The diversity in Sussex one of its main attractions, from the rolling hills of the South Downs to the miles and miles of sunny coastline – perfect for water sports with conditions ideal for sailing and windsurfing.  Sussex also boasts a rich history including ancient castles, a roman palace and the famous “1066 Country” in Battle, Hastings. For those seeking a more vibrant city life, Sussex can offer a real cosmopolitan and urban lifestyle in cities such as the cathedral city of Chichester to the West, Brighton and Hove, often referred to as “London By-The-Sea, and the historic town of Lewes in East Sussex. Brighton in particular, known for its art and cultural diversity, attracts around 8 million visitors each year.

Sussex has generally high living standards and good economic prospects. Communications to London, the rest of the UK and to Europe are excellent, with good rail links, a major international airport and many seaports.

Moving to Sussex

Moving house can be an exciting but sometimes stressful experience.  Despite the South East being above the national average for house prices, there are many towns and villages that offer good value across the region.   The following websites provide information on houses to rent or buy in Sussex:

www.rightmove.co.uk

www.primelocation.com

www.propertyfinder.com

www.fish4.co.uk

To check average house prices in this area click here:

 www.ourproperty.co.uk

If you are moving to the area you may wish to notify organisations of your new address using the website www.iamoving.com 

Links to :  Direc.gov.uk – moving to your new house

http://www.direct.gov.uk/en/HomeAndCommunity/BuyingAndSellingYourHome/SellingYourHome/DG_10018035

Search for estate agents in Sussex in Thomson Directory

http://www.thomsonlocal.com/BusinessFinder.aspx?phrase=estate+agents&where=sussex

To find out more about moving to the area (inks to West Sussex County Council, East Sussex County Council, Brighton and Hove City Council).West Sussex County Council

http://www.westsussex.gov.uk/ccm/navigation/community-and-living/

East Sussex County Council

http://www.eastsussex.gov.uk/community/

Brighton and Hove City Council

http://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/index.cfm?request=a3

Help with Accommodation and Low Cost Home Ownership

Key Worker Report - Living and Working in the South East

Getting on the housing ladder can be difficult for many people – especially in today’s climate. There are a range of low cost home ownership initiatives and renting options in Sussex.  Many schemes are subject to funding and to eligibility. Homebuy is a government programme which aims to help people who wish to buy a property but cannot afford to. From May 2008 all first time buyers with a household income of less than £60,000 are now eligible to apply for HomeBuy schemes. There are a number of different schemes available such as shared equity and shared ownership. 

Shared Ownership Schemes work on a part-buy/part-rent basis offering the opportunity to buy what you can afford now so you don't overstretch yourself financially. It also allows you to increase the stake you own in your property when you can afford to do so. Shared Equity Schemes are where you purchase a property by paying a percentage of the purchase price through a mortgage and the remaining share is paid for through a shared equity loan with a low monthly interest.  The loan is then redeemed when the property is sold.  Applicants can also purchase more over time until they own outright.

Moat is the appointed HomeBuy agent in Sussex and they coordinate all the affordable home ownership in the South East. Moat also compile a register of the people who are interested in shared ownership and will pass your details on to the other housing associations, so you can be informed of any new schemes as they become available. Discounted Rent– This scheme is predominantly for key workers, giving them the opportunity to rent a newly built home at a discounted rent.  If you are not a key worker and are interested in social housing, you can contact your local authority and apply to be on their housing register. There are other schemes available including re-sales where existing shared owners wish to sell their property and Social HomeBuy where housing association tenants can purchase a share in their rented home.

Details of all the schemes currently available can be found on www.homebuy.co.uk.