Renting from a private landlord

good if you need to move quickly

gives you flexibility and choice

usually furnished

can be expensive (unless you share)

need cash up front for deposit + 1 month rent

many landlords don't like renting to people on benefits

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Flat sharing

brings rent and bills down significantly

can be a good way to make friends or have companionship

you need to choose who you live with carefully

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Renting from council or housing association

cheaper rent

rent paid fortnightly - no need for a deposit

priority given to homeless households

can wait over 2 years

single people usually offered a bedsit

unfurnished

you can stay as long as you like (if you pay your rent)

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Moving to an area of low demand (outside of London)

some councils and housing associations willing to let homes to people from London

they're mostly in North and Midlands

can have greater choice and no need to wait for a long time

might be a means of starting afresh

agencies in London can help you explore this option

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Buying a home on the open market

offers you choice and flexibility

very expensive in London

also need deposit plus money for solicitors fees etc.

need to earn at least £35,000 to buy a flat in London

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Buying through a low cost home ownership scheme

reduces the cost of buying

schemes operated by councils and housing associations

usually lower cost by allowing you to buy only part of the home

need to earn about £20,000 to buy a home in London through one of these schemes

targetted at 'key workers' such as teachers or nurses, or those high on council waiting list

high demand for LCHO

may have to wait some time for an offer

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Hostels

different types, but usually offer single rooms with shared toilets and bathrooms

not usually intended for long stays

rents vary, but generally at least £100 per week

usually staff on-site 24 hours a day

either meals provided, or there are shared kitchens

can often help you with next housing move as well as other advice or support needs

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Jobs that provide accommodation

can give you a home, job and maybe new friends

can be a good way to check out a new area

you lose your accommodation if you lose your job

opportunities include: pub or hotel work; nanny and au pair jobs; jobs in NHS

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