With just over a week to go until the South Somerset Housing Fair, Housing Officers at South Somerset District Council are urging residents to attend to see the different housing products that are available to individuals, couples and families.
On Monday 28 April, 2-7pm at the Octagon Theatre in Yeovil, residents of South Somerset are able to come along to the South Somerset Housing Fair and visit exhibitors ranging from Housing Association and Property Developers to Financial Advisers, Community Land Trusts, Architects, Fire Service, Police and South Somerset District Council’s Housing, Welfare, Benefits and Environmental teams.
Free and open to anyone, exhibitors will be able to give you guidance; whether you wish to own you own home or rent an affordable home. You may be a first-time buyer, moving up the property ladder, downsizing or wanting to own your own home through a Shared Ownership property, whatever your circumstances there will be advice available for you.
Jo Calvert, Housing Development Officer at South Somerset District Council said, “More than 200 South Somerset residents attended the 2013 housing event, where we had 23 exhibitors on that day. This year we have over 30 exhibitors booked who are able to offer a wide range of advice to residents. Come along and see what options are available to you in South Somerset.”
Councillor Ric Pallister, Portfolio Holder for Strategy and Policy, including Housing at South Somerset District Council said, “Not having a secure roof over your head has a major impact on personal Health and an individual’s ability to gain or hold down a job. When that extends to a family, the consequences are even more far reaching as children struggle to reach their potential at school and the stresses and strains of family life are stretched to breaking point. The value of settled and affordable homes within our day to day lives cannot be overestimated and it has to be affordable. We owe it to all those who are finding difficulty in securing a home in South Somerset, be that to buy or rent and whether they are plumbers or nurses. This Fair isn’t the answer but it is a start.”
Everyone needs a roof over their head and this is why South Somerset District Council is making it a top priority to help people find, afford and keep a decent home. Working with our housing partners, South Somerset District Council will enable new homes to meet the needs of the district; including mixed housing schemes to buy or rent that are affordable. With the average house price running at just over 10 times the average local wage, the demand for affordable housing continues to grow.