Propertymark Past President standing for Reform UK

Past President of ARLA Propertymark, Maxine Fothergill is standing for Parliament in Thursday’s General Election, in the constituency of Old Bexley and Sidcup.

The seat is a Conservative stronghold which has been represented by Louie French who won the 2019 election with a majority of nearly 19,000 and 64% of the vote.

Maxine (main picture, right) is also owner and Managing Director of Amax Estates and Property Services, based in Gravesend, Kent, which she set up in 2002.

Commenting on her bid for Parliament, she said, “Having lived in Bexley for 30 years, where my children attended Hurstmere School in Sidcup, my journey in politics has evolved from a dedicated Conservative councillor to an independent voice – and now to a passionate parliamentary candidate for Reform UK.

Farage

She says her political passion was reignited at a GB News event hosted by Nigel Farage. “Encouraged by community leaders, friends, and family, I decided to re-enter politics with Reform UK, driven by a mission to tackle the pressing issues facing our nation.”

With Reform UK, I see a path to addressing the critical issues our nation faces.”

‘With Reform UK, I see a path to addressing the critical issues our nation faces – like the staggering NHS waiting lists, uncontrolled immigration and the housing crisis, to name but a few. These are not just political talking points; they are realities that affect each of us every day.

“The current political landscape, dominated by traditional parties, calls for a new approach—one that I am ready to bring to the table with Reform UK.”

Housing policies

On housing Fothergill outlined Reform UK’s policies:

• Review the Planning System: Accelerate planning with tax incentives for brownfield development.

• Reform Social Housing Law: Prioritise locals and contributors over foreign nationals for social housing eligibility.

• Scrap Section 24 for Landlords: Support smaller landlords by allowing deductions for finance costs.

• Revise the Renters’ Bill: Enhance the enforcement process to address renters’ grievances effectively.

• Protection for Leaseholders: Facilitate cheaper and more accessible lease extensions and freehold purchases.

• Incentivise Construction Innovation: Promote modular construction and digital technologies to improve efficiency.

Marking her anniversary of 25 years as a landlord, Maxine published a book, How To Become A Successful Property Investor. She has trained over 6000 delegates in property management and compliance. She was President of ARLA Propertymark in 2021-2022.