We all know that there are huge macro economic issues still facing the UK and until those have ridden through any tinkering with micro issues will not have much effect on the outcome.
If nothing else, the current recession has taught us that the UK hosing market is not top of any countries agenda.
We all feel that our issues should be higher up the Governments agenda and prior to both the election and the emergency budget our press was full of what the changes should be that would help stimulate the market.
As historically our tennis players have flattered to deceive so the outcomes of the mortgage market do likewise.
It has recently been reported that neither the Prime Minister nor the Chancellor have made official contact with the Housing Minister since the general election.
So after 10 weeks after the coalition was formed no interest has been taken in the housing market.
It is like sending Wayne Rooney to train with the youth team.
It is true that Estate Agents are reporting greater supply than demand at present.
We all assume that this is due to HIP’s being abolished and I am sure this is partly true.
What would be interesting to know is what are the people selling looking to do?
Are we seeing more people than normal selling to go into rental or down size to help with the bills?
It is normally assumed that the majority of people sell to up size but is this still as prevalent now?
It is also true that a strong housing market is key to wider economic prosperity within the UK but at the moment it is under achieving just like the England football team.
How do we work to get our industry further up the political agenda and when we do what do we want to happen?
It is at this point that we need to have more radical thoughts.
Asking for another stamp duty holiday is not going to work.
This would be a loss of income for the Treasury and at this current moment that will not wash.
Stamp Duty is out dated and needs to be revamped but we need to create something that is appropriate to both the market we are currently working in but also offer greater income to the Government.
How do we get the new build market moving again?
Builders are starting to finish developments and start up new ones.
Are there any incentives available through Government channels that could help move stock at a realistic price?
Whilst we must realise where our industry currently sits in the pecking order it should not mean that we do nothing until its our turn at the front of the queue.
