However, in time, your circumstances change and your home is no longer big enough or suitable for your needs.  Or perhaps you need to relocate due to work or family commitments, or to downsize as it is too big to upkeep.  Other external factors affecting your day to day life can also play a significant role.  Regardless of your circumstances, housing options is the advice service available to all tenants of any social landlord.

We have listed below housing options available to tenants in the Highlands, which allows to explore all possible tenure options.  Please note that not each option is suitable to everyone.  It is also important to understand that a resolution is never instant due to the lack of availability of social housing and that this process takes time and perseverance.

1.    Local Authority and Housing Association Housing

The online housing application can be found here.

Please also check Housing Prospects for supply and demand information in each settlement here.

If you think that you might be at risk of homelessness, you should contact the Highland Council Housing Options Team as soon as possible on 01349 886606.

You will be able to find Highland Housing Register Allocations Policy here.

2.    House Exchange/Swap

House Exchange is a nationwide not-for-profit mutual exchange service for Council and Housing Association tenants.  Registration is free to any tenant of the Highland Housing Register.

To browse or register please click on www.houseexchange.org.uk

3.    Mid-Market Rent

Mid-market rent aims to help people who are working but may not be a priority for Council or housing association housing, who are also unable to purchase a property in the current market and find full market private rent too expensive.

4.    Rent to Buy

Similar to the above scheme, however you will have an opportunity to subsequently purchase it.  More detailed information is available here.

5.    Low Cost Ownership – LIFT New Supply and Lift Shared Ownership

Both schemes allow you to buy an equity share of between 60% and 80% of a property built under the scheme.  The remaining equity share will be held by the Scottish Government. The scheme is funded by the Scottish Government.

For more detailed information please visit:

www.highlandresidential.co.uk also www.gov.scot

6.    Renting from a Private Landlord

The private rented sector in and around Inverness is very varied offering in parts a city flat, a town house or a rural property.  As well as various locations, accommodation on offer can be of different types and size, starting from a bedsit to a flat or a house or shared accommodation, such as a room only.

It gives a better choice and options to households who want to live in a particular area such as a school catchment area, near relatives, near college/hospital.  This option will also allow you to get to know the area first, before committing to buying.  It can also be a short-term accommodation solution, if you are not planning to stay in the area for a long period of time.

Rent levels will also vary depending on the location, size and property type.  You will be expected to pay more for a house with a garage in a prime location of Inverness as opposed to a property located outside of the capital in a rural setting.  Most landlords will want a deposit and rent in advance.

For more information, please visit Housing Options Guide here