Timothy Douglas, Propertymark’s Head of Policy and Campaigns, comments on the ending of the power-sharing deal between the SNP and the Green Party in Scotland.

“This must be taken as an opportunity to reset and rethink key housing policy at a time when rents are rising, there is uncertainty for agents and their landlords, local authorities are declaring housing emergencies and there is not enough property for people to rent across Scotland.  

“Tax burdens on home buyers and those looking to purchase buy to let property must be reduced and any plans for minimum energy efficiency standards for homes must be realistic, achievable and provide funding incentives through grants and clear advice to help people improve their homes and property.  

“The Cost of Living legislation that introduced rent caps has damaged investment in Scotland, reduced available property to rent and caused rents to rise.

We urge the First Minister to take this opportunity to rethink future plans for rent control and introduce measures that increase the supply of homes across Scotland that will ultimately make renting and buying a home more affordable.”