HBF: Latest Press Releases http://www.hbf.co.uk/ Latest press releases from the HBF website. en HBF: Latest Press Releases http://www.hbf.co.uk/typo3conf/ext/tt_news/ext_icon.gif http://www.hbf.co.uk/ 18 16 Latest press releases from the HBF website. TYPO3 - get.content.right http://blogs.law.harvard.edu/tech/rss Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:43:00 +0000 Crisis shows why housing must be top of the political agenda on the Isle of Wight http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-why-housing-must-be-top-of-the-political-agenda-on-the-isle-of-wight/ Like much of the country the Isle of Wight is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its...
  • In 2011/12 only 59% of the homes needed were built.  There were 370 housing starts, whilst 625 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 293% in the 10 years to 2012.  There are currently 6,328 families on the waiting list
  • It takes at least seven years for an average first-time buyer in the South East to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 95% in the 10 years from 2001 to 2011
  • At least 200 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments of around £5.4 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council and councillors need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, the Isle of Wight is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for facing the housing crisis on the island, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the area needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the region needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:43:00 +0000     Crisis shows why housing must be top of the political agenda in Doncaster http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-why-housing-must-be-top-of-the-political-agenda-in-doncaster/ Like much of the country Doncaster is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its Housing...
  • In 2011/12 only 51% of the homes needed were built.  There were 320 housing starts, whilst 625 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 76% in the 10 years to 2012.  There are currently 11,521 families on the waiting list.
  • It can take nearly five years an average first-time buyer in Yorkshire & the Humber to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 139% in the 10 years from 2001 to 2011.
  • Nearly 500 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments to Doncaster of around £5.4 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council or mayor and politicians need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, Doncaster is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for facing Doncaster’s housing crisis, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the city needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the city needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:57:00 +0000     Crisis shows why housing must be top of the political agenda in North Tyneside http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-why-housing-must-be-top-of-the-political-agenda-in-north-tyneside/ Like much of the country North Tyneside is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its...
  • In 2011/12 46% of the homes needed were built.  There were 410 housing starts, whilst 875 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 65% in the 10 years to 2012.  There are currently 4,727 families on the waiting list
  • It takes at least four and half years for an average first-time buyer in the North East to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 128% in the 10 years from 2001 to 2011
  • At least 700 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments of around £7.5 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council or mayor and politicians need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, North Tyneside is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for housing for facing the housing crisis in North Tyneside, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the city needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the city needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto that calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:51:00 +0000     http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/-3b8c45ab57/ Like much of the country Cornwall is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its Housing...
  • In 2011/12 only 71% of the homes needed were built.  There were 1,680 housing starts, whilst 2,375 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 150% in the 10 years to 2012, there are currently 24,329 families on the waiting list
  • It can take more than six and half years for an average first time buyer to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Affordability is very low. The average lower quartile house cost is 9x average lower quartile earnings. This ratio of house prices to earnings, 9.0, compares unfavourably with the national average of 6.53.
  • At least 1,000 extra local jobs could have been created in 2011/12, had enough homes been built to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments of around £20.5 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council and councillors need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, Cornwall is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for facing Cornwall’s housing crisis, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the area needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the region needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:49:00 +0000     Crisis shows housing must be top of political agenda in Wiltshire http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-housing-must-be-top-of-political-agenda-in-wiltshire/ Like much of the country Wiltshire is experiencing an acute housing crisis. HBF today calls on all...
  • In 2011/12 only 82% of the homes needed were built.  There were 1,340 housing starts, whilst there were 1,625 new households created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 115% in the 10 years to 2012; there are now 17,108 families on the waiting list
  • It can take more than six and a half years for an average first time buyer to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 115% in the 10 years to 2012
  • At least 500 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments to Wiltshire of around £14 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council and councillors need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, Wiltshire is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for facing Wiltshire’s housing crisis, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes which are vital to the areas social and economic well being. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the region needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    •  Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    •  Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:46:00 +0000     Crisis shows why housing must be top of political agenda in Bristol http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-why-housing-must-be-top-of-political-agenda-in-bristol/ Like much of the country Bristol is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its Housing...
  • In 2011/12 only 58% of the homes needed were built.  There were 1,160 housing starts, whilst 2,000 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 28% in the 10 years to 2012.  There are currently 14,585 families on the waiting list
  • It can take more than six and half years for an average first time buyer to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 89% in the 10 years from 2001 to 2011.
  • At least 1,600 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments to Bristol of around £17 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council and councillors need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, Bristol is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for facing Bristol’s housing crisis, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the area needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the city needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:38:00 +0000     Crisis shows why housing must be top of the political agenda in Durham http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-why-housing-must-be-top-of-the-political-agenda-in-durham/ Like much of the country Durham is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its Housing...
  • In 2011/12 only 57% of the homes needed were built. There were 860 housing starts, whilst 1,500 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 48% in the 10 years to 2012.  There are currently 17,532 families on the waiting list
  • It takes at least four and half years for an average first-time buyer in the North East to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 93% in the 10 years from 2001 to 2011.
