Questions & Answers

Q. If I'm on the housing register, will I be offered a property anyway without bidding?

A. No, to be considered for a property applicants must bid for that property when it is advertised.

Q. I'm a Housing Association tenant and I want to move, what should I do?

A. You need to register by completing a Homeseekers application form available from the HomeChoice Property Shop. You will then be able to apply for vacancies when you reach the top of the waiting list.

Q. What if a homeseeker needs help in applying for vacancies?

A. The HomeChoice Property Shop has a dedicated team to provide assistance. We will work closely with voluntary and community organisations to offer a service which is accessible and understandable by everyone. If you have difficulty in bidding or need assistance please contact the Allocations Team.

Q. l have been assessed by EBC as homeless and I am living in temporary accommodation; does this mean I still have to apply for vacancies?

A. Yes, you will need to apply for suitable vacancies. People living in temporary accommodation will be placed either in bands 1 to 3 depending on the type of accommodation they are currently living in.

Q. I would like to move to another area/town to be closer to my family, will HomeChoice assist in this?

A. We plan to develop links with housing providers in other areas of the country, including Private Landlords and people wishing to exchange. However, at present HomeChoice is limited to Eastbourne. If you live in a Council or Housing Association property your Housing Officer will be able to assist you to relocate.

Q. Will HomeChoice mean I move more quickly?

A. Not necessarily, however it will be much clearer how many properties are available and which areas have shorter waiting times. You will be able to make a more informed choice, either to wait for an area you really want or to decide on another area with a shorter waiting time.

Q. Can I bid for a property that is advertised in a different band from mine?

A. Only eligible bids are considered. If an applicant bids for a property of a different size or a different band from their registration details that bid will be considered invalid and will be discarded.

HomeChoice Property Shop
1 Grove Road
Eastbourne
BN21 4TW
Tel: 0800 0852 767
Fax: 01323 431025
Minicom: 01323 415111
Email: homechoice@eastbourne.gov.uk
www.eastbourne-homechoice.co.uk