Build Europe, the association representing EU homebuilders and developers, presented its recommendations for addressing Europe’s housing challenges at the European Housing Forum. Speaking to the European Commission’s Housing Task Force, the association emphasized the need for affordable housing to be delivered efficiently, sustainably, and competitively, with an active role for private developers, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises. Build Europe proposed six key priorities: • Investment Framework for Affordable Housing: The association called for an EU investment strategy that supports both ownership and rental housing models. Its A-HOPE proposal, developed with Deloitte and presented to the European Investment Bank, includes measures aimed at promoting homeownership to help adjust the housing supply to family needs. • Reform of State Aid in Social Housing: Build Europe advocated for state aid to be based on outcomes rather than the type of provider. It recommended that private residential developers focused on serving vulnerable groups should have equal access to public support. • Taxation Review: Highlighting the impact of high taxation on new homes, Build Europe urged the EU to initiate a housing tax survey to identify best practices and obstacles. The association also proposed tax incentives for primary residences to improve access to affordable housing. • Strategic Spatial Planning and Urban Renewal: Build Europe warned that rigid No Net Land Take regulations could hinder the delivery of affordable housing. It called for a balanced approach to land use that considers both environmental goals and housing needs, alongside investment in underused urban areas and rural regions. • Streamlining Permitting Procedures: The association pointed to increasing complexity and delays in building permit processes, particularly for large housing projects. It recommended simplifying and accelerating permitting procedures to provide greater legal certainty for developers. • Proportional Technical Standards: Build Europe noted that national regulations aimed at promoting sustainability and energy efficiency often add complexity and costs. It proposed a results-based approach that maintains policy objectives while offering greater flexibility and reducing administrative burdens. Build Europe welcomed the European Commission’s renewed focus on housing and described the dialogue at the Forum as constructive. A follow-up meeting between Build Europe and the Housing Task Force is scheduled during the Build Europe Congress in Gdańsk on June 12, where these proposals will be discussed further.