Housing Help - Trying to move on Universal Credit [Ramsgate, Kent]

[goldenaura234]

Hey, everyone.

I live in Ramsgate, Kent and I'm trying to move to a 2 bedroom house or ground floor flat with my 4 year old who has Autism.

It seems it's really hard to find affordable properties to rent. I'm self employed and caring for my son, do I still go for homes that say 'working professionals only' if I will be on Universal Credit?

Does anyone know of properties in the area available or anyone who could help? Thank you!

Have you checked with the local council housing office? They sometimes keep lists of landlords who accept housing benefit/UC.
Otherwise I'd contact local letting agents and ask if there is any flexibility. Working professionals usually means just that, but if you are looking for a long-term let you might find a flexible landlord.

Do you have anyone who could stand as a guarantor for you?

Hey there!

Yes, I've gotten in contact with the local housing office and I have an appointment with them next week. They did give me a list of properties available but they're not available on the websites themselves, might have to call up agents directly.

No, I don't have anyone who could stand as my guarantor... I think that probably leaves me at a disadvantage. I hope I'll be able to get some help soon... Son starts school in Sep! :(

If you have a list of available properties & are on a tight time schedule, I'd follow those up ASAP. They might not be online but maybe if you call they can maybe email you some photos or arrange a viewing?
That's probably more likely to be successful rather than trying to convince letting agents to accept you if they are specifically asking for working tenants.