The topic of foreign property ownership limits is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam papers and current global trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests. It touches on important issues such as housing affordability, economic policies, and national sovereignty, making it a prime candidate for IELTS essay questions. Let’s explore this topic through a real IELTS question and sample essays at different band levels.

Some people think that there should be a limit on foreign ownership of property in a country. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether there should be restrictions on foreign property ownership. Key points to consider:

1. Understand the meaning of “foreign ownership of property”
2. Consider reasons for and against limits on foreign property ownership
3. Decide your position: agree, disagree, or partially agree
4. Provide relevant examples and explanations to support your stance

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In an increasingly globalized world, the issue of foreign property ownership has become a contentious topic for many nations. While some argue for strict limitations, I believe that a nuanced approach with moderate restrictions is more beneficial for a country’s economy and society.

Undoubtedly, unrestricted foreign ownership of property can lead to several problems. Firstly, it can drive up housing prices, making it difficult for local residents to afford homes in their own country. This phenomenon has been observed in cities like Vancouver and Sydney, where foreign investment has contributed to skyrocketing real estate prices. Secondly, excessive foreign ownership may result in the creation of “ghost towns” – areas with high property ownership but low occupancy rates, as foreign buyers often purchase properties as investments rather than residences.

However, imposing severe limitations on foreign property ownership can also have negative consequences. Foreign investment in real estate can stimulate economic growth by creating jobs in construction and related industries. Moreover, it can lead to urban regeneration and improved infrastructure as developers seek to attract high-end buyers. Countries like Portugal have successfully used programs like the “Golden Visa” to attract foreign investment and revitalize their property markets during economic downturns.

How can governments tackle the issue of rising housing prices in major cities? This question is closely related to the topic of foreign property ownership, as it is one of the factors contributing to rising housing costs. Governments need to balance the benefits of foreign investment with the needs of local residents.

A balanced approach would involve implementing moderate restrictions rather than outright bans. For example, governments could set quotas on foreign ownership in certain areas, impose higher taxes on foreign buyers, or restrict foreign ownership to new developments only. These measures can help protect the interests of local residents while still allowing for beneficial foreign investment.

In conclusion, while concerns about foreign property ownership are valid, a nuanced policy that allows for controlled foreign investment is more advantageous than an outright ban. By striking the right balance, countries can harness the benefits of foreign investment while mitigating its potential negative impacts on local communities.

Foreign Property Ownership Limits Illustration

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of whether there should be a limit on foreign ownership of property in a country is a complex issue. In my opinion, I partly agree that some restrictions should be in place, but I don’t think a complete ban is necessary.

One reason why limits on foreign property ownership might be good is that it can help keep house prices affordable for local people. When rich foreigners buy lots of properties, it can make prices go up too much. This has happened in some big cities around the world. Also, if too many foreigners own houses but don’t live in them, it can create empty neighborhoods, which is not good for communities.

However, foreign investment in property can also bring benefits to a country. It can help the economy by creating jobs in construction and other related industries. Some countries have used foreign property investment to help their economy grow, especially during difficult times.

I think the best solution is to have some rules about foreign property ownership, but not to ban it completely. Governments could put extra taxes on foreign buyers or limit how many properties they can buy. This way, countries can still get the benefits of foreign investment while protecting local people’s interests.

In conclusion, while there are good reasons to limit foreign property ownership, a total ban would not be the best solution. A balanced approach with some restrictions is probably the best way to handle this issue.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

I think there should be some limits on foreign ownership of property in a country. This is because it can cause problems for local people.

One problem is that when foreigners buy many houses, it can make houses too expensive for local people to buy. This is not fair for people who have lived in the country all their life. Another problem is that some foreign buyers don’t live in the houses they buy. This can make some areas feel empty and not nice to live in.

But foreign buyers can also help a country. They bring money into the country and this can be good for the economy. They might also fix up old buildings and make them look nice again.

I think the government should make some rules about foreign buyers. Maybe they could make foreign buyers pay extra taxes or only let them buy certain types of houses. This would help local people but still let some foreign buyers buy houses.

In conclusion, I agree that there should be some limits on foreign ownership of property, but not a complete ban. This would be the best way to help local people and still get some benefits from foreign buyers.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position and well-developed ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organized with a clear progression of ideas and effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures used accurately with only minor errors.

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task but some aspects are more fully covered than others.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally well organized with some use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Sufficient range of vocabulary for the task with some inaccuracies in word choice.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors that do not impede communication.

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses the task but the format is simple and development is limited.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization is present but not always logical.
• Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary with some errors in word choice.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures with frequent errors, but meaning is generally clear.

Key Vocabulary

1. Foreign ownership (noun): The holding of property rights in one country by individuals or entities from another country.
   Pronunciation: /ˈfɒrɪn ˈəʊnəʃɪp/

2. Contentious (adjective): Causing or likely to cause disagreement or argument.
   Pronunciation: /kənˈtenʃəs/

3. Nuanced (adjective): Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
   Pronunciation: /ˈnjuːɑːnst/

4. Skyrocketing (adjective): Rising or increasing very steeply or rapidly.
   Pronunciation: /ˈskaɪrɒkɪtɪŋ/

5. Urban regeneration (noun): The process of improving deprived areas in a city.
   Pronunciation: /ˈɜːbən rɪˌdʒenəˈreɪʃən/

6. Quota (noun): A fixed minimum or maximum number of a particular group allowed to do something.
   Pronunciation: /ˈkwəʊtə/

7. Mitigating (verb): Making less severe, serious, or painful.
   Pronunciation: /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪtɪŋ/

Impact of Foreign Investment on Real Estate

Conclusion

Understanding how to approach the topic of foreign property ownership limits is crucial for IELTS Writing Task 2 success. The sample essays provided demonstrate different levels of performance, from a basic response to a well-developed argument. When practicing, focus on:

1. Clearly stating your position
2. Providing relevant examples and explanations
3. Using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures
4. Organizing your ideas logically

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

• The impact of foreign investment on local economies
• Government policies to address housing affordability
• The pros and cons of globalization in the property market

Remember to time yourself and aim for at least 250 words. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!