Scheme summary

There is a huge demand for affordable housing and it is vital we look at different ways of increasing the supply of homes to help meet this need.

We have set out ambitious plans to improve and expand our housing stock in North Lanarkshire. In addition to our new build programme, the open market purchase scheme allows us to buy homes in areas where there is demand for that type and size of property.

The scheme also allows us to progress plans for our tower re-provisioning programme by letting us purchase a number of private homes in existing tower blocks earmarked for demolition.

Through the open market purchase scheme, we can also help bring empty properties back into use that have been lying empty or derelict for a considerable period of time. It also helps us progress with common refurbishment works within mixed-tenure blocks of flats for the benefit of our tenants. 

Due to its success, the scheme has been extended. If you are a private, registered landlord in a high-demand area or own the only private property in a block of flats where all other flats are owned by the council, we may now be able to buy your property from you and subject to certain criteria you may also be able to remain in your home / your tenant may be able to remain in the property and become a council tenant. 

How it works

This scheme enables the purchase of properties that are for sale on the open market or are about to go on the open market, some of which are often former council houses purchased through the Right to Buy. 

The main criteria set against the purchase of homes on the open market would be:

• There is demand for the type and size of property in that area.
• The combined cost of buying the property and bringing it up to letting standards would represent value for money to the council.
• Where the purchase of a property will enable the council to take complete, or majority, ownership of blocks of flats making communal repairs much easier to complete.
• Homes purchased would meet the particular needs of households not currently available in the council stock, for example homes suitable for people with disabilities.
• The property must be sold with vacant possession and be empty at the time of completion (unless otherwise agreed on the basis of the extension to the scheme).
• The seller must have made their own arrangements for re-housing (unless otherwise agreed on the basis of the extension to the scheme).
• We cannot accept properties where a tenant would have to leave the property to enable a sale.

Benefits of applying through the Open Market Purchase Scheme

No:

• estate agent fees
• chain
• viewers - only one visit from a surveyor
• need to decorate for selling
• obligation to accept if we make an offer
• home report is required *please note - a home report is required for landlord applications

How to apply

Please complete the Open Market Purchase Scheme online application form (below).

The information you provide us with will be used to assess your application. We will then contact you to let you know if your property meets the criteria.

If you are unable to complete our online form please email CouncilBuyBack@northlan.gov.uk