Under occupiers downsizing incentive scheme
We are offering support and financial incentives to encourage people to downsize their homes.
The incentive scheme is only available to tenants of Reading Borough Council and Affinity Housing. However all social housing tenants in the borough who are under occupiers will get priority on Homechoice.
We want to encourage all tenants in social housing who are under occupying their homes, or living in homes with adaptations they no longer need, to contact their housing provider to find out about any incentive schemes they may be offering.
What incentives are we offering for downsizing?
- Up to £1,000 to help with removal costs and disconnection/reconnection of white goods and flooring
- Decoration vouchers
- You will get £1,000 for each bedroom you no longer need
- Priority on the housing register – you’ll get a higher priority on Homechoice at Reading to bid for a property that better suits your needs
You will get a dedicated officer to support you from the time you get in touch, through the bidding process, your move and beyond. They can offer advice and practical help. Their goal is to make your move as smooth and stress-free as possible.
What are the benefits of downsizing?
- Lower rent and Council Tax – smaller properties tend to cost less to rent and have lower Council Tax bills
- Lower running costs – your energy bills will be smaller
- Fewer rooms to clean, decorate and look after
If your mobility has become an issue there are other benefits:
- Easier mobility – move to a flat with no internal stairs
- Less upkeep
- Community living – sheltered housing for over 55s offers a balance of privacy and community living
What is under occupation?
When you moved into your home, the housing needs of your household will have been considered to decide how many bedrooms you should have. These needs change over time. If you were to reapply for housing now, you may not be considered for a home with the same number of bedrooms. This is under occupation.
Why are we worried about under occupation?
We have a severe shortage of family-sized homes in Reading.
We have more vacancies in smaller properties, especially flats in sheltered housing.
Who can apply?
To be eligible you must:
- Be a secure tenant with Reading Borough Council or Affinity Housing
- Have one of more spare bedrooms
If you have a property with adaptations you no longer need you will be entitled to elevated banding, but not to the cash incentive.
How does Homechoice at Reading work?
To bid for properties you will need a Housing Online account. For help creating an account visit our Housing Online – How to register page.
You can browse the properties that are currently available without a Housing Online account – but you won’t be able to bid on them.
You register to join Homechoice at Reading
We advertise properties online
You let us know which properties you are interested in by bidding on them – we can also bid on your behalf
At the end of the bidding period we sort the list of bidders for each property in order of their priority for housing
If you are top of the list, we will invite you to look around the property
You decide if you want to accept the property or keep on looking. There is no pressure for you to accept a property you don’t like or want.
Can I choose where I move to?
Yes – council and housing association homes in Reading are allocated through Homechoice at Reading. This scheme lets you express interest in the properties that suit you. However, your options will depend on the homes that become available through Homechoice at the time.
Am I guaranteed a move if I apply?
No, a move isn’t guaranteed.
It will depend on:
- the type of property you’re looking for
- the availability of suitable homes through Homechoice at Reading
- how many people are bidding for the same properties
As an under occupier you will be given a high priority for rehousing.
Am I eligible for the downsizing incentive scheme if I move to a housing association home?
Yes – the scheme is designed to support secure Reading Borough Council tenants who are under occupying their homes and want to move to a smaller property. As long as your new home is allocated through Homechoice at Reading you will be eligible.
Can I get the incentive if I swap homes with another tenant?
No – the scheme does not apply to moves made through the Mutual Exchange Scheme.
I’m already registered with Homechoice, can I still apply?
Yes – being registered with Homechoice at Reading does not affect your eligibility. The scheme is open to tenants who are willing to move to a smaller home through the Homechoice system.
Can I change my mind?
You’re free to withdraw your Homechoice application at any time if your plans change.
You can reapply later if you change your mind again.
You can reapply later if you change your mind again.
Contact us
If you would like more information about the downsizing incentive scheme, please contact the Under Occupation and Transfer Officer:
Last updated on 21/01/2026
Under occupiers downsizing incentive scheme