A prominent Scottish lettings agent says the decision of Nicola Sturgeon to resign as Scotland’s First Minister may offer a chance to reset the private rental sector in that country.

David Alexander, chief executive of DJ Alexander, comments: “I would hope that the next Scottish leader would adopt a more conciliatory, reasoned approach to the housing sector consulting widely to produce policy which reflects the reality of all parts of the market.”

“There is an urgent need to address the long-term housing shortage in the social sector, there must be encouragement to sustain and grow the private rented sector, and there needs to be a welcoming investment environment to ensure we have a steady flow of new housing for future home buyers.”

He continues: “There has too often been a confrontational approach to the private rented sector in Scotland and this was part of the reasoning which produced the recent rent freeze and ban on evictions.

“I think the new leader of the SNP needs to understand that the private rented sector is an essential and integral part of the housing market and that this sector will be improved by working closely with those involved in investing, in letting, and in renting homes in Scotland. 

“Only in this way will we have a system that works for landlords and tenants.”

Alexander says Scotland needs a housing industry which reflects the changing needs of its population, and this should involve encouragement and investment in all sectors to ensure demand is met.