English Housing Survey - 2021

Whilst we are still digesting the detail, and there appears to have been a lack of survey engagement in some demographics, on the whole the data appears positive, and generally reflects what most of us already know about the impact of the pandemic. We can take a number of positive messages from the report; the number of renters Vs homeowners in the UK stayed broadly the same as the previous year. People moved to homes which included more outdoor space, reflecting shifting attitude to work / life balance. The standard of homes in the social sector improved! Energy efficient is up. 65% of the nation are property owners of which 35% have no mortgage reflecting the large numbers of ‘baby boomers’ reaching retirement age, paying off their mortgages and moving into outright ownership. According to the data, people who own a home are statistically happier than those that don't. However it isn't all good news, the figures evidence people still struggling to get onto the property market, particularly in London where, 27% of the population were renting, and only 51% own their own home. Loneliness increased, and well-being declined, sadly this is more prevalent in the social sector where some of the more vulnerable people are. So our message is perhaps talk to your neighbours this Christmas, particularly those who are older or live alone. You could make a difference.