RICS asksfor members' solutions to the changing market

Since the economic crisis began to bite, the UK housing market has changed dramatically.

Levels of home ownership have fallen and demands on social and affordable housing have increased. As the market comes under increasing pressure, many consumers are being left without adequate or affordable housing.

It is becoming clear that the future of the UK housing market will look significantly different to what we have now. 

RICS is responding to this challenge by asking its members to use their wealth of market experience to suggest what Government and the sector needs to do to create a workable housing market for consumers. 

Delivering a sustainable housing market with the right type of housing in the right place for all is in everyone's interest - the consumer, the sector and UK Plc.

This also reflects the principles of RICS' Royal Charter.

RICS will ask its members for their ideas on a number of issues including how to increase home ownership, improve the private rented sector, create new ways of building homes, improving consumer information in the home buying process and address the shortage of affordable housing. 

The feedback received from members will be used to create a Plan for Action which will be presented to the Government in early 2012.

 The consultation will include a series of regional workshops and members will also be able to contribute by writing to RICS.

David Dalby, RICS Residential Director, said:

"The financial crisis has served to highlight that the UK housing market is operating unsustainably. 

"A fresh approach is needed to meet this challenge and to deliver a housing market that operates in everyone's interest at every stage of the process. 

"RICS members are uniquely involved in every aspect of the UK residential market and are best placed to tell Government and the sector what needs to be done."