Right to Buy (officially known as the House Sales Scheme) allows eligible Housing Executive tenants to buy their home at a discounted price.
Once you have been a secure tenant for at least five years, you may have the right to purchase your property, provided it meets the scheme’s criteria.
Many buyers use a Right to Buy mortgage, where the discount reduces the amount they need to borrow — and in some cases removes the need for a cash deposit altogether.
Are all properties eligible?
Not all Housing Executive properties qualify for Right to Buy. Some homes are excluded because they may be needed for future housing needs.
- Sheltered housing.
- Properties within group housing schemes.
- Single-storey or ground-floor houses (not flats) with two bedrooms or fewer.
- Homes specially adapted for people with disabilities.
How is the Right to Buy price calculated?
Your home will be assessed by an independent valuer, who determines what it would sell for on the open market.
Your Right to Buy discount is then deducted from this market value to calculate the final purchase price.
If you disagree with the valuation, you can request a formal revaluation through Land & Property Services. Their decision is final and may increase or decrease the value.
How much discount are you entitled to?
The discount you receive depends on how long you’ve been a tenant.
- 20% discount after the first 5 years of tenancy.
- An additional 2% for each extra year.
- Maximum discount of 60% or £24,000 (whichever is lower).
If you’re buying 100% of the property, this discount can significantly reduce the mortgage you need.
Who can apply for Right to Buy?
You may be eligible if:
- You are a secure Housing Executive tenant.
- You have lived in the property for at least five years.
- You intend to live in the property as your main residence.
Up to four people can apply jointly, but at least one applicant must be the legal tenant.
Can I apply if I have rent arrears?
Yes. Having rent arrears does not automatically stop you applying for Right to Buy.
However, the purchase cannot complete until any outstanding rent or Housing Executive debts are fully cleared.
Who is not eligible?
- If legal action is being taken to repossess the property.
- If you are a squatter.
- If the tenancy does not meet the minimum qualifying period.
What happens if you sell later?
Right to Buy comes with restrictions if you sell your home after purchasing it.
- If you sell within five years, you must repay the full discount.
- If you sell within ten years, the Housing Executive has the first option to buy the property back.
You cannot sell until the Housing Executive confirms they do not wish to repurchase the property.
Do I need a mortgage to buy?
Many Right to Buy purchasers use a mortgage to fund the purchase, even with the discount applied.
Not all lenders offer Right to Buy mortgages, and each lender has different rules around:
- Accepting the discount as a deposit.
- Property type and construction.
- Affordability and credit history.
Why get mortgage advice for Right to Buy?
Applying to the wrong lender can delay your purchase or even cause it to fall through.
A mortgage broker can:
- Confirm whether Right to Buy is the best option for you.
- Match you with lenders who accept Housing Executive properties.
- Ensure the discount is treated correctly.
- Guide you through the full process from start to finish.
Thinking about buying your Housing Executive home?
If you’re considering Right to Buy, getting advice early can save time, money, and stress.
Speak to one of our mortgage brokers today for free, no-obligation advice. We’ll assess your eligibility, explain your options clearly, and help you secure the right mortgage.