If you're looking for a home there are lots of different options to think about. Here are some of the common ones you might come across.

Rent a home: social housing

This used to be known as council housing. It’s affordable rented housing usually provided by councils and housing associations. You need to be on your council’s housing list to qualify for social housing

Rent a home: affordable rent

Affordable rent was introduced as a government initiative in 2011. It allowed organisations such as housing associations to let their properties at rents of up to 80% of the average private sector rent in the area.

Rent a home: market rent

Market rent homes are homes let on the open market, usually by private landlords. Some housing associations also offer market rent homes. Market rent means paying in full the amount your landlord charges for your rent.

Buy a home: outright sale

Buying a home outright usually means getting a mortgage. Speak to a financial adviser for more help. 

Buy a home: shared ownership

Shared ownership lets you part-buy/part-rent a home. It’s a great way to buy your first property and get on the housing ladder. Find out more about Soha’s shared ownership opportunities. 

Swap a home

If you live in social housing (see above) and have a secure or assured tenancy with Soha, you can swap or exchange your home with another Soha resident, or a tenant from another housing association or council.

You cannot swap with somebody in private rented accommodation.

Find out more about how to swap if you live in a Soha home. 

Homes for the over 55s

We offer several options for older people looking for housing. Find out more about what we can offer you if you’re an older resident. 

What to do if you’re homeless

Every local council has to provide help for people who are homeless (or who will become homeless within 28 days). The level of help you’ll get will depend on your situation.

If you are homeless (or are about to become homeless) go to your local council housing office. Make sure you take some ID with you to prove your age and nationality.

The national housing charity, Shelter has lots of information about what to do if your homeless. Shelter also has a free helpline: 0808 800 4444.