You can also apply to exchange or swap your home with another tenant. This could be a tenant of Albyn or another housing association, or a council tenant. Exchanges can be done locally, but they can also help you to move to another area or part of the country altogether. You can advertise for an exchange in your local area (in shops or the local paper, for example). You can also register free with a national exchange scheme called House Exchange.

What you must do first

• You must get our permission and the permission of your exchange partner’s landlord first.
• We will not normally refuse permission for an exchange or refuse to consider you for a transfer.
• But we will need to consider the following things:

• Your move or exchange will not result in our property becoming overcrowded or significantly under-occupied
• You rent account must be up to date and you must have kept your home in a satisfactory condition
• If your home has been adapted or let for a special need (for example, it is a supported tenancy, or has been adapted for a disability), the person you are exchanging with must qualify for it
• If you are doing an exchange, the tenant coming in must accept your home in the decorative state you have left it in, and take on responsibility for any repairs that are your responsibility as well as any alterations or improvements that you have carried out
• We will generally want to speak to you and carry out an inspection before you move
• If you have any questions about an exchange or a transfer or need some more advice, please contact a member of our Customer Services Team.

Mid-Market Rent is a form of affordable housing that allows tenants to pay rent below normal private rent levels in the local area, although rents are higher than what a tenant would normally expect to pay in social housing. Rent levels are usually set at around 85%-100% of the Local Housing Allowance. This scheme is facilitated by Highland Residential.

The Lift (low-cost initiative for first-time buyers) New Supply scheme allows you to buy an equity share of between 60% and 80% of a property built under the scheme. The remaining equity shared will be held by the Scottish Government (no rent is paid on this share) who fund the scheme. This scheme is facilitated through Highland Residential

The private rented sector in the Highlands can offer accommodation of different types and sizes, starting from a bedsit to a flat or a house or shared accommodation, such as a room only. Rent levels will also vary depending on the location, size and property type. 

We would advise you check the landlord is registered. Most landlords require a deposit in advance, you may be able to get help with your rent costs.