Homes are generally let for a minimum of five years .
You must demonstrate you can afford the rent while simultaneously saving for a deposit.
You typically rent a new-build property at 80% of the local market rate (inclusive of service charges). rent to buy uk government
Standard Rent to Buy is available everywhere except London.
There is currently no direct "Rent to Buy" equivalent; check alternative schemes like the Open Market Shared Equity Scheme. Rent to Buy Schemes UK - April 2026 | Uswitch Homes are generally let for a minimum of five years
You must be a "working household" in full or part-time employment.
Known as London Living Rent , where rents are set at roughly one-third of average local household incomes. Standard Rent to Buy is available everywhere except London
You usually have the "first option" to buy the home after an initial rental period (often two years). You can buy the home outright or via Shared Ownership. Core Eligibility Criteria