If you are a tenant of a Council or Housing Association property, you could be eligible for up to 40% towards the price of a property through the Scottish Government’s LIFT (Low Cost Initiative for First Time Buyers) Open Market Shared Equity (OMSE) scheme.
How does the scheme work?
The Scottish Government pays between 10% and 40% towards the price of a property you have chosen on the open market.
Example: the property is worth £100,000 and you can afford to contribute £70,000 (through mortgage/ deposit). The Scottish Government could contribute 30% (£30,000). When the property’s sold, 30% of the sale price would be returned to the Scottish Government.
You own the property outright and can increase your equity share over time.
Can I apply?
Current tenants of Council or Housing Associations can apply to the scheme, even if not a first-time buyer. Visit Link Housing website for a full list of eligible groups.
What property can I buy?
The property must be:
- Advertised for sale publicly e.g. on an Estate Agent’s website.
- The correct size for your household.
Priced within the maximum threshold for the area. Angus thresholds:
An apartment is a habitable room including; bedrooms, living rooms, dining rooms and box rooms. Kitchens, bathrooms and conservatories are not classed as apartments.
How to apply?
Visit Link Housing website to find out more and apply online.
Angus Council Housing News 