BPF notes consequence of restricted mortgage lending

Date:Monday 6th September 2010
Author: Susanna Kavka

The British Property Federation (BPF) has noted that current mortgage lending levels are helping to boost the private rented sector.

Chief executive of the organisation Liz Peace claimed the sector has an "important role to play" within the UK population's housing needs.

She said: "While mortgage lending remains restricted, more people are choosing to rent and large house-builders and institutional investors should be encouraged to meet this demand."

Her comments were made after the BPF announced the completion of a deal that will see the Berkeley Group combine with the Homes and Communities Agency to develop 555 houses for renting from 2012.

Ms Peace suggested that more local authorities should think about setting up this type of project alongside private construction companies.

The BPF is hosting a seminar about retail properties in London on September 9th 2010 from 08:00 BST, which will involve contributions by representatives from HMV, Retail Week and Metric.