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HOUSING SERVICES

Tel: 08450 450 051

Mon - Sat: 8.00am - 8.00pm (except Bank Holidays)
Fax: 01954 713148
Email: duty.housing@scambs.gov.uk

Address, directions & map

CASH INCENTIVE SCHEME

The Cash Incentive scheme assists Council tenants to become homeowners by way of a cash grant. This releases homes for other families on the housing waiting list.

How Do I Qualify?

• You will have been a secure tenant for a minimum of two years
• You will have a clear rent account
• You will live in a property which could be used to accommodate others in housing need

Grants will be awarded on a first come, first served basis. If you are unsuccessful this year, it is possible the Council will run the scheme in future years.

When making an application you must show that you cannot afford to buy a suitable property on the open market without the assistance of a cash grant from the Council.

You will be asked for full details of your income and any savings or investments you may have. In making our financial assessment, up to £3000 of any capital will be disregarded.

How much grant is available?

• The minimum grant is £20,000 which will be payable to qualifying tenants who have held a secure tenancy of between 2 and 5 years
• An intermediate grant of £25,000 is payable to tenants who have held a secure tenancy for between 5 and 10 years
• The maximum grant of £34,000 is only payable to tenants who have held a secure tenancy for 10 years or more

What type of property can I buy?

• The property must be suitable for your household needs and be located in the United Kingdom
• The purchase price should not exceed £173,500
• However there may be exceptions to this limit depending on individual circumstances and at the Councils discretion

What happens next?

It will be up to you to find a property and provide details to the Council, together with an acceptable Home Buyers Survey.

You must also supply evidence of a mortgage offer on your chosen property; which should be arranged through a UK Building Society or Bank.

If your claim is successful you will need a solicitor to handle the Conveyancing.

The deeds to your new home will include a condition stating the circumstances under which grant may be repayable to the council. This condition will only come into operation if you sell your house within 3 years of the purchase. Full details of the liability to repay part or all of the grant, will be explained to you upon application.