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Merryn Talks Money

How to Buy a House in the UK Right Now

Apr 2, 2025
In this insightful discussion, Professor Yolande Barnes, a leading real estate expert from University College London, explores the current climate of the UK housing market. She shares her predictions on home prices and unveils effective strategies for first-time buyers. The conversation highlights troubling oversupply risks and stark regional disparities, as London struggles while northern markets thrive. Barnes advocates for innovative housing solutions, challenging the traditional build strategy and calling for a rethinking of how homes are addressed in the UK.
22:41

Episode guests

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Current housing market stagnation indicates a need for first-time buyers to opt for long-term investment properties rather than temporary fixes.
  • Demographic shifts suggest a possible future oversupply of homes in the UK, complicating the landscape for new buyers amidst declining household formation.

Deep dives

Current Trends in the UK Housing Market

The UK housing market is experiencing a period of stagnation after years of rapid price increases, particularly since the late 20th century. Current observations suggest that the growth in house prices is flattening due to the end of low interest rates, which had previously inflated asset values significantly. Regional variations are evident, with some areas experiencing price drops while others, especially in the north, are catching up. The importance of distinguishing between genuine economic demand and aspirational demand is emphasized, indicating that not all interest in housing translates to effective market demand.

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