Tackling Housing Market Volatility in the UK

Stephens, M. (2011) Tackling Housing Market Volatility in the UK. Project Report. Joseph Rowntree Foundation, York, UK.

Abstract

<p>The housing market has experienced persistent 'boom and bust' cycles for the past 40 years. These cycles distort housing choices and increase risk. They drive mortgage arrears and repossession rates, curtail housebuilding capacity and increase intergenerational inequality. Yet policy-makers have done little to tackle the problem.</p> <p>This report contains the conclusions of the Joseph Rowntree Foundation's Housing Market Taskforce. It argues that urgent action is needed now before another boom and bust cycle takes hold.</p> <p>The report examines: <BR/> * how improving housing supply can limit volatility in the long run;<BR/> * how using credit controls and reforming taxation could limit volatility in the short run;<BR/> * how promoting financial capability among borrowers and responsible lending could be combined with an improved safety net to limit mortgage arrears and repossessions;<BR/> * the possibilities for developing alternatives to home-ownership.</p>

• Item Type: Research Reports or Papers (Project Report)
• Keywords: Housing market, volatility, affordability
• Status: Published
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Stephens, Professor Mark
• Authors: Stephens, M.
• Subjects: H Social Sciences > H Social Sciences (General)
• College/School: College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences > Urban Studies
• Publisher: Joseph Rowntree Foundation