  • Nearly 1,000 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments of around £13 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council and councillors need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, Northumberland is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for housing provision in Northumberland, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the area needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the region needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:25:00 +0000     Crisis shows why housing must be top of the political agenda in Northumberland http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-why-housing-must-be-top-of-the-political-agenda-in-northumberland/ Like much of the country Northumberland is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its...
  • In 2011/12 only 63% of the homes needed were built.  There were 500 housing starts, whilst 800 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 93% in the 10 years to 2012.  There are currently 10,912 families on the waiting list
  • It will take the average first-time buyer in the North East four and half years to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 93% in the 10 years from 2001 to 2011
  • At least 400 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments of around £6.5 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council and councillors need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, Northumberland is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for facing Northumberland’s housing crisis, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the area needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the region needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for all council candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:12:00 +0000     Crisis shows why housing must be top of the political agenda in Shropshire http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/crisis-shows-why-housing-must-be-top-of-the-political-agenda-in-shropshire/ Like much of the country Shropshire is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Launching its Housing...
  • In 2011/12 only 61% of the homes needed were built.  There were 530 housing starts, whilst 875 new households were created
  • Social housing waiting lists increased by 70% in the 10 years to 2012.  There are currently 7,499 families on the waiting list
  • It takes at least five years for an average first-time buyer in the East Midlands to save the necessary funds for a deposit
  • Median house prices increased 99% in the 10 years from 2001 to 2011
  • At least 500 extra local jobs could have been created from building enough homes to meet demand
  • Building enough homes to meet household projections each year could mean annual New Homes Bonus payments of around £7.5 million.
    • Speaking today, as HBF launched its Housing Manifesto, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman at the HBF said; “Across the country, housing is one of the main reasons why constituents contact their local council and councillors need to be taking a proactive approach to housing issues in their areas. “Like many places, Shropshire is experiencing an acute housing crisis. Delivering the homes needed is vital to the area’s social and economic wellbeing. “Together, we all have responsibility for facing Shropshire’s housing crisis, but the role of local politicians is vital if we are to deliver the homes the area needs. “The council must work to create an environment within which more homes can be built. Doing so will deliver significant benefits, building the decent new homes the region needs will improve the lives of many, support strong communities and create desperately needed jobs and economic growth.” To ensure the homes get built that the area needs, HBF’s Housing Manifesto calls for candidates to;
    • Commit to ensuring that the number of new homes being built is at the level required by the area’s population
    • Work closely with the industry to develop a climate within which the industry can deliver the homes the area needs
    • Work with all parties, including  the Local Authority to identify and allocate sufficient suitable land for development to allow the homes that are needed to be built
    • Work with the industry to cut through the bureaucracy that can stall many developments or stops developments all together
    • Ensure the demands placed on house building sites are realistic and not so onerous that they prohibit development taking place
    For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF’s members account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 22 Apr 2013 11:00:00 +0000     Positive Budget for Housing http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/positive-budget-for-housing/ HBF today guardedly welcomes the ‘Help to Buy’ measures announced in the Chancellor’s Budget...
  • NewBuy Mortgage Guarantee Extension. The announcement of a scheme for the wider market is a welcome step that should result in increased home sales across the whole housing market. The scheme will need the support of a wide range of mortgage lenders, for new and second hand, if it is to have the desired impact on the overall market and help boost new homes building

  • Proposals for an extension of FirstBuy, the shared-equity scheme for new home buyers, are very welcome. This will open it up to a much wider audience and so should help drive up house building numbers. Removing the house builder’s equity contribution also frees up developers’ balance sheets such that they can invest in new land and home building activity.

  • Affordable housing. We welcome a commitment to funding for more affordable homes. It gives the suppliers of affordable homes some certainty.

  • Private rent. More money for Private rent is clearly welcome. The over subscription on the previously allocated £200M showed the appetite for investment in private rental delivery.
