If letting was simpler and more affordable perhaps things would change. Property owners won't rent on a long term basis, or 'unfurnished, as that makes it harder to get tenants out. On the other hand, when you get bad tenants getting rid of them is difficult and expensive.
It should not be beyond the wit of any government, even this one' to build houses to let, on a similar basis to that done by housing associations now.
If a way can be found of discouraging people from buying houses on borrowed money, to do them up on borrowed money, to rent out to pay the mortgage, and then sell at a later date, at a vast profit to fund their retirement, then house prices would drop immediately, and financial investmenst would pick up. I've heard of people who won about 5 properties on this basis, who can't afford to pay their everyday debts.
I think a drop in house prices would be a good thing in the long run, don't forget, like price increases, it's the same for everybody!

Giok