Right to Buy Overview
The Right to Buy scheme was introduced in 1980 and is designed to help council tenants in England buy their home at a discount. Generally, most properties and residents will have the Right to Buy however there are a few exceptions. In addition, residents and properties must meet eligibility criteria for an application to be accepted.
The exact amount of discount an applicant will receive depends on personal circumstances; however, the discount can be no more than a maximum amount set by the government. As of 21st November 2024, the maximum Right to Buy Discount in the South East of England is £38,000.00.
Residents may qualify for the right to buy if:
- The property is their only or main home
- They have a secure tenancy
- They have held a public sector tenancy for a period of at least three years. A public sector tenancy would have a landlord such as a council, housing association or an NHS trust
- They do not have any legal problems with debt, such as bankruptcy or an IVA
In some circumstances a property may be exempt from the right to buy. These include, but are not limited to:
- Sheltered accommodation or housing considered particularly suitable for the elderly
- Being subject to a Possession Order
- Being subject to Demolition Order
Further information about Right to Buy eligibility can be found in the Governments ‘Right to Buy Could Open the Door’ booklet - RTB Summary Booklet, or by speaking with our dedicated Right to Buy Officer, Karen Moreby, by calling 01233 330 531 or e-mailing leaseholdandrtb@ashford.gov.uk.
Further information about the amount of discount you could receive is available on Gov.uk - RTB Discounts
The Government has announced plans to further reform the Right to Buy scheme, and you can read more about this here - Safeguard Social Housing
Deciding to buy your home is a huge financial commitment. It is therefore important that you take the time to research purchasing and owning a property before applying for Right to Buy.