    • Speaking today, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of HBF said; “A lack of affordable mortgage availability remains the biggest constraint on housing supply, something Government now clearly understands and is looking to address. Extending NewBuy to the second hand market should create churn in the market place and drive up sales across the Board – including for new homes. We do though need to ensure a level playing field across the whole market.  Extending FirstBuy is very welcome and will provide a real option for people currently unable to buy – so providing a vital market for the new homes industry. Building the homes the country desperately needs can be a key driver of economic activity. Government must be praised for its attempts to stimulate activity, but must also be wary to get the details right.”    -       ENDS   - For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to editors
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    ]]>     Wed, 20 Mar 2013 14:03:00 +0000     Water and building sectors work more closely to address infrastructure development http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/water-and-building-sectors-work-more-closely-to-address-infrastructure-development/ The Home Builders Federation (HBF) and Water UK are pleased to announce that they have agreed to... For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors 1.     The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk 2.     Water UK represents all major UK water and wastewater service suppliers at national and European level. We provide a positive framework for the water industry to engage with government, regulators, stakeholder organisations and the public. www.water.org.uk ]]> Tue, 19 Mar 2013 13:37:00 +0000 House Builders to Challenge Local Authorities Over CIL £ Level http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/house-builders-to-challenge-local-authorities-over-cil-level/ Savills employed to represent industry and ensure Levy rates are realistic and don’t make house... Savills employed to represent industry and ensure Levy rates are realistic and don’t make house building unviable   The house building industry has taken a decisive step to ensure Local Authorities are abiding by their responsibilities with regard to the Community Infrastructure Levy. A ‘fighting fund’ has been established by HBF’s larger members to employ real estate expert Savills to undertake core work on CIL principles and then use this to represent house builders  throughout the process of establishing charging schedules. The move is a coordinated attempt by the industry to ensure Local Authorities are setting realistic CIL levels that don’t make development unviable – as is required under CIL legislation. The move is deemed necessary and follows the judgement in the Greater Norwich Development Area when, following representation by Savills and others from the industry, the Inspector recommended the Councils reduce the proposed residential rates by up to 35% as the rates were too high and could pose a ‘significant risk’ to the delivery of schemes. A similar decision was reached in Mid Devon where the Examiner recommended a cut in the residential rate of over half. It mirrors an announcement earlier this month that HBF has beefed up its planning department to ensure representation at all future local plan enquiries to ensure Local Authorities were meeting their responsibilities with regards to housing plans. Both operations will be managed by the HBF’s Plans Management Group comprising of senior representatives of its larger members as the industry responds to the Government’s new planning system and the increased powers it hands to Local Authorities. Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of the HBF said; “The new planning and regulatory systems hand significant powers to Local Authorities. We are keen to work constructively with them to ensure they are abiding by their new responsibilities. “The rate at which CIL is set will be a huge determinant on whether house building sites are viable or not. “We have an acute housing crisis in this country and it is imperative desperately needed housing supply is not strangled. “We want to work with Councils to set realistic charge levels that allow houses to be built – and vital infrastructure be delivered.” Melys Pritchett, Associate Director of Savills, who is leading the work on CIL said, “We have represented individual consortia of HBF members across the country on over 35 CILs to date.  Effective engagement from the industry needs to be coordinated and supported with a strong evidence base.  This commitment by the HBF and its members will allow us to positively and proactively engage with Local Authorities to assist them in ensuring their CIL rates do not prejudice the delivery of their development plans.” For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:
    1. The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk
    2. Savills plc is a global real estate services provider listed on the London Stock Exchange. Savills has an international network of more than 500 offices and associates across 45 countries throughout the Americas, the UK, Europe, Asia Pacific, Africa and the Middle East, offering a broad range of specialist advisory, management and transactional services to clients all over the world. www.savills.co.uk
    ]]>     Mon, 18 Mar 2013 12:29:00 +0000     Planning Permissions and Buyer Reservations Up As House Building Constraints Begin To Ease – But Threats Remain http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/planning-permissions-and-buyer-reservations-up-as-house-building-constraints-begin-to-ease-but-threats-remain/ NEW Housing Pipeline report - ‘permissions granted highest level for 5 years’Improved mortgage...
  • NEW Housing Pipeline report - ‘permissions granted highest level for 5 years’
  • Improved mortgage rates see NewBuy reservations double since New Year
    • HBF’s latest Housing Pipeline report, released today, reveals that local authorities granted approvals for 45,041 new homes across England in Q4 of last year, up 62% year on year and 33% up on the previous quarter. It is the highest quarterly number granted since Q1 2008 and - whilst still short of the 60,000 required - is significant as it points to potential improvement emerging since the introduction of the National Planning Policy Framework last March. While the lack of viable developable land with planning permission has been the most serious long-term barrier to housing delivery, in the short term mortgage lending has been more significant. In this area too, 2013 has brought progress. The Government-backed NewBuy scheme has gained considerable traction, with a weekly average of 130 reservations, almost double last year’s average, resulting in a current cumulative total of more than 3700 reservations. The doubling of reservations under NewBuy this year has come in partnership with a general lowering of mortgage rates - triggered by the Funding for Lending Scheme - making home ownership more affordable. Signs of easing in both constraints have raised hopes that developers will be able to increase production from the current very low levels, giving the country a social and economic boost. But significant threats to any potential recovery being sustained remain and more needs to be done to ensure these positive indicators are sustained. At today’s HBF Policy Conference and in its Budget Submission HBF is warning that;
    • The Government’s Planning Inspectorate must continue to robustly monitor Local Plans and throw out unsatisfactory ones. Half of local authorities still don’t have Local Plans in place, despite it being a requirement since 2004. This cannot be allowed to thwart development.
    • Government must maintain its support and it is vital that schemes such as NewBuy are extended to give certainty and security to home builders.
