My simple solution ( although there is no simple answer to this complex question) is to put a 1% on the landlord for every empty home. After 2 years it goes doubles.

So if your a home owner with a second or even a third home you should be able to cover the cost or at least until you get someone in. But if you happen to own 50 plus over priced properties, you can either lower the price,or sell the house.

Properties should not be investment