The HomeOwners Alliance report highlights the deepening housing crisis in the UK, a trend developing over the past decade. Key areas contributing to this crisis include the leasehold system, stamp duty, and the complexities of the home-buying and selling process. While many issues from 2015 remain, new challenges have emerged, painting a bleak picture for potential homeowners and investors.

The report reveals a significant increase in concerns regarding the leasehold system, with 64% of UK adults now seeing it as a serious issue, up from 42% in 2015. Similarly, concerns about stamp duty have risen, with 64% viewing it as a significant hurdle, compared to 51%. Buying and selling homes has become increasingly troubling, with 60% recognising it as a substantial problem.

Long-standing issues such as high house prices and the difficulty of saving for a deposit continue to dominate the list of concerns. A substantial 81% of respondents are worried about home accessibility and prices. This scenario has dampened non-homeowners ‘ desire to own property at just 64%, marking the lowest level in over a decade.

Regional Differences

There are notable regional disparities, with Wales and Scotland facing unique challenges. In Wales, negative equity and stamp duty concerns are much higher than the UK average. Scotland encounters greater difficulties with housing availability.

These findings underscore the market’s challenges for property investors, including high entry barriers, regulatory complexities, and regional variations. The perception among a significant number of aspiring homeowners that this period is unfavourable for purchasing suggests a persistent struggle between market conditions and consumer hopes.

Understanding regional differences and the broader market context is crucial for investors making informed decisions in the UK’s property landscape. Contact US today for a free consultation.