    • Regulatory costs are now a huge threat to site viability. Government must act to meet its commitment to reduce costs and cut red tape
    • Medium and small businesses are still struggling to secure business finance and need support
    Speaking today at the industry’s annual conference, Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of HBF will say; “It has been a very positive start to the new year, with signs of an easing of the two main blockages that have greatly hindered our industry. But significant threats to any sustainable recovery remain. “The increase in residential permissions is hopefully a reflection of the positive planning principles of the new system. It is still very early days though and the increases must be sustained. Government must ensure the system continues to be underpinned by a robust appeals process where local authorities are not meeting the responsibilities they have to their communities. “The lack of affordable mortgage lending has strangled the industry’s activity for several years and any glimmer of increased lending or lower rates is positive. NewBuy is playing a big part and gaining substantial momentum, boosted by recent reductions in mortgage rates in response to the Funding for Lending Scheme. House building is a long process so it is vital Government maintains this support. “As Government looks for ways to maintain this improvement it must also focus on its commitment to reduce red tape costs. Direct and indirect taxation, coupled with regulation, is making many building sites unviable and has got to be addressed. “Building the homes we need would take millions of people off social housing waiting lists and enable beleaguered young families to get a foot on the housing ladder. It could also create half a million new jobs and give the country a massive and much-needed economic boost. We are seeing progress – we now need to maintain it.” Allan Wilén, Economics Director at Glenigan, that complies the Housing Pipeline report for HBF commented, “The marked increase in the number of units approved during 2012 suggests that the recent changes to the National Planning Policy Framework, combined with expectations of improved market conditions, may be enabling house builders to bring more sites forward for development. However the number of units approved still remains some 39% down on the levels seen during 2006 and 2007.  -       ENDS   - For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to editors 1.     The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk 2.     With over 30 years experience, Glenigan is the genuine market leading provider of UK construction and civil engineering project, company and market information. Part of the Insight Division of Emap Limited, one of the UK’s largest media businesses providing must-have information, magazines and events, Glenigan users enjoy small business intimacy combined with business security. 3.      The Housing Pipeline report for Q1 2013 will be published in June. 4.     Planning permissions granted now will, in the main, be built over the next three or four years. Around 110,000 homes a year in England are currently being built, against a requirement for 240,000, so the need to see a continued and steady increase on the number of permissions granted is quite clear. 5.     Housing need figures based on DCLG Household Formation Projections. The number of households in England is projected to grow from 21.7m in 2008 to 27.5m in 2033, a rise of 5.8m (27%), or 232,000 per year. The latest projections have reduced household growth by approximately 20,000 per year[1] compared with the previous, 2006-based projections. http://www.communities.gov.uk/documents/statistics/pdf/1780763.pdf
    ]]>     Tue, 12 Mar 2013 09:56:00 +0000     Consumers Hand out Top Marks To Home-Building Industry http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/consumers-hand-out-top-marks-to-home-building-industry/ Outstanding satisfaction levels as industry continues to drive improvements in customer service... Outstanding satisfaction levels as industry continues to drive improvements in customer service standards More than nine out of ten home buyers are satisfied with the overall quality of their new homes, according to new figures released by Britain’s home building industry. The results of the home building industry’s eighth customer satisfaction survey, carried out by the Home Builders Federation and NHBC, reveal another year-on-year increase in customer satisfaction to a level that matches or exceeds those in almost any other industry or sector. The independently verified survey of 29,330 new home buyers reveals that an overwhelming 91 per cent are very or fairly satisfied with the quality of their new home and the same number would recommend their builder to a friend. The results will be announced this evening at an industry-hosted event with Housing Minister Mark Prisk in Westminster. Click here for full results They once again prove the industry’s commitment to achieving the highest levels of customer service and satisfaction. They have been achieved despite a background of continuing economic uncertainty, huge changes with the planning system, restricted mortgage availability and the burden of significant regulatory costs that poses a clear threat to innovation. In addition to the remarkable and steady improvement in Customer Satisfaction revealed by the survey, the industry also has its own self-imposed Consumer Code, ensuring customer concerns are heard and that disputes can be resolved through an independent adjudication system. The survey results and the Code, in addition to a ten-year warranty on all new homes, combine to give new build home purchasers genuine confidence in the product they are buying. Stewart Baseley, Executive Chairman of HBF, said today: “These results clearly demonstrate that consumers are overwhelmingly happy with the service house builders are delivering. “The industry has often faced criticism over the last few years from misguided or ill-intentioned “experts”, but the people who really matter - those who buy new homes - are giving us a clear thumbs up. “It is essential that we achieve these high satisfaction levels when providing a product that represents most people’s largest investment, both financially and emotionally. But creating a great home is not straightforward. These superb results are a credit to our industry and all its employees.” Mike Quinton, Chief Executive of NHBC, said: ‘These results are an incredible vote of confidence in the UK house building industry. They underline the commitment of the industry to produce high quality new homes and provide excellent service to consumers. ‘They demonstrate that the vast majority of UK house builders have worked hard to drive up standards despite operating through challenging economic times. I would like to pay tribute to all the builders up and down the country who have contributed to these fantastic results.’  