Mortgage advice for buying your council home.

How the discount works.

How much you save depends on how long you've been a secure tenant, whether your home is a house or a flat, and the region you live in. Your discount is a percentage of the market value, up to a maximum cash amount set by the government. Those maximum discounts were reduced in November 2024, and in the East Midlands the cap is currently £24,000. The figures change from time to time, so we always check the latest position on GOV.UK and confirm exactly what applies to you.

Eligibility basics.

• Tenancy length

  You need to have been a public sector tenant, usually a council tenant, for at least 3 years. It doesn't need to be continuous or in the same property.

• Type of tenancy

  Must be a secure tenancy, not temporary, probationary, or introductory. Your tenancy agreement will specify this.

• Your main home

  The property must be your primary residence, not a holiday home, not a property you sublet to someone else.

• Housing association tenants

  Right to Buy mainly applies to council tenants. If you rent from a housing association you may still qualify, usually through Preserved Right to Buy (if your home transferred from the council) or the Right to Acquire, which gives a smaller discount. We'll help you find out which applies to you.

Things worth knowing before you start.

• The process takes time

  Six to twelve months from claim to completion is common. We help you stay on track throughout and flag anything that might slow things down.

• Repairs become your responsibility

  Once you own it, maintenance is on you. Factor this into your affordability planning, a building survey before you commit is often worthwhile.

• Not every lender does Right to Buy mortgages

  We know this market well and which lenders will work with your specific situation and discount level.

• Standard rates apply

  No premium for buying through the scheme. You get the same mortgage rates as any other applicant, the discount is yours to keep in full.

Common questions.

• Can my Right to Buy discount count as my deposit?

  Often, yes. Many lenders accept the discount in place of a cash deposit, which means you may be able to buy with little or no savings. Some lenders still like to see a small personal contribution on top.

• How long do I need to have been a council tenant?

  You'll usually need at least three years as a public sector tenant to qualify. The years don't have to be continuous, and they don't all have to be in your current property.

• Can I sell the property later?

  Yes, but timing matters. Sell within five years and you'll repay some or all of the discount. Within ten years, you must first offer the property back to the council or a local social landlord before selling on the open market.

• What if my credit isn't perfect?

  There are lenders who take a pragmatic view, particularly with a healthy discount behind the purchase. An honest conversation first, then we find the right fit.

Start your Right to Buy journey →

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.