Notes on the Front

The latest DAFT report is out covering rents.  I have written the quarterly commentary which can be read here (and thanks to Ronan Lyons for inviting me to write the commentary).  The headline news is that rents have 'stabilised' and have started to rise – though whether this presages a long-term upward trend remains to be seen.  However, I go behind the numbers to examine a

' . . . fragmented, under-capitalised 'cottage' industry lacking the professionalism and modern synergy with a strong regulatory culture that prevails in other EU countries.'

With demand for rental accommodation likely to rise in the long-term, we need a sector that can provide life-long living options for single people, families with children, elderly – all the various demographic groups.  But the Irish rental sector, long ignored by Governments, is not as currently structured, up to it.  How can we transform it?  Go have a read.