Housing Economics

This module focuses on basic economic theory and its application to housing finance in the UK and the place that housing finance has within the wider economy. The lectures will use the idea of housing markets as the framework for analysis, therefore assessing the links between owner occupation, the private sector rented and social rented sectors and the inclusion of economic principles to housing finance policy development. The module looks at the economic mechanisms that influence national housing policy, the links between capital and revenue, funding mechanisms and the impact on national economic priorities. In addition to national frameworks, including welfare economics, the module will discuss the application of national policy to the businesses of housing organisations including local authorities, housing associations, and private landlords and explore the resultant financial environment within which they operate. The financial priorities and mechanisms of housing organisations business plans will be analysed to offer the student an appreciation of the role of finance directors and boards and the financial relationships that underpin the housing business.