The biggest challenge for Scotland’s next government will be tackling the chronic shortage of houses across all tenures, according to RICS Scotland.

The results of yesterday’s Scottish parliamentary election saw the SNP secure a third term in government but fall short of an overall majority.

Congratulating Nicola Sturgeon, who is likely to become the first elected female First Minister of Scotland, Sarah Speirs, Director RICS in Scotland, said: “Certainty and stability are key to property investment, development and a vibrant economy. We would encourage the new government to be clear on how they will work to deliver that stability, given that they have no overall majority.

“We look forward to working together on the implementation of the SNP pledge to develop a Rural Infrastructure Plan, which has been long called for by RICS. This should have a considered and coherent remit, with sufficient provisions fortransport, energy and broadband connectivity at the fore.”

On the challenge of delivering enough homes for Scotland, Speirs added: “Key to this will be developing plans to swiftly bring back into use Scotland’s 27,000 long-term empty properties. The poor condition of the country’s existing housing stock also needs to be addressed. Through a planned maintenance scheme, which would involve mandatory building condition surveys for tenement properties, more homes will be available to house future generations in Scotland. This proposal could help increase the viable supply of homes, and create and maintain jobs in the construction sector – particularly for SME builders. We look forward to seeing these issues addressed as a priority.”