🏘️ The benefits and drawbacks of different types of tenures in social housing

Social housing is an important part of the housing market, providing affordable and secure housing options to those in need. Different types of tenures offer different benefits and drawbacks, and it is important to understand these in order to make an informed decision about the best option for your circumstances.

Rent-to-buy: This type of tenure offers the opportunity to rent a property at an affordable rate, with the option to buy the property at a later date. The benefits include the chance to save for a deposit and the ability to test out a property before committing to purchase. The drawbacks include the requirement to secure a mortgage in the future and the possibility that the property's value may have increased, making it unaffordable to buy.

Shared ownership: This tenure involves buying a share of a property and paying rent on the remaining share. The benefits include the ability to get on the property ladder with a smaller deposit and the option to purchase a larger share of the property in the future. The drawbacks include having to pay both rent and a mortgage and the need to sell the property when moving, as it is not possible to transfer the ownership to someone else.

Social rent: This type of tenure involves renting a property from a social housing provider at a below-market rate. The benefits include the security of a long-term tenancy and the lower cost of rent. The drawbacks include limited mobility as the property cannot be sold or passed on, and the fact that properties may not be available in desirable locations.

Council housing: This type of tenure involves renting a property from the local council. The benefits include the security of a long-term tenancy, the lower cost of rent, and priority access to council housing for those in need. The drawbacks include limited mobility and the fact that properties may not be available in desirable locations.

It is important to weigh the benefits and drawbacks of each type of tenure in order to make an informed decision about the best option for your circumstances. Factors such as affordability, mobility, and security should be considered, along with any personal preferences or long-term goals. If you are looking for ways to reduce backlogs by resolving issues in innovative new ways, such as  triaging repairs remotely, contact Help me Fix for more information.