Demi’s Story
After living in a home that had become increasingly unsuitable for her young family, Demi decided it was time to explore other housing options. When she contacted Housing Options Scotland, Demi explained that they were currently living in a two-storey property, but two members of the household were unable to access the upper floor. The family needed a level-access home and wanted to understand what possibilities were available to them.
Following an in-depth discussion with their broker, it became clear that Demi had already exhausted her social housing options and would need to wait for a suitable property to become available. Renting privately wasn’t a realistic alternative either, as local rental costs were simply too high.
During their conversation, the broker suggested that future planning for home ownership might be worth exploring. Initially, Demi felt that buying a home was out of reach. After some reassurance, she agreed to speak with a mortgage advisor.
Although purchasing a home isn’t possible right now, the discussion helped Demi and her family see that saving for a deposit could make home ownership achievable in the future. They are now working closely with a mortgage advisor to plan their next steps and build towards that goal.
While they haven’t yet found their new home, Demi and her family are now on a clearer path toward a long-term housing solution. Housing Options Scotland has connected them with the right people to support them every step of the way as they work toward their housing future.
Jerry’s Story
When Jerry found himself with a young baby and the news that his landlord would soon be selling their home, he knew he needed advice and support to find somewhere new to live. By the time Jerry first spoke with his Housing Options Scotland broker, he had already made a homeless application and been offered temporary accommodation. But there was a problem, the offer was for a one-bedroom property, far too small for his young family who actually needed three or four bedrooms.
Our broker quickly realised that something wasn’t right. Despite Jerry telling his housing officer about his family’s needs, his bedroom entitlement hadn’t been updated on his application. Acting straight away, the broker contacted the housing officer to make sure the mistake was corrected.
At the same time, the broker began helping Jerry explore other housing options, to give him the best possible chance of finding a suitable home for his family. Although Jerry hasn’t found the right home yet, he knows he isn’t facing the challenge alone. His broker will continue to work with him for as long as he needs, making sure he gets the right support every step of the way.
Without the help of Housing Options Scotland, the error in Jerry’s application might never have been spotted and he could have continued to receive offers for properties that simply didn’t meet his family’s needs.
Catriona’s Story
When a case of anti-social behaviour became overwhelming, Catriona decided it was time to look for a new home. She reached out to Housing Options Scotland to see what other possibilities might be available. When she first got in touch, Catriona already had a homeless application in place, which meant she had good priority with her local authority. However, she wanted to understand all her options and find a move that would truly suit her needs.
After speaking with her Housing Options Scotland broker, it became clear that sheltered housing could be a great fit for Catriona and her partner. Her broker decided to explore this route further and used their contacts to reach out to local sheltered housing providers to see what might be available.
Before long, one particular property came up and it was perfect. Catriona and her partner quickly made an application and were delighted to be offered the home. They are now happily settled in their new property and deeply grateful to their broker for taking the initiative to contact providers and explore every possible option.
Thanks to Housing Options Scotland, Catriona and her partner were able to move somewhere safe, comfortable, and right for them. A place they can finally call home.
James’s Story
James, in his late sixties, has lived for many years in his much-loved home in an expensive part of Aberdeenshire. The house, now worth around £450,000, holds many memories, but it has become too large for his needs.
Living alone and on a low income, James found it increasingly difficult to keep up with the maintenance and rising utility bills. The house needed upgrading, but he simply couldn’t afford the work. Although he knew something needed to change, the thought of moving felt overwhelming, and he didn’t know where to begin.
When he was introduced to our housing options broker, James admitted he felt stuck. Together, they began breaking things down into small, manageable steps. With the broker’s encouragement, James arranged for a local estate agent to carry out a valuation of his home so he could understand what his home might sell for. He also met with an independent financial adviser to explore equity release, which could allow him to stay in his home while accessing some of its value.
The broker helped James contact Home Energy Scotland for advice on reducing his utility costs and arranged a visit from Care and Repair to tackle some long-overdue repairs. These small actions started to lift a weight from James’s shoulders. For the first time in years, he began to feel in control of his situation.
Thanks to the practical support and reassurance he received, James has now taken the first step towards deciding whether to stay or sell. He feels more confident about his options and knows that, whatever he chooses, he doesn’t have to face the process alone.