The role of the Housing Association

Most Housing Associations will work closely with people to help them own their own property. This support could include:

• Obtaining funding from the Government.
• Managing the selection process.
• Helping to find properties as well as negotiating the purchase price and managing the process with the seller’s agents if necessary.
• Buying the property and creating a Shared Ownership lease that includes repair and maintenance as appropriate.
• Carrying out minor repairs and improvements to the property.
• Liaising with local authorities/care professionals to ensure that care and support is in place for the move.

Once the homeowner has moved in the Housing Association may make regular visits to provide additional help, support and advice.

Some Housing Associations will also:

• Monitor housing benefit payments and liaise with the Benefits Agency if required.
• Carry out more extensive property repairs and maintenance.
• Keep in contact, especially in the first few weeks of home ownership, to make sure the homeowner has settled in.

Not all Housing Associations will offer all of the above support and services. It is important to establish from the outset how much help will be given.