Transfers/Mutual Exchange
My personal circumstances have changed and I would like to move to another property
To move to another property you can do this via a mutual exchange or via the Association’s internal transfer list or by applying to the Common Housing Register in the area of your choice.
What is a mutual exchange?
A mutual exchange is where you and another resident (either an Association/Local Authority or other Housing Association resident) “swap” properties and each take on the other’s obligations of tenancy, including liability for any repairs which do not arise from fair wear and tear. This is subject to certain rules regarding property size, specialist properties and the satisfactory conduct of tenancies. Exchanges can only take place with the consent of both landlords.
How long do I have to be a resident before I can go on the transfer list?
The Association does not have a minimum waiting time before a resident can apply for a transfer, however residents who have rent arrears or outstanding unpaid rechargeable repairs invoices will not normally be considered until they have been repaid and their rent account has not been in arrears for at least 3 months.
I have been on the transfer list for some time but have not been offered a property yet, why?
There are often a large number of residents wanting to transfer and this, combined with the fact that generally there are only a small number of vacancies that become available each year, means there can be a long wait for a transfer, especially for larger properties or areas where the Association only has a small number of properties.
At least fifty per cent the Associations properties on most of developments are designated for nomination by the local council as part of the Common/Joint Housing Register. This is in recognition of the subsidised or free land and/or grant funding that local local authorities have provided to enable the properties to be built. We are unable to offer our own residents transfers to such properties. This does impact on our ability to offer transfers.
How do I find someone to do a mutual exchange with?
There are a number of options available to find someone to do a mutual exchange with, they are:
• Register on House Exchange – a local initiative to bring people wishing to exchange together
• Place an advert in your local press/Free Ads
• Place adverts in your local shops or the shops in the areas you wish to exchange to.
I was registered on Homes Mobility however I have recently been informed that this is no longer available what do I do now?
There are a number of alternatives which require the use of the internet.
http://www.exchangeuk.co.uk (£5.99 for 4 weeks, although you can register as a free user with limited access)
http://www.macpic.co.uk a free forum for anyone wishing to exchange
http://www.exchangeyourhome.co.uk a free website wishing to exchange
http://www.homeswapper.co.uk currently a free website for those wishing to exchange
http://www.usemyplace.com a free website for those wishing to exchange
You can also find further information and advice on http://www.direct.gov.uk/socialhousing