Renfrewshire will be a thriving, safe and forward looking community which cares for its people and its environment 
Renfrewshire community plan 2000 - 2010 Leaving home
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Our housing and property services department can provide information on how to apply for a council house, just use the Related Content link on the right hand side of this page. It will give you advice and information for any of your questions you might have. They have also produced an information pack for young tenants that is available from your local neighbourhood office or from any housing and property services reception area.
House hunting
Looking for a house can be a little tricky, do you buy your own house or rent from the council, a housing association or a private landlord. Depending on your circumstances you might get a council house relatively quickly, find out more in the Council housing section using the Related Content menu on the right.
When buying a home, you should get advice from a solicitor and estate agent, who will advise you on how to go about buying a house legally. Although this can be costly, it is advisable.
Before you commit to buy a property you should have a surveyor look it over, which will highlight any problems or potential problems with the property.
Mortgage and finance
Finding money to buy and maintain your new house can be difficult, when you have to consider the cost of your house, any legal fees, council tax, utility bills and maintenance costs.
The BBC website has a mortgage calculator, which could show you what mortgage you can realistically afford.
Financial advice and support
If you are earning a low income you can apply for housing benefit to help you pay your rent. If you think you will be eligible for this benefit, you can apply for it 13 weeks before you move into your new house.
If you already claim income support or jobseeker's allowance, then you should have the application form for housing benefits in the pack you received.
Jobcentreplus gives information on any benefits you could claim for, not just house related. They provide you advice and information on how to go about claiming.
To get an independent prospectus on financial advice and support you can visit the Financial Service Authority (FSA).
