HomeOption

What is HomeOption?

HomeOption is a 'choice based lettings scheme'. Homeseekers on our Housing Register can search for available council properties (and housing association properties where the Council has 'nomination rights'). They choose suitable properties from a list of all the vacant homes and 'express an interest' in them (commonly known as bidding or making a bid).

How does it work?

All our vacant homes are advertised on the HomeOption website and in printed property lists. For cost efficiency the Council is advertising its vacant properties with Brentwood, Uttlesford, Chelmsford, Broxbourne and East Herts.

Homeseekers can express their interest in up to three properties in any two weekly cycle. Vacant homes will be offered to the homeseekers who have the highest priority bandings and have been waiting longest.

I'm on the Housing Register, what do I need to do?

You need to look at the HomeOption website, find a suitable property, and put in an "expression of interest".  You can post in a coupon or express an interest by telephone, text, or online. See your HomeOption welcome pack for more details. The pack includes a letter, a user guide and a freesheet. The user guide explains fully how you can find a property and express an interest in it.

Click here if you want to join our Housing Register. The Register is maintained by our Housing Options Section. Our Housing Allocations Scheme sets out the Council's priorities in relation to housing applications, and the procedures to be followed.

Residents with queries on the HomeOption scheme can contact the Council's Housing Options Section:
• By telephone on 01992 564107
• By email to housingoptions@eppingforestdc.gov.uk