and reduced bureaucratic hurdles that inhibit development projects.

A collaboration between government initiatives and private sector innovation is a crucial driver in creating a sustainable future for UK housing. Tune in next week for Part 2 where we continue this compelling discussion!

For more insights into selling your property effectively within Kent’s dynamic market,

visit wardsofkent.co.uk for free online valuations or book an appraisal today!

To listen to other episodes in the series, please head over to www.im-listening.co.uk 

or wherever you listen to your podcasts