For media enquiries, to arrange an interview, or to book a press place at this evenings Ministerial event, please contact Steve Turner – 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors: 1.       The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the principal representative body for private sector home builders and voice of the home building industry in England and Wales. HBF member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk  2.      NHBC is the leading warranty and insurance provider for new homes in the UK. NHBC's ten-year Buildmark warranty covers around 80 percent of new homes built in the UK, having covered nearly eight million homes since it began and currently protecting around 1.6 million homes. Buildmark has evolved over the years, expanding to cover more areas, offering a greater scope of protection for homeowners. NHBC's primary purpose is to help raise standards to protect homeowners. NHBC is an independent non-profit distributing company, reinvesting all resources in further research and work to improve the construction standard of new UK houses for the benefit of homeowners. 3.     HBF’s national survey of new home buyers was launched in 2005 in response to one of the recommendations of the Barker Review of Housing Supply (2004).This report presents results from HBF’s eight Customer Satisfaction Survey, covering the 12 months October 2011 to September 2012 4.     The HBF National New Home Customer Satisfaction Survey is a continuous self-completion postal census of the new home purchasers. The results include the HBF member companies highlighted in the attached document (CSS 2013 results) – as well as a representative sample of home builders from across the rest of the industry. 5.     Of  53,270 questionnaires mailed,  29,330 were returned, a response rate of 55.1%]]> Mon, 11 Mar 2013 13:26:00 +0000 Industry Beefs Up To Tackle Local Authorities on Planning http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/industry-beefs-up-to-tackle-local-authorities-on-planning/ House builders act to ensure responsibilities for desperately needed homes are being met The house... House builders act to ensure responsibilities for desperately needed homes are being met The house building industry has taken a decisive step to ensure Local Authorities are abiding by their responsibilities under the new National Planning Policy Framework. On behalf of the industry, and funded by its larger members, HBF has beefed up its planning department to enable it to represent the industry at all forthcoming local plan examinations. HBF has made representations at numerous selected local plans since the NPPF was introduced. But this experience has revealed some emerging trends that emphasise the need for more resource to allow representation at ALL future plan examinations. The NPPF requires Local Authorities to robustly asses their housing need and then allocate sufficient land to meet that need. However, experience at examinations thus far has revealed;
    • Some Local Authorities failing to conduct an ‘objective assessment’ of their housing needs
    • ‘objective assessments’ being distorted by subjective considerations and policy assumptions such as citing the effect of the recession or environmental/heritage constraints
    • evidence that the ‘duty to cooperate ‘is failing and represents the weakest provision of the NPPF and is a huge obstacle to meeting housing need
    • Some LAs relying on unviable and non-deliverable development in regeneration areas to bulk out their five year land supplies
    Speaking today, HBF Executive Chairman Stewart Baseley said; “If the new planning system is to work as intended and deliver the homes the country needs it is vital that Local Authorities abide by the responsibilities it has given them. This new capacity will enable the industry to be represented at all future Local Plan Inquiries, and ensure we are challenging Local Authorities that are not making adequate provision for their housing need. With power comes responsibility and we want to ensure responsibilities are being met.” HBF has recruited two new experienced planners who will work under HBF Panning Director Andrew Whitaker and report to the newly established Plans Management Group comprising  representatives of the major house builders.  Mathew Good will be covering the local planning authorities of the three former regions of the north; Sue Green will cover the East and West Midlands and the South West. They will join local plans veteran James Stevens, who will cover London, the South East and the East of England. For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors:  1.    The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk]]>     Mon, 04 Mar 2013 11:37:00 +0000     Broken Ladder 3 - West Midlands http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/broken-ladder-3-south-east-copy-8/ the Locked out Generation ‘time to save a deposit in the West Midlands nearly triples in a... the Locked out Generation

     ‘time to save a deposit in the West Midlands nearly triples in a decade’

    However, signs of thaw in mortgage market and lifeline from Government backed schemes providing optimism
    • On average in the WM saving a deposit will now take 64 months
    • A decade ago it took 25 months
    • First time buyer numbers have plummeted by 64% in 10 years
    • Government schemes increasingly important to help families get on to the property ladder
    However;
    • Funding for lending leading to increase in lending
    • Government backed Newbuy and Firstbuy schemes increasingly helping families get on to the property ladder
