Some tenants may have the right to purchase their home through a government home ownership scheme.

The scheme available to you will depend on:

  • Your tenancy type.
  • How long you have been a social housing tenant.
  • The type of property you live in.
  • Whether your property qualifies under the scheme rules.

Not all customers will be eligible to buy their home.

Right to Acquire

Many Housing Association tenants may be eligible for the Right to Acquire scheme.

This allows eligible tenants to purchase their home at a discount.

To qualify, you will normally need to:

  • Hold a qualifying tenancy.
  • Have spent the required period as a public sector tenant.
  • Live in a qualifying property.

Additional conditions may apply

Properties That May Not Qualify

Some properties are exempt from purchase schemes, including:

  • Certain adapted properties.
  • Specialist housing.
  • Supported housing schemes.
  • Homes designated for older people.
  • Properties where legal exemptions apply.

We will advise you if your property is excluded.

Things to Consider Before Buying

Owning your home brings additional responsibilities.

As a homeowner you may become responsible for:

  • Repairs and maintenance.
  • Buildings insurance.
  • Service charges.
  • Major works costs.
  • Legal and conveyancing costs.

Before purchasing your home, we strongly recommend obtaining independent financial advice.

Buying an Apartment or Maisonette

If you purchase a leasehold property, you may still be responsible for:

  • Service charges.
  • Communal repairs.
  • Planned maintenance costs.
  • Building management costs.

These charges can vary depending on the work required to the building.

Independent Advice

Buying your home is a significant financial commitment.

We encourage all customers to seek independent:

  • Financial advice.
  • Mortgage advice.
  • Legal advice.
Unity cannot provide financial advice or recommend mortgage products.