Downsizing

If you’re looking for somewhere a little smaller, here’s how you can explore your options and the support that may be available. 

Thinking about downsizing? 

If your home feels too large, difficult to manage or no longer right for your needs, downsizing may be worth considering. Moving to a smaller home could help reduce household bills, make day-to-day living easier or provide a home that better suits your circumstances. 

Homes in Somerset can talk through the options available and explain the support we may be able to provide. However, we cannot automatically move you or guarantee an offer of another home. You will still need to search and apply through Homefinder Somerset or find a suitable mutual exchange through HomeSwapper. 

Find a smaller home 

You can search and bid for suitable homes through Homefinder Somerset or explore mutual exchange opportunities through HomeSwapper. Use the links below to start your search. 

Homefinder Somerset 

Homefinder Somerset is the housing register and choice-based lettings scheme for Somerset. If your application is active, you can search and bid for homes that you are eligible for. Any offer will depend on the Homefinder Somerset allocation process and the availability of a suitable property. 

Mutual exchange through HomeSwapper 

A mutual exchange allows you to swap homes with another social housing tenant, subject to approval from both landlords. HomeSwapper is a national mutual exchange service that can help you search for a potential match. Finding a match does not mean the exchange is automatically approved, so please do not make arrangements to move until you have received formal written permission. 

Financial support for downsizing 

If you are a Homes in Somerset tenant moving to a smaller home, you may be eligible for financial assistance towards the costs of moving. Any support will depend on your circumstances, the eligibility criteria and available budget. Please contact us before making financial commitments so we can explain what help may be available and assess your circumstances. 

Other support we can provide 

We can discuss your housing options, explain the downsizing process and arrange a home visit where appropriate. We can also help you understand what practical support may be available as you prepare to move. 

How the Bedroom Tax may affect you

You may choose to downsize if you are affected by the under-occupancy charge, also known as the spare room subsidy or Bedroom Tax. This may reduce the amount of help you receive towards your rent if you are of working age and are assessed as having one or more spare bedrooms. 

• 14% if you are assessed as having one spare bedroom. 

• 25% if you are assessed as having two or more spare bedrooms. 

The rules can vary according to individual circumstances, including disability, overnight care, fostering arrangements and household members who are temporarily away. If you are concerned about how the Bedroom Tax may affect you, please contact us so we can discuss your circumstances and signpost you to appropriate advice.