The report from the London School of Economics argues that linking council taxes to property values makes more sense and could provide more cash for local councils.

However, implementing this policy requires addressing the UK's long-standing housing supply issue, especially for different age groups' housing needs. The report calls for the government to take decisive action, increase efforts in developing specialized elderly housing, and ensure its inclusion in any new development projects.

Additionally, the report points out a lack of cohesive thinking in the government's approach to housing policies, highlighting the need for a strong government to unify efforts across departments and organizations.

In the UK, stamp duty is a tax that property buyers must pay, and the amount varies based on the property's value. For individuals aged 65 and above, they often already own their homes, but as they age, these homes may become too large or costly to maintain, and they may not want to move away from familiar communities and neighbors.

Therefore, exempting stamp duty for this age group would send a positive signal, encouraging them to downsize and release housing supply.

However, this policy remains controversial, with some arguing that exempting stamp duty and other prepaid taxes would only make the rich richer.

Nevertheless, Professor Tony Crook, the author of the report, emphasizes that stamp duty exemptions should be targeted at the "downsizers," those looking to reduce the size of their homes. Such a policy can drive the top end of the market, encouraging people to move out of larger residences, thereby optimizing the UK's housing stock.

The report also underscores that addressing the housing issue requires comprehensive measures. The government must consider and promptly deliver properties tailored to specific age groups.

With the aging population in the UK, at least 50,000 new homes are needed each year to meet the growing demand. This means policymakers must take decisive action, greenlighting the development of more specialized elderly housing and mandating its inclusion in any new development projects.

The report points out that the UK government lacks cohesive thinking in formulating housing policies. Without a unified and consistent approach, housing conditions will only worsen. A strong government is needed to ensure all government departments, as well as private and public sector housing organizations, follow the same roadmap. Only then can opportunities contributing to building and achieving a positive future be seized.