Understanding the Growing Trend of Houses in Multiple Occupation in Kent
Kent now has about 2,000 Houses in Multiple Occupation (HMOs). The housing market changes fast. Shared homes now attract many residents, from students to workers. These homes share rooms and facilities. They are a needed choice for many who seek low-cost living in a tight property market.
What Is an HMO?
The Office for National Statistics shows that England has about 475,000 HMOs. Kent adds nearly 1,900 to this count. An HMO is any home that houses people from different households. People usually think of HMOs as shared flats where each room is rented out. This creates a way of living that is unlike standard homes.
In many parts of Kent, the number of HMOs is high. In Canterbury, 768 HMOs exist. In Folkestone, one property has 52 bedrooms. This fact marks a growing trend in such homes.
Living in an HMO: A Personal Perspective
Life in an HMO can vary for each person. John Moran lives in a 10-person HMO in Canterbury. He tells us how this living style works day by day. He says that, despite small fights sometimes, a strong sense of community grows. “Living in a HMO means you must calm yourself from time to time,” he says. He adds that mutual respect is key.
Residents in HMOs must accept this way of living. Rising house costs push many people toward these shared homes. Mr. Moran, a semi-retired person who worked in human resources, does not want a lonely life. He chooses to live with others instead of moving to a typical retirement flat.
The Mixed Reception of HMOs
Despite the community feeling, opinions on HMOs vary. Some locals worry about too many tenants in one home. They fear problems like unsocial behavior and changes in their neighborhood. In Ashford, a plan to change a former care home into a HMO prompted almost 800 objections. These locals worry about the changes in their area.
Mark Goldberg, who works on several HMO changes, says that proper licenses help keep homes in order. He states that any issues go to the council. The council works to keep residential standards high. This work aims at calm neighborhoods and safe areas.
The Economic Context
The rise of HMOs links to a fast-paced housing market. House prices have grown a lot. People like Paula Higgins, who leads the HomeOwners Alliance, say that rising rent pushes people away from single-home renting. In many areas, a private home is too expensive. As a result, more people choose shared homes.
Landlords face high-interest costs. For many, HMOs bring better income. Investors find these homes attractive. Local leader Paul Harper notes that turning regular homes into HMOs is simple. This process needs few extra permissions. It brings more shared homes to the market.
Concluding Thoughts
The trend of HMOs in Kent shows new ways to live and affects the local housing scene. Shared homes provide low-cost living and a strong community feel. Yet, many worry about possible problems. As the market changes, these shared homes will likely stay a large part of both city and town life in the UK.
Understanding HMOs matters for buyers, renters, and those who plan to invest. Kent’s growing HMO scene mirrors wider national house trends. It also shows the ongoing search for affordable living options.
Sources
- Office for National Statistics: Statistics on HMOs in England
- Paula Higgins, HomeOwners Alliance: HomeOwners Alliance Insights
- Kent County Council: Housing Statistics
This article has looked at HMOs in Kent. It shows how residents live, how local people feel, and how the housing market changes. The text gives details for renters and investors in the property field.
