Sun, 22 Jun 2025

Sun, 22 Jun 2025 Young people face 'soul-destroying' struggle to buy first homes

One would-be buyer says a mortgage broker advised her to ask for a pay rise or find a partner.
The Ministry of Housing claims it's providing support for first-time buyers but critics argue that a "devastating housing crisis" inherited from previous governments means little has changed. Average house prices vary across East England, with some areas seeing significant price increases. The average annual rent is around £15,660. Environmentalists and local business leaders say the issue is not just about building more homes, but also about how they are used - with too many being bought as second homes or let out short-term. A long-term infrastructure plan to support new housing is needed, according to regional business champion James Palmer. The government's plan for 1.5 million new homes by 2029 is seen as a positive step, but some question whether it will make a significant difference given the scale of the problem.
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