House Prices – Brokers Ireland Calls On Government To Act Fast On New Housing Policy

Press Release

19th February, 2025

Commenting on the CSO Residential Property Price Index for December showing a slight tapering of the level of increases in the 12 months to December bringing the overall increase to 8.7%, Brokers Ireland said several areas outside Dublin saw increases ahead of the previous month.

And the 2.9% drop in the number of dwelling purchases in 2024 over 2023 clearly points to the well documented lack of availability of homes for purchase.

Rachel McGovern, Deputy Chief Executive at Brokers Ireland, said: “House prices in 2024 rose at levels beyond what most industry commentators expected. These levels are not sustainable except for those on high salaries and those wealthy enough to not be dependent upon mortgage finance.

“There are appalling consequences for our society if policymakers don’t turn around housing in the near future and ensure that those on average incomes can achieve the ambition of owning a home.”

In this regard recent statements from the Government promising more fundamental change are to be welcomed, she said.

“It’s worrying to see that political football and scare mongering tactics are still being played with the issue which is continuing to bring heat rather than light to any debate on housing.

“We would call on the Government to be brave and decisive and not let another year pass before it acts on the recommendations of the Housing Commission in particular,” she said.

And she said it was positive that consideration was being given to moderating planning rules for cabins and modular homes in back gardens. Consideration should also be given to allowing modular homes on unoccupied sites in rural areas where infrastructure could support them, she said.

Ends

Further information:

Rachel McGovern,    Deputy Chief Executive, Brokers Ireland

Tel. 086-8259938

Mairéad Foley, Foley Ryan Communications

Tel. 086-2556764