Rentplus offers a way for working people to get on to the housing ladder through affordable rent to buy. We’re thrilled to be working closely in partnership with the Winchester Housing Trust to give local people the chance to move from being renters to homeowners, without needing large deposits other tenures require to move in.
Our virtual tour video below will show you the one and two bedroomed apartments at Eagle House.
How does Rentplus work?
Tenants move in without a deposit. They pay a discounted rent for a minimum of 5 years (at 80% of the open market rent), giving them time to build a good credit rating, and save towards their home purchase. With agreement from Winchester Housing Trust, tenants may choose to extend tenancies to rent for up to 20 years but have the option to purchase 100% of their home after 5, 10, 15 or 20 years: this will be agreed at the start. When ready to purchase, tenants are given a 10% gifted deposit from Rentplus towards their deposit.
About the properties
Our Rentplus homes in Eagle House are either one or two bedroomed apartments. Your landlord will be Winchester Housing Trust whilst you rent. They will be responsible for repairs to the property as set out in your tenancy agreement whilst you are renting. The rents are set at 80% of the local market rate, and this figure has been agreed by the council.
Rent
The rent for the One Bed is £760 and the two bed is £920. This is not negotiable. It represents 80% of the equivalent of private rental rates in the area. The minimum rental period is 5 years. This can be extended to a maximum of 20 years. Residents will need to demonstrate that they are aspirant home owners, and look to save money each month towards their purchase. You will be offered the first chance to buy after 5 years.
Am I eligible?
These are rent-to-buy homes: applicants must be working and have aspirations to buy their own home within a 5, 10, 15 or 20 year period. As agreed with the local authority, priority will be given to those who can demonstrate a local connection to the area; however this does not mean you will not be considered if you do not have a local connection. Our Rentplus properties will be advertised on Hampshire Home Choice, a lettings system that allows social housing applicants to bid for their property of choice.
How do I apply?
Once you have completed the virtual viewing, you will be asked to complete an application form which you can find here. You will need to provide details of income and other personal information. This will allow the first stage of the assessment to be completed. We will then set up a virtual meeting with you and Winchester Housing Trust where you will be able to ask questions about the scheme. We would like you to review the virtual show reel of the property and think about whether you want a one or two bedroomed apartment.
If you are ready to apply for a property you can download an application form here: WHT Rentplus Application Form.
Please complete the form, sign and return to:
Winchester Housing Trust
Westgate Chambers
Staple Gardens Winchester
Hampshire
SO23 8SR
If you don’t have access to a printer please email [email protected] or phone us on 01962 790588 and we will post a form to you.
Data will be held in compliance with GDPR.
If you have questions in the interim, you can send them to [email protected]
COVID-19 UPDATE: In line with the latest government guidelines we have made initial virtual tours available for property viewings. Those looking to move home can still attend property viewings. Households are allowed to move home as long as they are doing so safely and removal firms can continue to work.