    New research released today starkly illustrates the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people wishing to buy a home – and how much the situation has deteriorated in the last decade. However, there is some hope emerging for people looking to buy. The Government’s Funding for Lending scheme has resulted in some thawing in the mortgage market. Whilst Government-backed schemes such as Newbuy and Firstbuy are providing a lifeline for an increasing number of people who would otherwise be excluded. On average in the West Midlands, somebody in their 20s wanting to purchase the average first time buyer home (£129,332) would have to save a deposit of £25,866. Even saving 33% of their net income it would take them nearly five and half years to put together the necessary deposit. In 2002, a person in the same circumstances would have saved a deposit in a little over two years. The reality is even harsher. When you factor in the costs of paying rent, utility bills and council tax, while trying to save a deposit, the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people becomes apparent. For potential first time buyers in their twenties saving half of their discretionary net income (that is, net income after paying council tax, rent, energy and water bills) it will take on average in the West Midlands seven and half years to put together a deposit for their first home. This increasing ‘deposit gap’ has seen the number of FTBs plummet and created a Locked-out Generation. In the five years to 2002 the number of first time buyers in England averaged 543,000 each year. In the last five years to 2012 that number has collapsed to 197,000.   The figures are revealed in HBF’s latest Broken Ladder report – ‘The Locked-out Generation - A decade of decline and the deposit gap’. It is the third such report to be published and identifies the increasing lack of accessibility to the housing market at a time when supply is critically low. However, there is some hope emerging for people looking to buy. Government-backed schemes such as Newbuy and Firstbuy are providing a lifeline for an increasing number of people who would otherwise be excluded. Newbuy, allows people to buy a new build home with a 5% deposit. This cuts the average FTB deposit to a more realistic £6,466. More than 3,000 people have reserved a home through NewBuy already and the first few weeks of 2013 have seen a big increase in the weekly number of reservations as more people become aware of the scheme and, crucially, lenders cut interest rates. FirstBuy, the Gvmnt/Industry funded shared equity scheme that also allows people to buy with a 5% deposit had helped over 10,000 before running out of funds. After pressure from the housing sector, and realising its critical importance, Government has extended the scheme deadline and allocated further funds that will help an additional 16,500 people buy their own home. Stewart Baseley, HBF Executive Chairman, said today: “This report reveals the extent of our housing crisis and the challenge faced by today’s young people. Unlike previous generations that took home ownership for granted, today’s generation have a mountain to climb if they wish to own their own home. We are creating a locked out generation. “However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel and there are now several ways for people to buy with a more normal deposit. Government backed schemes such as Newbuy are offering real options for people looking to buy – or move home – and we are seeing more and more take advantage.” For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors: 1.     The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s 300 member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk]]>     Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:12:00 +0000     Broken Ladder 3 - North West http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/broken-ladder-3-south-east-copy-7/ the Locked out Generation ‘time to save a deposit in the North West nearly triples in a... the Locked out Generation

     ‘time to save a deposit in the North West nearly triples in a decade’

    Government backed schemes increasingly providing lifeline in desperate times
    • On average in the NW saving a deposit will now take 59 months
    • A decade ago it took 21 months
    • First time buyer numbers have plummeted by 64% in 10 years
    • Government  Newbuy and Firstbuy schemes increasingly important to help families get on to the property ladder
    New research released today starkly illustrates the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people wishing to buy a home – and how much the situation has deteriorated in the last decade. On average in the North West, somebody in their 20s wanting to purchase the average first time buyer home (£118,722) would have to save a deposit of £23,744. Even saving 33% of their net income it would take them nearly five years to put together the necessary deposit. In 2002, a person in the same circumstances would have saved a deposit in under two years – 21 months. The reality is even harsher. When you factor in the costs of paying rent, utility bills and council tax, while trying to save a deposit, the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people becomes apparent. For potential first time buyers in their twenties saving half of their discretionary net income (that is, net income after paying council tax, rent, energy and water bills) it will take on average in the North West almost seven years – 83 months - to put together a deposit for their first home. This increasing ‘deposit gap’ has seen the number of FTBs plummet and created a Locked-out Generation. In the five years to 2002 the number of first time buyers in England averaged 543,000 each year. In the last five years to 2012 that number has collapsed to 197,000.   The figures are revealed in HBF’s latest Broken Ladder report – ‘The Locked-out Generation - A decade of decline and the deposit gap’. It is the third such report to be published and identifies the increasing lack of accessibility to the housing market at a time when supply is critically low. However, there is some hope emerging for people looking to buy. Government-backed schemes such as Newbuy and Firstbuy are providing a lifeline for an increasing number of people who would otherwise be excluded. Newbuy, allows people to buy a new build home with a 5% deposit. This cuts the average FTB deposit to a more realistic £5936. More than 3,000 people have reserved a home through NewBuy already and the first few weeks of 2013 have seen a big increase in the weekly number of reservations as more people become aware of the scheme and, crucially, lenders cut interest rates. FirstBuy, the Gvmnt/Industry funded shared equity scheme that also allows people to buy with a 5% deposit has already helped over 10,000 before running out of funds. After pressure from the housing sector, and realising its critical importance, Government has extended the scheme deadline and allocated further funds that will help a further 16,500 people buy their own home. Stewart Baseley, HBF Executive Chairman, said today: “This report reveals the extent of our housing crisis and the challenge faced by today’s young people. Unlike previous generations that took home ownership for granted, today’s generation have a mountain to climb if they wish to own their own home. We are creating a locked out generation. “However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel and there are now several ways for people to buy with a more normal deposit. Government backed schemes such as Newbuy are offering real options for people looking to buy – or move home – and we are seeing more and more take advantage.” For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors: 1.     The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s 300 member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk]]>     Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:12:00 +0000     Broken Ladder 3 -Yorkshire & the Humber http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/broken-ladder-3-south-east-copy-6/ the Locked out Generation ‘time to save a deposit in the Yorkshire & the Humber nearly... the Locked out Generation

