Beijing Removes Suburban Home Purchase Limits to Boost Property Market

Beijing has removed restrictions on the number of homes residents can purchase in suburban areas beyond the Fifth Ring Road, effective August 9, 2025, marking a major policy shift aimed at stabilizing the city's sluggish housing market. This change targets multi-generational families and investors, allowing eligible local residents and non-residents with at least two years of social insurance or tax payments in Beijing to buy unlimited new or second-hand homes in these areas. The easing has already led to a surge in property inquiries and viewings, highlighting renewed buyer interest in suburban properties that accounted for a significant portion of recent transactions. Additionally, Beijing has increased support for housing provident fund loans by raising the upper limit for second-home loans from 600,000 yuan to 1 million yuan and standardizing the minimum down payment at 30 percent, regardless of location relative to the Fifth Ring Road. These measures reflect Beijing’s strategic incremental easing approach to boost demand outside the city core without fueling speculation in central districts, alongside efforts to promote housing affordability and market balance. Overall, the policy adjustments signify the government's determination to invigorate the real estate market amid challenges like declining sales and oversupply.