Whether you are looking to rent, buy, or swap homes, we are here to help you explore your options and find the right fit for your needs.
Lettings Overview
In the past year, we let 261 properties across our communities. Of these, 29 homes were successfully matched through Mutual Exchange - a great option for tenants looking to move without waiting on the housing list.
We manage around 3,900 homes for rent or low-cost ownership in over 80 communities across the Highlands. You can view available homes to rent or buy on our website, and our Tenancy Management team is always happy to offer advice and support.
Applying for Housing through the Highland Housing Register
We let our homes to applicants registered on the Highland Housing Register (HHR) - a single, shared housing application system used by:
- The Highland Council
- Albyn Housing Society
- Cairn Housing
- Caledonia Housing Association
- Lochaber Housing Association
- Lochalsh & Skye Housing Association
This means you only need to complete one application form to be considered for housing with any of these providers.
You can apply:
Anyone aged 16 or over can apply, although there may be restrictions for applicants who have recently arrived in Great Britain so, please get in touch if this impacts you.
If you’re looking to rent in Caithness, the process works slightly differently and information on this can be found here:
Looking for a home? This tool can help.
If you’re applying for housing, the Demand and Supply Tool on the Highland Council website is a great way to understand your options. It shows:
- How many homes of a particular size are available in your preferred area
- How many other people have applied for the same type of home
- How many homes became available for allocation in the past year
This information can help you make more informed decisions about where to apply and what to expect.
How the Points System Works
The HHR uses a points-based system to assess housing need. Points are awarded based on your current circumstances - such as overcrowding, medical needs, or homelessness.
When a property becomes available, it is generally offered to the applicant with the highest points who needs that size of home in that area.
How Long Will I Wait?
Waiting times depend on:
- Your points total
- The availability of suitable properties in your chosen areas
- The number of other applicants on the register
You can read more about the Allocations Policy on the Highland Council website
Refusing Offers of Housing
If you refuse a reasonable offer, we will contact you as soon as possible to review your application, try and understand what the reason was and offer advice. If a second reasonable offer is refused, your application may be suspended for 6 months.
Swap, move, settle: your guide to mutual exchanges
If you are thinking about moving but your housing application does not place you high on the waiting list, a mutual exchange could be a quicker and more flexible option.
What Is a Mutual Exchange?
A mutual exchange is when two tenants agree to swap homes. It is a great way to find a property that better suits your needs - whether it is location, size, or accessibility.
You can register for free on:
HomeSwapper – a free platform to showcase your home and connect with potential swappers:
http://www.homeswapper.co.uk
If you need help with your application, our Tenancy Operations Team is here to support and advise you. It’s also worth reading about Housing options on our website for information on important things to consider before a mutual exchange.
Things to Check Before You Agree to Swap
When viewing a potential exchange property, make sure to ask about:
- Rent amount
- Average cost of bills
- Any outstanding repairs
- Location suitability – transport links, parking, local amenities
- Fixtures and fittings – carpets, curtains, light fittings, etc.
If you are considering a move outside Scotland, check what type of tenancy you would be offered. Rights can vary depending on tenancy type. Within Scotland, you will usually receive a Scottish Secure Tenancy, which offers strong protections.
Things to be aware of:
- You cannot offer money or incentives to encourage someone to agree to an exchange.
- You or the other tenant can change your mind before the exchange is finalised.
- Avoid spending money on moving until your new tenancy agreement is signed.
How to Apply
Once both parties agree to exchange, you will need to complete a Mutual Exchange Application Form. You can find this on the Highland Council website.
Your landlord(s) will carry out checks and an inspection before confirming the exchange in writing. You must wait for written approval before going ahead.
