The Scottish National Party (SNP) has unveiled a new housing policy that would grant private tenants "first refusal" to purchase their rental homes if landlords decide to sell. Party leader John Swinney announced the initiative during a campaign visit to Inverness, framing it as a solution to help renters overcome barriers to homeownership.
"So many people are stuck paying more on rent than they would on a mortgage—and with costs just going up and up, there is nothing left over at the end of the month to save for a deposit," Swinney stated. "That is why I will give renters the right to first refusal on the home they live in—at a fair market rate—if the owner of the property decides to sell."
Under the proposal, tenants would receive a period of exclusivity to buy the property at market value when it is listed for sale. Swinney argued this would prevent renters from being "locked out" of ownership and provide greater housing security.
The announcement comes amid a declared national housing emergency in Scotland, marked by a severe shortage of social homes, rising homelessness, and escalating property costs. Recent data shows the average property price in Scotland reached £188,000 in early 2026, with Edinburgh averaging £294,000. Monthly rents have climbed to an average of £1,022, further straining tenants' ability to save.
Opposition parties were quick to criticize the plan. The Scottish Conservatives labeled it "ill thought out," warning it could hinder market activity and citing previous rent controls that they claim worsened affordability. Scottish Labour accused the SNP of allowing housebuilding to "collapse" and dismissed the proposal as insufficient, pledging instead to deliver 125,000 new homes. The Scottish Liberal Democrats and Scottish Greens also expressed skepticism, with the latter emphasizing the need for rent control zones and broader tenant protections.
In addition to the first refusal policy, the SNP has promised to establish a new housing agency, reform planning systems, and create a £100 million first homes fund offering up to £10,000 in deposit assistance to first-time buyers. However, the party faces scrutiny over its track record, having previously committed to 110,000 affordable homes by 2032—a target now in doubt due to budget cuts and construction delays.
As the Holyrood election approaches, housing remains a pivotal issue, with parties diverging on strategies to address the crisis. While the SNP's latest pledge aims to empower tenants, its implementation and impact remain subjects of intense debate.