The Home Choice Scheme offers people at risk of homelessness the opportunity to move directly into good quality private rented homes, helping them avoid homelessness and long stays in temporary accommodation.
We work closely with private landlords and prospective tenants to make sure every tenancy begins smoothly and is supported for the long term.
Why work with us?
As a landlord, working with us provides financial security, practical support, and the reassurance of a dedicated team.
Landlord incentives
We offer landlords incentives to make the whole process as smooth as possible, including:
- No Fees, No Obligations: We do not charge fees and you have no obligation to accept any potential tenants we refer to you. We strive to match potential tenants to the properties they want, as we believe that happy tenants will be good tenants.
- Rent in advance: We can provide rent in advance to support a smooth start to the tenancy.
- Flexible Incentives: In some circumstances, we can offer additional incentives tailored to your property or situation.
- Cash or Bond Deposits: We can offer either a cash deposit, or a guaranteed Bond underwritten by us. The advantage of a Bond is that it does not have to be registered under the Tenancy Deposit Protection Scheme, which can be both costly and time-consuming in the event of a dispute.
- Dedicated and Helpful Staff: We have a team of qualified staff who specialise in different areas of expertise.
- Tenancy Agreements: We can signpost landlords to legally compliant tenancy agreements.
- Legal Advice: Our Private Rented Sector (PRS) Team can offer guidance on legislation, best practice, and landlord responsibilities.
- Expert Advice on the Renters’ Rights Act: We stay up to date with the latest changes in the Renters’ Rights Act and can provide clear, practical advice to help you understand your obligations and remain fully compliant.
- Fast Turnaround of Properties: Due to the diverse nature of our client base, we are always looking for a wide variety of properties in all areas of Oxford and the surrounding areas. We can supply potential tenants very quickly, minimising costly void periods. If you have properties that are hard to let, we may have a potential tenant for you.
- Universal Credit: If clients receive Universal Credit housing element, we can offer support to ensure that rent is paid on time.
- Continued Tenancy Support: Our Sustainment Team provides continued support throughout the tenancy, helping resolve issues early and promoting long term, stable tenancies.
- Longer‑term, stable tenancies: Offering peace of mind for landlords and tenants alike
General conditions for landlords
To take part in the Home Choice Scheme, landlords are asked to meet the following basic requirements:
- Proof of Ownership: Provide evidence that you are the legal owner of the property.
- Minimum Health and Safety Standards: Ensure the property meets all required health and safety standards before a tenancy begins.
- Up to Date Safety and Energy Certificates: All mandatory certificates (including gas, electrical, EPC and any others required by law) must be valid, regularly maintained, and issued in a timely manner.
- Valid Selective Licence or HMO Licence: Where applicable, the property must hold the correct licence.
- Safe and Secure Property: The property should be secure, well-maintained, and all fixtures, fittings and equipment must be in good working order.
- Current Contact Details: Provide up to date contact information so we can reach you quickly if needed.
- Early Access for Preparation: Allow reasonable early access to the property so we can prepare for the tenant’s arrival.
- White Goods Safety: Any white goods included with the property must meet required safety standards and be in safe working condition.
Get in touch
Please complete our Private rented sector new landlord instruction form if you are a landlord interested in renting a property through the Home Choice scheme:
Private rented sector new landlord instruction form
Alternatively, you can call us on 01865 252501.
More information
Stay up to date with Private Rented Sector changes - visit the Guide to the Renters’ Rights Act on GOV.UK.
