News from the Residential Property Investor, the bi-monthly magazine for RLA members other artilces from the August / September 2000 issue RPI news archive

Repossessions at 10 year low - August / September 2000

Mortgage repossessions in the first six months of the year were at the lowest level for ten years, according to the Council of Mortgage Lenders.

Just over 12,000 properties were repossessed in the period, 25 per cent down on the same period last year.

'The sharp fall reflects the strength of the economy and the housing market, as well as the clear commitment of lenders to sustain people in their homes wherever possible and to seek possession only as a last resort', said CML deputy director general Peter Williams.

The recent Housing Green Paper is 'a welcome step towards a more balanced housing policy, integrating home ownership with the rental sector and social housing provision', said the CML in its official response to Government proposals. But more help should be provided for people on low incomes 'and to restore balance to a housing benefit system biased in favour of poor people living in rented accommodation'.

other artilces from the August / September 2000 issue

• Landlord forums
• Prescott heads for spat with Spath
• No hiding from asylum tax bill
• Housing market 'quietens down'
• Repossessions at 10 year low
• Briefing: Letting agencies