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How we buy property for our tenants – a case study

The Joint Homelessness and Rough Sleeping Strategy 2025-2028 includes the aim of reducing the use of hotels and B&Bs as emergency accommodation by increasing the amount of council properties.

Someon is placing a sold sign over a for sale sign outside a house

What type of property are we looking for?

A variety – from one-bedroomed flats to five-bedroomed family homes.  

As well as value-for-money what are the must-haves when searching for suitable council property?

  • Properties registered with an estate agent, as the agent makes verification checks on sellers and allow negotiations to take place independently.  
  • Location – proximity to healthcare facilities, schools for family homes as well as good public transport links.
  • Adapted properties or scope to adapt for people with disabilities or special needs. 
  • Fixed criteria – as a Registered Provider we must abide by the standards set by the Regulator for Social Housing in England eg properties must be able to reach a minimum Energy Performance Certificate rating of C.

Are there any criteria that would make a property unsuitable for purchase as council property? 

  • Age – its risk of containing asbestos which would be costly for us to manage. 
  • Building type – eg a prefabricated or any other non-traditional constructed house would be unsuitable.  
  • Property with a tenant – this would be counterproductive to reducing levels of homelessness. 
  • Estate charges – an ongoing cost, it would have to be reasonable.  
  • Issues identified during viewings eg loose roof tiles or evidence of subsidence. 
  • A poor survey which could result in high repair and maintenance costs. 

What is the process regarding surveys and other assessments?

As well as standard property surveys, we must undertake additional assessments to ensure they meet the Decent Homes Standard, Housing Health and Safety Rating System (HHSRS) requirements and our Housing Lettable Standard. Property surveyors prepare the documentation required for internal approvals and work closely with our officers in property operations, housing, legal. finance, insurance and risk throughout the process.