Right to Buy isn’t the only choice of low cost home ownership. Lewisham Council works in partnership with registered social housing providers to offer a range of low cost home schemes.
Most secure tenants have the right to buy their homes at a discounted price once they’ve been public sector tenants for a minimum of three years (qualifying period).
The maximum discount for secure tenants living in London is currently £108,000. The discount increases each year in line with the cost of inflation. The exact amount of discount you may receive depends on the market value of your home and the length of time you’ve been a tenant.
The Department for Communities and Local Government has an online calculator that can be used as a guide to help you begin working out the cost of home ownership and the amount of discount you may be eligible for. Please note that these figures are only estimates.
Making the right choice
Please read all the useful documents attached at the bottom of this page to help you make the right choice. You may also find our Right to Buy frequently asked questions helpful.
Becoming a homeowner is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. Our staff can help you with your application and discuss the benefits, costs and obligations of homeownership. Our service is free and we do not receive any commission from mortgage companies or others involved in the purchase of your home.
Please talk to us before signing up with any company who will charge you to help with your application. We have known instances where companies have been very insistent and charge tenants hundreds pounds for the service.
Contact us about applying for the Right to Buy.
Right to Buy Agent Service
The government has set up the Right to Buy Agent service to assist council and housing association tenants who are interested in understanding and taking up the Right to Buy.
They are independent of the Council and Lewisham Homes. They offer free and impartial advice on Right to Buy and their advisers can also help tenants through the process of buying their homes.
Contact a Right to Buy Agent
0300 123 0913 or enquiry@righttobuyagent.org.uk
For more information please go to the Right to Buy website.
Applying for the Right to Buy
To apply for the Right to Buy you’ll need to download the application form (RTB1) from the government’s website, complete it and return it to us.
Once you submit your application we will arrange to meet with you in person before establishing whether or not you qualify.
IMPORTANT: You may no longer receive any improvements to your home once the application is submitted. However, we will continue to carry out all essential repairs and maintenance.
Useful documents
Department for Communities and Local Government Guide: Your Right to Buy your home