Exciting times are ahead for The Community Housing Group (TCHG).

Not only are they the biggest social landlord in the Wyre Forest area with approximately 5,500 properties in management but they have come up with a solution to a housing market conundrum - helping low income families who are seeking to buy their own homes onto the property ladder.

"The rise in housing prices in recent years has meant many low or even average income families cannot afford to buy their own home," says director of asset management, Ian Hancock. "We are offering them the chance to buy a 50 per cent stake in a property and pay rent on the rest."

The split equity scheme acknowledges that many people find the early years of paying a mortgage the most difficult. This option allows them to develop the financial disciplines involved with taking on a mortgage without being fully committed to meeting the usual repayment rates.

"They can increase the size of the mortgage as they go along in a process known as staircasing."

THCG is currently refurbishing four properties and a showhome will soon open in Kidderminster. Open days have been arranged at 50 Worcester Road for March 4, 5, 11 and 12 between 10am and 5pm.

"More and more social landlords are moving into share ownership property schemes to help people onto the property market. We want to hear from anybody who may be interested in shared ownership as we hope to have further new and refurbished homes available in the future."

If you would like more details contact shared ownership liaison officer, Suzie Webber, on 01562 733035.

Not that this new development is deflecting TCHG away from their core activity of providing quality social housing across the region. They meet the needs of tenants in a variety of ways, whether it is hiring out community centres for functions or assisting with thorny issues such as anti-social behaviour.

Indeed, they have built up a strong team of skilled trades and grounds maintenance staff including electricians, plumbers, carpenters, painters, decorators and gas fitters who are also now available for external works. The company has its own joinery shop and is keen to expand this area of operation. If you are interested in these services please contact Ian on 01562 732403.

Company

The Community Housing Group

Managers

Director of Asset Management: Ian Hancock

Strategy Marketing Manager: Fiona Law

Business Type

Social Housing

Established

March 2000

Telephone

01526 733000 Fax: 01562 733000

Web Address

www.communityhg.com

Email Address

information@communityhg.com

Location

3 Foley Grove, Foley Business Park,

Kidderminster, Worcs DY11 7PT