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Elissa de Carteret – 15th May 2021
Scrutiny Matters Feedback - Affordable Housing
Buying property seems entirely out of reach for younger people. I am in my mid 30s. Both my partner and I are Jersey born (I am 5th generation Jersey) and currently renting a 1 bedroom property privately. We are unable to save for a mortgage due to the high cost of rent, despite me having a good job. We would ideally like to start a family but would not consider this without suitable accommodation. The only thing keeping us in Jersey is my job, which I do not want to leave. The previous first time buyer schemes have been aimed toward those with a connection to the Parish in which they are built, which has meant that many people miss out. We are signed up to the Andium gateway scheme but are only offered very small 1 bed properties, due to the fact we have decided to be responsible and not start a family before we have the required space to do so.
I love my Jersey home but the island is becoming increasingly difficult to live in and can often feel unwelcoming.
To be able to put our names down for a first time buyer scheme, with deferred deposit payments, that offers a 2 bed house, without discrimination due to the fact we do not yet have a child, would be ideal.
Investors are also pushing property prices way outside of what is reachable.