Getting started
If you want to start looking for a new private rented home, you should begin by finding out how much rent you can afford to pay each month.

If you are on a low income and think you might struggle with payments, you might be able to claim Housing Benefit to help with your housing costs.

If you’re interested in owning your own home, there are a range of Government Scheme available to help make buying a home more affordable.

If you have small children or a debilitating illness and are at risk of losing your home, pleasecontact the homelessness unit for additional advice.

Finding a home

There are four main ways people look for private accommodation.

1) Via the internet

Sites such as Zoopla Rightmove and SpareRoom will help  you find your next home whether you're looking for an entire flat or house, or just one room. The Southern Daily Echo also has a dedicated property section on its website.

2) Via newspapers

Newspapers such as the Southern Daily Echoand Property Advertiser print local properties that are available to rent.

3) Via word of mouth

Friends and neighbours may know of a property that has recently come on the market. It's worth stating what you're looking for on Facebook to see if anyone is able to help you.

4) Via local estate agents, letting agents

Local agents do the work on your behalf and, if you are on a low income, some will have a list of landlords who accept tenants on benefits.

Help to own your home

With a range of government schemes available to make buying a home more affordable, use the Government's tool to find out which scheme might be right for you.