The SNP is promising new renters’ rights (pic: DB Media Services)

SNP leader John Swinney will today set out a package of help to support people into home ownership – including measures to give renters new rights to buy the home they live in.

Campaigning in Inverness, the First Minister will announce that the SNP Government will introduce new legislation to give private renters a period of first refusal to purchase the property they rent at a fair market price if the owner chooses to sell.

The SNP Government will also provide up to £10,000 in help towards a deposit for first time buyers – recognising that many young people are paying more in rent than they would on a mortgage.

The First Minister said: “Too many young people are being locked out of home ownership as a result of the cost of living crisis.  

“So many people are stuck paying more on rent than they would on a mortgage – and with costs just going up and up, there is nothing left over at the end of the month to save for a deposit.

“And that is made all the more difficult when private renters find themselves having to leave their home because the owner has decided to sell up.  As well as forcing people to upend their whole lives, it also has serious financial implications. 

“That is why I will give renters the right to first refusal on the home they live in – at a fair market rate – if the owner of the property decides to sell.  This will help people to put down roots and to feel secure in their own home – without the risk of being turfed out against their will.”

Mr Swinney has already announced a new housing agency More Homes Scotland to build homes more quickly and affordably. He has pledged to invest £4 billion in affordable housing over the next four years, deliver 100,000 affordable homes by 2031/32 and nhance the planning system to ensure new housebuilding is supported.

Scottish Labour housing spokesperson Mark Griffin said: “The SNP has known about the housing emergency for years and yet has dismally failed to get to grips with the crisis.

“Not only have they failed to mix the mess, they have made things worse by allowing housebuilding to collapse. We need a change of government to end Scotland’s housing emergency and deliver a better future for people across the country.

“The idea that establishing yet another quango – taking more of taxpayers’ money – will fundamentally fix this situation is misguided and could represent poor value for money.

“Scottish Labour will deliver the most ambitious housebuilding programme in the history of devolution with 125,000 new homes, so families have the safe, secure homes they need, and home ownership can be within reach for the next generation.

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