Thoughts from the Property Industry – National Housing Bank
Thoughts from the Property Industry on the creation of a new National Housing Bank to provide finance to developers of many sizes, to build homes.
Nathan Emerson, CEO of Propertymark:
“On the face of things, the news of the introduction of the National Housing Bank is much welcome and will inject a desperately needed boost into both the general housing stock and incentivise investment within the private rented sector. We look forward, however, to receiving the finer details of how and who can access this funding.
“For years now, undersupply has caused affordability issues across both the sales and rental market especially within the private rented sector, which has been crippled with rapidly growing demand and a slowing in investment. Therefore, we hope that this injection unlocks enough support for homebuilders and private investors to meet demand well into the future.
“We would urge the UK Government to ensure its finger remains on the pulse, that support is given to all tenures and that it looks to fully bridge the shortfall in order to tackle this issue with longevity in mind. As well as this, a review of Stamp Duty thresholds and taxes imposed on landlords is also needed to address some of the barriers affecting affordability and investment.”
Brian Berry, Chief Executive of the FMB:
“We know from our own data that a lack of finance is often cited as one of the top five issues holding back SME development, and that banks have historically been risk averse when it comes to lending to house builders. A new clear pathway like the National Housing Bank will give developers confidence to borrow. This is a bold change and sorely needed if the Government is to deliver its 1.5 million housing target. While details are still to be tied down it will be important that the new bank is able provide suitable finance options for smaller and micro house builders to help local economies thrive.”
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