     ‘time to save a deposit in the Yorkshire & the Humber nearly triples in a decade’

    Government backed schemes increasingly providing lifeline in desperate times
    • On average in the Yorkshire & the Humber saving a deposit will now take 59 months
    • A decade ago it took 20 months
    • First time buyer numbers have plummeted by 64% in 10 years
    But;
    • Funding for lending leading to increase in lending
    • Government backed Newbuy and Firstbuy schemes increasingly helping families get on to the property ladder
    New research released today starkly illustrates the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people wishing to buy a home – and how much the situation has deteriorated in the last decade. On average in Yorkshire & the Humber, somebody in their 20s wanting to purchase the average first time buyer home (£119,078) would have to save a deposit of £23,816. Even saving 33% of their net income it would take them nearly five years to put together the necessary deposit. In 2002, a person in the same circumstances would have saved a deposit in under two years. The reality is even harsher. When you factor in the costs of paying rent, utility bills and council tax, while trying to save a deposit, the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people becomes apparent. For potential first time buyers in their twenties saving half of their discretionary net income (that is, net income after paying council tax, rent, energy and water bills) it will take on average in Yorkshire & the Humber 6 years and 6 months to put together a deposit for their first home. This increasing ‘deposit gap’ has seen the number of FTBs plummet and created a Locked-out Generation. In the five years to 2002 the number of first time buyers in England averaged 543,000 each year. In the last five years to 2012 that number has collapsed to 197,000.   The figures are revealed in HBF’s latest Broken Ladder report – ‘The Locked-out Generation - A decade of decline and the deposit gap’. It is the third such report to be published and identifies the increasing lack of accessibility to the housing market at a time when supply is critically low. However, there is some hope emerging for people looking to buy. Government-backed schemes such as Newbuy and Firstbuy are providing a lifeline for an increasing number of people who would otherwise be excluded. Newbuy, allows people to buy a new build home with a 5% deposit. This cuts the average FTB deposit to a more realistic £5954. More than 3,000 people have reserved a home through NewBuy already and the first few weeks of 2013 have seen a big increase in the weekly number of reservations as more people become aware of the scheme and, crucially, lenders cut interest rates. FirstBuy, the Gvmnt/Industry funded shared equity scheme that also allows people to get a home with 5% deposit has helped over 10,000 before it ran out of funds. After pressure from the housing sector, and realising its critical importance, Government has extended the scheme deadline and allocated further funds that will help a further 16,500 people buy their own home. Stewart Baseley, HBF Executive Chairman, said today: “This report reveals the extent of our housing crisis and the challenge faced by today’s young people. Unlike previous generations that took home ownership for granted, today’s generation have a mountain to climb if they wish to own their own home. We are creating a locked out generation. “However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel and there are now several ways for people to buy with a more normal deposit. Government backed schemes such as Newbuy are offering real options for people looking to buy – or move home – and we are seeing more and more take advantage.” For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors: 1.     The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s 300 member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk]]>     Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:12:00 +0000     Broken Ladder 3 - South West http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/broken-ladder-3-south-east-copy-5/ the Locked out Generation ‘time to save a deposit in the South West nearly triples in a... the Locked out Generation

    ‘time to save a deposit in the South West nearly triples in a decade’

    However, signs of thaw in mortgage market and lifeline from Government backed schemes providing optimism
    • On average in the SW saving a deposit will now take 79 months
    • A decade ago it took 33 months
    • First time buyer numbers have plummeted by 64% in 10 years
    • Government schemes increasingly important to help families get on to the property ladder
    However;
    • Funding for Lending Scheme is increasing lending
    • Government backed Newbuy and Firstbuy schemes are helping more families get on to the property ladder
    New research released today starkly illustrates the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people wishing to buy a home – and how much the situation has deteriorated in the last decade. However, there is some hope emerging for people looking to buy. The Government’s Funding for Lending scheme has resulted in some thawing in the mortgage market and Government-backed schemes such as Newbuy and Firstbuy are providing a lifeline for an increasing number of people who would otherwise be excluded from home ownership. On average in the South West, somebody in their 20s wanting to purchase the average first time buyer home (£160,225) would have to save a deposit of £32,045. Even saving 33% of their net income it would take them over six and a half years to put together the necessary deposit. In 2002, a person in the same circumstances would have saved a deposit in under three years. The reality is even harsher. When you factor in the costs of paying rent, utility bills and council tax, while trying to save a deposit, the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people becomes apparent. For potential first time buyers in their twenties saving half of their discretionary net income (that is, net income after paying council tax, rent, energy and water bills) it will take on average in the South West nearly 11 years to put together a deposit for their first home. This increasing ‘deposit gap’ has seen the number of FTBs plummet and created a Locked-out Generation. In the five years to 2002 the number of first time buyers in England averaged 543,000 each year. In the last five years to 2012 that number has collapsed to 197,000.   