(If you think that housing market troubles are solely a US. problem, think again. This article contributed by a UK source....)

A NEW report shows the stark problems facing families struggling to keep a roof over their heads.

The report, compiled by trade body the London Housing Federation, which represents London housing associations, compares all London boroughs.

According to the report, the gross annual income needed for a mortgage for an average home in Bromley is £64,910 (One pound = $1.85US)

However, the average full-time income for a Bromley employee is £23,432 The picture is also bleak in the private renting sector.

Rental on a three-bedroom flat averages at £200 a week, compared with an average weekly net income of £336 for a family with one wage earner.

Bromley has 3,556 households on local authority waiting lists but this is low compared to the majority of London boroughs.

More than 1,000 households are living in temporary accommodation, such as B&Bs.

But Bromley has not lost any affordable housing because of right to buy sales last year.

In fact it has gained more than 1,300 affordable homes.

According to the federation, nearly two thirds of single adults with children in Greater London live in poverty.

Broomleigh Housing Association runs the housing stock for Bromley Council.

Broomleigh spokesman Lisa Louis said: "It is clear there is a need for affordable housing and we are working hard to meet this need."

A spokesman for public sector union Unison said the problem affects key workers who are vital for the Government's agenda on schools and hospitals.

He added: "This problem won't go away. It needs urgent action."

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