From Hong Kong to London, first-time buyers need government help
Hong Kong's starter home scheme aims to help young families get on the housing ladder but concerns have been raised about its affordability. Households must have a monthly income of between HKD52,000 ($6,700) and HKD68,000 to qualify. By comparison, couples in Singapore can withdraw money from their mandatory Central Provident Fund to fund a house purchase, while first-time buyers of public-sector flats can also receive government subsidies. Families in Shanghai can also draw from a compulsory saving scheme. In the UK, the Help to Buy scheme offers state loans to first-time buyers who need pay only a 5% deposit.

Securing a foot on the housing ladder may be a struggle for many in Hong Kong, but they are not alone in their plight