Generation wanting to downsize are trapped.

January 13, 2016

Recent reports indicate that around one third of home owners in the 55+ age category are considering downsizing but have very little choice and feel unable to do so, there is a chronic under-supply of properties out there suitable to their needs.

Research shows that nearly half of all people who classify as under-occupiers in the UK are aged over 55,  at current market trends it would take 20 years for housing supply to meet the demand of just half of people aged 60+ interested in downsizing, more support is required for older people wanting to downsize is called for by retirement housebuilder McCarthy & Stone.

The CEO of McCarthy & Stone, Clive Fenton reportedly said: “Housing and planning policy should not just be about Starter Homes – millions of older people want to downsize to more suitable housing but there is currently little incentive or choice for them to move. As a result, housing chains are blocked at the top of the ladder,

“Billions of pounds of housing for families and younger people could be freed up via policies that encourage a wider range of housing options and also incentives to move, such as a stamp duty exemption for those moving to a smaller property. This is an area which demands greater policy focus by government in 2016.”

Allen Walkey

Highly experienced businessman with a successful career in property sales and investment both in the UK and abroad. Now a freelance writer and blogger for the property and Investment Industry, keeping readers up-to-date with changes and events in a rapidly changing world.

You May Also Enjoy

Breaking News

Guy Fawkes Night set to fizzle out for UK households

Firework Night set to fizzle out as 97% of UK households won’t buy fireworks and 7 in 10 want to see them banned As many as 97% of UK households won’t be buying fireworks to set off at home this Bonfire Night, while more than seven in 10 believe private fireworks displays in residential gardens…
Read More →
Breaking News

Budget tax raid could hit landlords for £3,500 a year

Budget tax raid could cost landlords almost £3,500 a year as property income tax rises Landlords could face almost £500 in additional annual tax per property, rising to nearly £3,500 across an average portfolio, following the Autumn Budget decision to double the previously planned increase in property income tax rates from April 2027. New analysis…
Read More →
Estate Agent Talk

Upfront information: homebuyers want confidence as much as speed

What movers want from upfront information, and it isn’t only speed Having a survey, legal pack and chain details before making an offer would help more than eight in ten respondents, according to LRG’s latest sales report Of the 553 who answered the question, 41% said they would offer with more confidence, although not necessarily…
Read More →
Estate Agents should not all look the same
Estate Agent Talk

How Financial Anxiety Drains Entrepreneurial Energy

Financial anxiety can consume the attention and stamina that business owners need for planning, problem-solving and leading a team. A late payment, an unexpected tax bill or a weak sales month may trigger worry long after working hours have ended. Over time, that mental strain affects sleep, concentration and confidence. The answer starts with creating…
Read More →
Letting Agent Talk

How to future-proof a rental property for changing tenant expectations

Over the past decade or so, tenants have become far more discerning. For more and more people, renting is a long-term prospect and today’s tenants expect their homes to be as safe and comfortable as any home they would own themselves. And as legislation around standards and health and safety in the private rented sector…
Read More →
Breaking News

More than a third of homes undergo price reduction

The latest research from GetAgent.co.uk has revealed that more than a third (34.4%) of homes sold subject to contract (SSTC) across Britain’s major cities have undergone an asking price reduction, with this figure climbing to more than half in Bournemouth, raising questions over whether sellers, and their agents, are pricing their properties realistically when first…
Read More →