Marques Mendes: Government Housing Plan Insufficient, Calls for Rental Market Reform
Government’s New Housing Measures
Portuguese presidential candidate Luís Marques Mendes has called the government’s latest housing plan “positive but insufficient.” On Monday, he said that focusing on new construction is a correct long-term goal, but it won’t solve the current rental housing crisis quickly.
Last weekend, Prime Minister Luís Montenegro announced a “new push” for the housing sector. Key points of the plan include:
- Securing a €1.3 billion credit line from the European Investment Bank (EIB) for affordable housing.
- Directing all state departments to report unused property and convert vacant buildings into residential units.
Focus on the Rental Market
Marques Mendes stressed that these measures won’t provide a short-term solution:
“Building new homes takes years. People cannot wait five years.”
He urged the government to focus on the rental housing market, which he says has been hindered by previous policies. These policies discouraged property owners from renting out their homes.
Proposed Solutions
Mendes recommends actions to boost rental housing supply quickly:
- Create a legal framework – provide stability and predictability for landlords.
- Increase rental supply – encourage property owners to make homes available faster.
- Collaborate with professionals – include real estate agents, architects, home inspectors, civil engineers, and constructors to speed up conversions.
Government Response and Public Debate
The Prime Minister’s office defended its plan, highlighting the mobilization of state assets and the EIB credit line as important steps. Housing affordability, however, remains a major concern for Portuguese citizens and a key political issue.
Quick Notes
- Rental market reforms affect both investors and professionals like accountants and real estate lawyers.
- Experts such as electricians and constructors are needed for rapid renovation projects.
