Getting on the property ladder is an achievement in Britain but for some flat-owners the home-ownership dream has turned sour.
High service charges, fire safety issues, and onerous leasehold conditions are among the issues that have affected flat valuations over the past decade. There are reports of owners, particularly in London, currently selling at a loss.
According to research by Zoopla, the property search website, flats in England take 46–47 days to sell. In Scotland, where the long leasehold system does not apply, the average selling time is 16 days.
There are other factors too. Experts say first-time buyers can’t get loans for flats in blocks with many rentals, or that surveyors are stymying sales by “down valuing”.
All of this is putting a stranglehold on what is traditionally the most affordable route onto the property ladder.
Are you trying to buy or sell a flat? Have you been affected by any of these – or other - issues? Please share your stories with us.
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