What is Kent Homechoice?
How Does Kent Homechoice Work?
- Registration: The first step is to register. You need to complete an application form online, providing details about your household, income, and housing needs.
- Assessment: After registration, your application will be assessed based on the information provided. This assessment determines your priority band, which reflects your housing need. There are several bands, with Band A indicating the highest need and Band D the lowest.
- Bidding: Once your application is approved and you have been assigned a priority band, you can start bidding on properties. Just use your Kent homechoice login and start bidding . Properties are advertised weekly, and you can place bids online through the Kent Homechoice website.
- Allocation: When the bidding cycle closes, the housing provider reviews the bids and allocates the property based on the priority band and waiting time. If you are successful, you will be contacted to arrange a viewing and, if suitable, to complete the tenancy agreement.
Tips for Successful Bidding
- Check Property Listings Regularly: New properties are listed every week. Ensure you check the website regularly and bid within the specified time frame.
- Be Flexible: Broaden your search criteria to include different areas and property types to increase your chances of finding a suitable home.
- Keep Your Application Updated: Notify Kent Homechoice of any changes in your circumstances, such as a change in income or family size, to ensure your application reflects your current needs.
Benefits of Kent Homechoice
- Transparency: The choice-based letting system allows you to see available properties and understand your chances of securing a home.
- Control: You have the ability to choose which properties to bid on, giving you more control over your housing options.
- Support: Kent Homechoice provides guidance and support throughout the application process, helping you navigate the system effectively.
Common Questions
Who is eligible to apply?
To be eligible for social housing, you must have a housing need and meet the residency requirements of the participating councils. Specific eligibility criteria can be found on the Kent Homechoice houses page.
What types of properties are available?
A range of properties is available through Kent Homechoice: houses, flats, and bungalows. The type and size of property you can bid on will depend on your household size and needs.
How long will I have to wait?
Waiting times vary based on your priority band, the availability of properties, and the number of applicants. Higher priority bands typically have shorter waiting times.
Can I apply for multiple properties?
You can bid on multiple properties each week, but you can only place one bid per property. It’s important to bid on properties that meet your needs and preferences.
Conclusion
Kent Homechoice is an essential service for anyone seeking social housing in Kent. By understanding the registration, bidding, and allocation processes, you can navigate the system more effectively and increase your chances of finding a suitable home. Remember to stay flexible, keep your application updated, and regularly check for new property listings to make the most of Kent Homechoice.
For more information and to start your application, visit the Kent Homechoice website.