Private rental demand set to rise because of Right To Buy surge
Summary
The article reports a sharp rise in Right to Buy sales in England during 2025-26, alongside a much smaller number of replacement homes being funded through receipts. It says proposed reforms in the Social Housing Bill would lengthen eligibility, protect new social homes from the scheme for 35 years, and exclude certain rural homes, which could prompt more tenants to buy before the changes take effect.
Why it matters
For residential property surveyors, changes to Right to Buy and the supply of social housing can affect tenure patterns, demand in the private rented sector, and local market dynamics. The proposed reforms may also influence valuation assumptions and transaction activity around former council housing stock.
Key points
- Right to Buy sales in England rose sharply in 2025-26.
- Replacement homes funded through receipts fell, widening pressure on housing supply.
- The Social Housing Bill proposes longer qualifying periods and protections for new social homes.
- A rush of tenant purchases may occur before reforms are implemented.
- Reduced social housing supply may increase demand for private rented accommodation.
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