Owning your home
Owning your home can give you more independence and long-term security.
There are different ways to become a homeowner. The right option for you will depend on your needs, finances and support network.
On this page you can find information about different options.
Before making any decisions, speak to your family, social worker, Leaving Care Worker or another trusted professional who can help you understand your options.
Inheriting or using a family property
Some young people continue living in a family home as adults.
This might happen because:
- you inherit a property from a family member
- a family member gives you a property
- part of a family home is adapted or extended so you can live more independently
This option can provide stability and help you stay connected to family, friends and your local community.
Things to think about
If you own a property, you will usually be responsible for:
- paying household bills
- arranging insurance
- maintaining the property
- paying for repairs
- managing any legal responsibilities linked to ownership
Planning ahead can sometimes be difficult, especially if a property may be inherited in the future. Getting independent financial and legal advice can help you and your family understand your options.
Home Ownership for people with Long-term Disabilities (HOLD)
The HOLD scheme helps some people with long-term disabilities buy a home through shared ownership.
You buy a share of a property and pay rent on the remaining share.
You can choose from suitable properties that are available on the open market within your budget. A specialist HomeBuy Agent through the housing association can help you through the process.
Things to think about
You may still have costs such as:
- mortgage payments
- rent on the share you do not own
- service charges
- maintenance costs
If you work now or plan to work in the future, it is important to get advice about how your income could affect your housing costs and benefits.
Find out more about the HOLD scheme on GOV.UK and through your local HomeBuy provider.
Other things to consider
Disabled Facilities Grants
If you are disabled, you may be able to get help with the cost of adapting your home.
A Disabled Facilities Grant can help pay for changes such as:
- installing ramps
- widening doorways
- adapting bathrooms
- improving access around the home
The grant is available whether you own your home or rent it, although different conditions may apply. Find out more on help to adapt your home.
Looking after your home
Owning a home means you are responsible for repairs, maintenance and household safety.
Some jobs are simple, but others may need a qualified tradesperson. It is important to use reputable contractors and get advice before agreeing to any major work.
You may be able to get support from Somerset Independence Plus (SIP). The service can provide advice about home repairs, safety improvements, adaptations and equipment that could help you stay safe and independent at home. Depending on your circumstances, they may also be able to help arrange certain maintenance and improvement works.
Priority services register
Whatever housing option you choose, it is important to think about what would happen if you lost electricity or water.
If you rely on electricity or water because of a disability, health condition or medical equipment, you should join your utility provider’s Priority Services Register. The register is free and helps utility companies identify customers who may need extra support. This includes people who use medical equipment that needs electricity or water, have a long-term health condition, need information in an accessible format or would find it difficult to cope with a loss of supply.
Being on the register can help you get:
- advance notice of planned power cuts
- extra support during unplanned interruptions to your electricity or water supply
- information in accessible formats such as large print or Braille
- help if you have communication or accessibility needs.
You should contact your electricity supplier, water company, and phone or internet provider to ask about joining their Priority Services Register.