Gateway to Homechoice - How It Works
COVID-19 information
From 4 June, some properties will be advertised on the Gateway to Homechoice site.
Some properties might be directly let those who meet the criteria within the Local Lettings Plan.
You can find out more about our lettings in our Choice Based Lettings COVID-19 - Frequently Asked Questions
What happens once I have applied?
Assessment of Need
When we receive your application, we will assess your housing need. This is done in line with our Allocations Policy.
Your application will be placed in one of five bands - A to E, with A being the highest.
You will receive a letter advising you of your banding and the size of property you can bid on.
Bidding for vacancies
Bidding on a property simply means putting your name forward. You do this on our Gateway to Homechoice website.
You can select two properties each week. There is no cost involved in placing a bid.
Adverts include a description of the home. It also tells you:
- how much the rent is
- the size of the property
- Any adaptations or other special features the property might have.
Properties are advertised from midnight on a Wednesday to 11.59pm the following Wednesday. This is called the bidding cycle. You can remove and replace bids during this time.
Properties are offered to the person who meets:
- the criteria in the advert
- and has been in the highest band for the longest time.
You do not need to bid every week.
However if you do not take part, you will limit your chances of being offered a property.
How will I know if it is worth showing an interest in a property?
When you find a property you like, you will see what position you are in. This could change as other applicants place or remove bids. There is no advantage to bidding early in the bidding cycle.
If there is a little chance of being offered that property, you may wish to select another.
If you are not in a high band (A - C), you are unlikely to be successful. You may have to bid on a lower demand property. This could be sheltered accommodation or an area of less demand.
Viewings and refusals
We will offer a viewing to the top three applicants for a property.
You will be told in advance which position you are in. If you are offered a property, you will have 24 hours to make a decision.
Generally, applicants can refuse an offer without penalty.