Downsizing - Get up to £2,000 to downsize your home
What is downsizing?
Downsizing means moving from a larger home to a smaller one that better suits your current needs. If you have one or more unused bedrooms, you may be under-occupying your property. This scheme helps tenants make the move to a more appropriately sized home while offering financial support.
Why should you downsize?
There are many benefits to downsizing:
- Financial Incentive: Receive up to £2,000 to help with moving costs, new furnishings, or redecoration.
- Lower Living Costs: Smaller homes often mean reduced utility bills and maintenance.
- Better Use of Homes: Free up larger homes for families who need them.
What is the downsizing incentive?
This is a financial reward offered to eligible tenants who choose to move to a smaller property. The incentive is designed to help cover the costs of moving, redecorating, or furnishing your new home. Depending on how many bedrooms you give up, you could receive up to £2,000.
Why have we introduced this initiative?
Mid Devon Housing have launched the initiative to:
- Make better use of available housing by freeing up larger homes for families who need them.
- Supporting tenants who may find their current home too large or difficult to manage.
- Encourage efficient use of housing stock, helping to reduce waiting times for those in need of bigger homes
- Provide financial support to make the transition smoother and more affordable.
The scheme will run for an initial 12 month period, after which is will be reviewed. The scheme started on the 14th July 2025.
How to register your interest
Tenants who are interested in downsizing will need to either fill out an online form on Let's Talk Mid Devon, contact Mid Devon Housing by emailing allocations@middevon.gov.uk or by calling 01884 255255.
Once an enquiry is received, a member of the Allocations team will get in touch to:
- Explain the application process
- Record key details including current property size, desired property size, type and preferred location and any specific needs or requirements.
In line with the Devon Home Choice Policy, eligible applicants will be placed in Band B for downsizing.
Property search and bidding
Tenants that wish to downsize will still need to bid on properties through Devon Home Choice. Automatic bidding can be set up upon request for tenants who may need additional support with this process.
The following rates are applicable:
Downsizing by 1 bedroom: A maximum financial incentive of £1,000 will be offered.
Downsizing by 2 or more bedrooms: A maximum financial incentive of £2,000 will be offered.
Payments will be made once the new tenancy agreement is signed and the moving date is confirmed. Any outstanding recharges will be deducted from the final payment.
Who is eligible?
The scheme is open to MDH tenants who are currently under-occupying their current home in accordance with the bedroom need allocation as stated in the Devon Home Choice policy. The scheme only applies to properties with 2 or more bedrooms. The tenant(s) must have been a resident in their current property for at least 12 months prior to the date of application.