Almost all (95%) property professionals have expressed doubt that the new Government housing target will be reached, Countrywide Surveying Services (CSS) has found.

The latest webinar in the firm’s interactive series revealed that just 5% of respondents were optimistic that the Government's target of 1.5 million new homes during the current parliament will be achieved.

The poll, which surveyed over 300 property professionals, also explored the importance of energy efficiency for future homebuyers, with 85% of respondents indicating that energy efficiency will be a "significant factor in homebuying decisions". One in five (20%) said it is "very important" and 65% stated it is "somewhat important".

On the topic of a potential stamp duty holiday for new builds, 47% of attendees were in favour and 53% opposed.

CSS said that this division "underscores the complexity involved with incentivising homeownership" and supporting the new build sector through Government interventions.

Director of new build at CSS, Morné Jacobs, said: "These results reflect the growing concern within the property industry about the feasibility of meeting the Government’s ambitious new homes target. It’s a stark reminder that significant structural changes and support mechanisms are needed to accelerate housebuilding.

"However, there are also positive trends, particularly the increasing emphasis on energy efficiency, which we expect to shape future housing demand.”

Commercial development manager at Leeds Building Society, Richard Rothwell, added: "Building more homes is a crucial part of solving the national housing crisis. However, the Government’s commitment to build 1.5 million homes could be held up under current UK planning processes which are currently weighted towards the minority of people who oppose development, those whose voices are drowning out the people who support building more homes."

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