StoneRoad2013's photos with the keyword: second homes

A drastic cut in house values in some parts of Wales. I'm not convinced that it will help local people as wages are generally very low in many areas, so they still can't afford to buy ... . not my image : fair use & public information

Types of dwellings classified by Gwynedd CC as "second homes" ... . Not my Image : fair use & public education

There is a concerted campaign in certain quarters to reduce the second / airbnb problem of pricing out local people in the NW Wales area, and also makes claims about the loss of the Welsh language. . But I don't think over-charging on council tax is really the way forward ... . I've highlighted "Porthmadog" as it is an area I know fairly well. Yes, I admit that it does have some second homes, but quite a few of those are owned by people intending to retire there, plus another - somewhat overlapping - group are owned by families that volunteer for the busy narrow-gauge railways that operate there and which attract many thousands of tourists every year. The one railway is actually a significant local employer, despite using volunteers. Note also that many second homes have been renovations of what otherwise would be derelict buildings. . Not my Image : fair use & public education

The "problem" with second / holiday homes around England & Wales ... Too high a proportion means high prices force out local people, especially in low-pay areas. Situation is made far worse when the "incomers" do not contribute to the local economy nor the community. eg, not buying food in local shops, nor going into the village pub / church ... instead, bringing all the food with them and staying in watching dvds. Some of these homes have been bought with retirement plans in mind. One or two councils have "retaliated" by charging extra 50% or 100% council tax levies ... not my image : fair use & public education