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SNP Pledges First Refusal Right for Private Renters to Buy Their Homes

The plan turns housing policy into a central fight in Scotland's May election.

Overview

  • John Swinney announced Friday on the campaign trail that the SNP would give tenants a legal first chance to buy the home they rent at a fair market price if the landlord decides to sell.
  • He said an SNP government would table legislation after the vote if re-elected, arguing the change would help renters stay put and feel secure.
  • The pledge is paired with a separate promise of up to £10,000 for deposits from a proposed £100 million First Homes fund for first-time buyers.
  • Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar dismissed the offer as too limited and promised to build 125,000 homes, pointing to rising rough sleeping and more than 10,000 children in temporary accommodation.
  • The Daily Record highlighted the details of the SNP offer, while the Independent led on Labour's attack, reflecting how the housing crunch now shapes the campaign debate.