In 2006 the Government introduced a new way for tenants to buy their own homes, Social Homebuy. We are able to offer Social Homebuy on many of our schemes, although due to Government restrictions, not all schemes are covered*. Under Social Homebuy existing tenants have the opportunity to buy their current home on a shared ownership basis. This means you buy a percentage of your home (from as little as 25%) and pay a reduced rent on the remainder. As your circumstances improve you can buy more shares in your home right up to 100% at which time you will own your home outright. In addition to this a discount will apply on the valuation price, as with the Right to Acquire scheme, and this is reduced according to the proportion of the property you are buying.

If you wish to join in this scheme you will be responsible for paying all the legal and administration fees and you may also be required to put down a deposit for mortgage purposes. As an owner you will also take on responsibility for your own repairs, maintenance and insurance.

If you are in arrears or if there have been any issues about how you or any member of your family have behaved as a tenant this may affect whether you can buy your home or not.

To find out if your home is eligible for Social Homebuy then contact the Leasehold Department.

*A small number of properties are not eligible for sale through any of our schemes. These are properties designated for older people or the disabled and properties in some smaller rural areas.