Fixing China’s real estate sector

In the two decades since China’s State Council officially classified the real estate sector as a “pillar industry,” the sector has undergone rapid development, propelling gross domestic product growth and inspiring in millions of Chinese the dream of owning their own home.

But the sector is now plagued by problems, from high prices to massive debts, and threatens to undermine growth at a time when China can ill afford it.

Though there is no private land ownership in China, households are eager to own their own homes, both to improve their living conditions and to accumulate wealth. Chinese cannot easily purchase foreign assets, owing to capital controls, and Chinese stock exchanges have not been performing strongly. China does not tax residential real estate, capital gains, or inheritance — and promises major gains in value. As a result, property becomes the most attractive asset form to own.