Lewisham is at the perfect point for people wanting to move into the borough - both 'up and coming' yet still affordable.
Property prices in Lewisham, unlike those in most other London boroughs, are still affordable for the average household. Last year the average house price was £258,726 compared with £433,622 in Greenwich, £429,445 in Lambeth and £461,268 in Southwark.
Property buying assistance
Despite Lewisham's relatively low property prices, everyone could use a little help now and again with their finances. This is why key workers such as social workers and occupational therapists, are now eligible for the Government’s Key Working Living housing initiatives.
This government-backed scheme is helping to keep the skills we need in our Council. If you are a key worker, you could get help to buy your first home or to move into a family home. Opportunities are also available to rent homes at affordable prices.
There are a number of different schemes to suit a range of housing options. To find out if you can get help and how to apply, you need to contact the zone agent that covers the Lewisham area. Telephone: 0845 300 2820.
Residential advice
Lewisham can offer support and advice for social workers looking for accommodation in the area if you need help - call Charles Barnard on 020 8314 8893. Advice is available on an individual basis by request.
UNITE housing
When you have been working hard caring for others, you want a place where you can sit back and unwind in comfortable and pleasant surroundings, a home that's welcoming, with all the little extras that make living independently convenient and relaxing. UNITE specialises in providing great value quality housing for key workers in London, and directly in Lewisham too.
The accommodation is fully furnished with extra touches like en-suite facilities, fully fitted kitchens and private phonelines. Their accommodation is protected by 24 hour CCTV, intercom controlled door access and sophisticated fire alarms. The properties are managed to provide you with a hassle-free way of living, with a 24 hours customer service centre and property manager. For more details call 0845 111021.
Lewisham Homesearch
Lewisham Homesearch is a self-selection lettings scheme which has been developed in partnership with all the main Registered Social Landlords in Lewisham.
To participate in Lewisham Homesearch, you must be on either the Council's housing list or one of the housing associations' transfer lists.
To get on the Council's housing list, you need to fill in a housing application form. These are available from local housing offices or from Access Point in Catford.
Housing Corporation
The Housing Corporation have details of registered social landlords who run other low cost homeownership schemes for people who cannot afford to buy a home. You can get information about such schemes by calling the Housing Corporation on 020 7393 200 for the phone number of your local office.