The figures are revealed in HBF’s latest Broken Ladder report – ‘The Locked-out Generation - A decade of decline and the deposit gap’. It is the third such report to be published and identifies the increasing lack of accessibility to the housing market at a time when supply is critically low. Newbuy, allows people to buy a new build home with a 5% deposit. This cuts the average FTB deposit to a more realistic £8,011. More than 3,000 people have reserved a home through NewBuy already and the first few weeks of 2013 have seen a big increase in the weekly number of reservations as more people become aware of the scheme and, crucially, lenders cut interest rates. FirstBuy, the Gvmnt/Industry funded shared equity scheme that also allows people to buy with a 5% deposit had helped over 10,000 before running out of funds. After pressure from the housing sector, and realising its critical importance, Government has extended the scheme deadline and allocated further funds that will help an additional 16,500 people buy their own home. Stewart Baseley, HBF Executive Chairman, said today: “This report reveals the extent of our housing crisis and the challenge faced by today’s young people. Unlike previous generations that took home ownership for granted, today’s generation have a mountain to climb if they wish to own their own home. We are creating a locked out generation. “However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel and there are now several ways for people to buy with a more normal deposit. Government backed schemes such as Newbuy are offering real options for people looking to buy – or move home – and we are seeing more and more take advantage.” For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors: 1.     The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s 300 member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk]]>     Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:12:00 +0000     Broken Ladder 3 - North East http://www.hbf.co.uk//media-centre/news/view/broken-ladder-3-south-east-copy-4/ the Locked out Generation ‘time to save a deposit in the north east nearly triples in a... the Locked out Generation

    ‘time to save a deposit in the north east nearly triples in a decade’

    Government backed schemes increasingly providing lifeline in desperate times
    • On average in the NE saving a deposit will now take 55 months
    • A decade ago it took 20 months
    • First time buyer numbers have plummeted by 64% in 10 years
    • Government schemes increasingly important to help families get on to the property ladder
    New research released today starkly illustrates the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people wishing to buy a home – and how much the situation has deteriorated in the last decade. On average in the North East, somebody in their 20s wanting to purchase the average first time buyer home (£109,180) would have to save a deposit of £21,836. Even saving 33% of their net income it would take them nearly 5 years – 55 months to put together the necessary deposit. In 2002, a person in the same circumstances would have saved a deposit in under 2 years. The reality is even harsher. When you factor in the costs of paying rent, utility bills and council tax, while trying to save a deposit, the scale of the challenge faced by today’s young people becomes apparent. For potential first time buyers in their twenties saving half of their discretionary net income (that is, net income after paying council tax, rent, energy and water bills) it will take on average in the North East more than 6 years to put together a deposit for their first home. This increasing ‘deposit gap’ has seen the number of FTBs plummet and created a Locked-out Generation. In the five years to 2002 the number of first time buyers in England averaged 543,000 each year. In the last five years to 2012 that number has collapsed to 197,000.   The figures are revealed in HBF’s latest Broken Ladder report – ‘The Locked-out Generation - A decade of decline and the deposit gap’. It is the third such report to be published and identifies the increasing lack of accessibility to the housing market at a time when supply is critically low. However, there is some hope emerging for people looking to buy. Government-backed schemes such as Newbuy and Firstbuy are providing a lifeline for an increasing number of people who would otherwise be excluded. Newbuy, allows people to buy a new build home with a 5% deposit. This cuts the average FTB deposit to a more realistic £5459. More than 3,000 people have reserved a home through NewBuy already and the first few weeks of 2013 have seen a big increase in the weekly number of reservations as more people become aware of the scheme and, crucially, lenders cut interest rates. FirstBuy, the Gvmnt/Industry funded shared equity scheme that also allows people to get a 95% deposit helped over 10,000 before running out of funds. After pressure from the housing sector, and realising its critical importance, Government extended the scheme deadline and allocated further funds that will help a further 16,500 people buy their own home. Stewart Baseley, HBF Executive Chairman, said today: “This report reveals the extent of our housing crisis and the challenge faced by today’s young people. Unlike previous generations that took home ownership for granted, today’s generation have a mountain to climb if they wish to own their own home. We are creating a locked out generation. “However, there is some light at the end of the tunnel and there are now several ways for people to buy with a more normal deposit. Government backed schemes such as Newbuy are offering real options for people looking to buy – or move home – and we are seeing more and more take advantage.” For media enquiries, or to arrange an interview, please contact Steve Turner on 020 7960 1606 / 07919 307 760 or steve.turner@hbf.co.uk Notes to Editors: 1.     The Home Builders Federation (HBF) is the representative body of the home building industry in England and Wales. The HBF’s 300 member firms account for some 80% of all new homes built in England and Wales in any one year, and include companies of all sizes, ranging from multi-national, household names through regionally based businesses to small local companies: www.hbf.co.uk]]>     Mon, 11 Feb 2013 10:12:00 +0000