The topic of government intervention in housing market prices is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on historical data and current trends, this subject has a high probability of appearing in future exams. Its relevance to urban development, economic policies, and social welfare makes it a prime candidate for testing candidates’ critical thinking and writing skills.
Let’s examine a typical question that has appeared in past IELTS exams:
Some people believe that governments should control the price of housing to make it affordable for everyone. Others think that this is not a good idea. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government control of housing prices
- Discuss arguments against government control of housing prices
- Provide their own opinion on the issue
The task involves analyzing both sides of the argument and forming a balanced opinion. It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Housing affordability is a pressing issue in many countries, leading to debates about whether governments should intervene in the market to control prices. While some argue that such measures are necessary to ensure housing accessibility for all, others contend that government interference could have detrimental effects on the housing market and overall economy. In my opinion, while some level of government involvement is beneficial, complete price control is not the ideal solution.
Proponents of government price control argue that it can make housing more affordable for low and middle-income families. By setting price ceilings or implementing strict regulations, governments can prevent excessive speculation and ensure that housing remains within reach for the average citizen. This approach can help reduce income inequality and promote social stability. Moreover, controlled housing prices can contribute to more diverse and inclusive communities, as people from various socioeconomic backgrounds can afford to live in the same areas.
On the other hand, opponents of government intervention argue that it can lead to market distortions and unintended consequences. Price controls may discourage property development and investment, leading to housing shortages and deteriorating quality. Furthermore, artificial price suppression can create black markets and unfair allocation systems, where those with connections or willingness to engage in illegal activities gain an advantage. There’s also concern that such policies could negatively impact economic growth by reducing property values and limiting individuals’ ability to build wealth through real estate.
In my view, a balanced approach is most effective. Instead of directly controlling prices, governments should focus on increasing housing supply through urban planning, zoning reforms, and incentives for affordable housing development. Additionally, targeted subsidies for low-income families and first-time homebuyers can help address affordability issues without distorting the entire market. Implementing policies to curb speculative practices and ensure transparency in property transactions can also contribute to a more stable and fair housing market.
In conclusion, while the intention behind government price control in the housing market is understandable, its implementation can lead to various complications. A more nuanced approach that combines supply-side measures, targeted assistance, and market regulations is likely to be more effective in addressing housing affordability while maintaining a healthy and dynamic property market.
(Word count: 367)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The issue of housing affordability is a big problem in many countries. Some people think the government should control house prices to make them cheaper for everyone, but others disagree. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support government control of housing prices say it can help more people afford homes. If the government sets limits on how much houses can cost, it stops prices from getting too high. This means that people with lower incomes can still buy or rent homes in good areas. It can also stop rich people or companies from buying lots of houses just to make money, which pushes prices up.
However, people against this idea say it can cause problems in the housing market. If prices are controlled, builders might not want to build new houses because they won’t make as much money. This could lead to not enough houses being available. Also, if official prices are too low, people might start selling houses illegally for higher prices, creating a black market.
In my opinion, I think the government should help with housing, but not by directly controlling all prices. Instead, they could build more affordable houses, give money to help people buy their first home, or make rules to stop unfair practices in the housing market. This way, they can make housing more affordable without causing too many problems in the market.
To conclude, while making houses affordable is important, completely controlling prices might not be the best way. Governments should find other ways to help people get homes without disrupting the whole housing market.
(Word count: 272)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows a competent handling of the task, although with less sophistication:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, although some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally well organized, with some use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common words.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with generally good control.
The main differences lie in the depth of analysis, sophistication of language use, and overall coherence of the arguments presented.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Affordable (adjective) /əˈfɔːrdəbl/ – reasonably priced; inexpensive
- Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntərˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation
- Speculation (noun) /ˌspekjəˈleɪʃn/ – investment in stocks, property, etc. in the hope of gain but with the risk of loss
- Distortion (noun) /dɪˈstɔːrʃn/ – the action of giving a misleading account or impression
- Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – a thing that motivates or encourages someone to do something
- Subsidy (noun) /ˈsʌbsədi/ – a sum of money granted to support an undertaking held to be in the public interest
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Transparency (noun) /trænsˈpærənsi/ – the condition of being transparent; openness and accountability
In conclusion, the topic of government control over housing market prices is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. While direct price control may seem like a straightforward solution to housing affordability, it can lead to unintended consequences. Future IELTS candidates should be prepared to discuss alternative approaches to addressing housing affordability, such as government subsidies for public housing, supply-side measures, and targeted assistance programs.
To further practice your IELTS Writing skills, consider drafting an essay on the following related topics:
- The impact of foreign investment on local housing markets
- The role of urban planning in addressing housing shortages
- The effects of urbanization on housing affordability
We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and receive feedback from fellow IELTS candidates and instructors.