Types of affordable housing

There are a number of different types of affordable housing.  This section provides a brief summary of the different types that are available.

Rented Housing

Social rented housing

In Boston social rented housing is owned by Registered Providers, for which guideline target rents are determined through the national rent regime. These are generally significantly lower than a market rented property. The majority of these properties are normally allocated through the Council's Housing Register.

Affordable rented housing

Affordable rented housing is owned by Registered Providers and allocated in the same way as social rented housing to households who are eligible for social rented housing. Affordable Rent is subject to rent controls that require a rent of no more than 80 per cent of the local market rent (including service charges, where applicable).

Low cost home ownership

If you are interested in getting onto the property ladder, there are a number of government home ownership schemes available. 

Shared Ownership

Shared ownership is an affordable way to buy your own home. With shared ownership properties you buy share between 10% to 75% of the homes full market value and then pay rent to a Housing Association for the remainder. Shared Ownership properties are advertised through the relevant Housing Association or search on Rightmove.

First Homes

First Homes provide new homes at a discount of the market value - currently 30%. To be considered you would need to be a first time buyer with a household income of less than £80,000.  Applications are made direct to the Housing Developer. For information on where First Homes will be available, see the Affordable housing developments page.