Traditionally, affordable housing was built and managed by councils. However, over the last fifteen years or so the emphasis has changed considerably with the role of councils moving from providers of new accommodation to enablers. Generally, the main route for introducing new affordable housing is thorough Registered Social Landlords (RSL's) often referred to as Housing Associations.
Definition of Affordable Housing
Affordable housing is subsidised housing available to people who can not afford to rent or buy houses generally available on the open market. This includes rented accommodation provided by a local authority or a RSL together with houses at prices or rents above those of social rent but below market prices or rents.
It has been determined that for a home to be affordable the household should not pay more than 25% of their net income in rent or mortgage payments.
The main different types of affordable housing are;
Social rented accommodation - Rented accommodation is provided by an RSL. The rent is set by reference to a government formula. Tenants are known as 'assured tenants'. If you would like to enquire or apply for social rented housing you can contact the Home Options team at WLDC on 01427 676676 or e-mail home.options@west-lindsey.gov.uk
Shared ownership (New build Homebuy) - This provides an opportunity for applicants to purchase a share in their home of generally 50% and then pay a rent to the provider (again generally a RSL) on the remaining 50%. The owner can in most circumstances staircase up and purchase larger shares in the property. The owner can sell on their percentage share if they wish to move with the remainder going back to the RSL. For more information on other Housing Associations with properties in the West Lindsey area click here
For more information regarding new affordable housing opportunities in West Lindsey call the housing department on 01427 676676.
EM Homebuy
Below is a link to the EM Homebuy website. The EM Homebuy service has been designed so that anyone looking for an affordable home within Lincolnshire will only need to fill in one application form to gain access to homes from all relevant housing associations and private developers.
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