Council launches ‘text a home’ service

Herefordshire Council is making it easier for residents to register their interest in empty homes by 'text' bidding on their mobile telephones.

The Home Point partnership, between the council and a number of local housing associations, has launched a new text line (0778 148 2313) to allow people to bid for properties 24 hours a day, seven days a week and get an immediate confirmation that their bid has been registered.

Home Point manages one central register for all those interested in finding a housing association home in Herefordshire. Everyone accepted onto the register is entitled to apply for the empty homes that are advertised every week.

Jamie Burns, Home Point manager, said: "This innovative service gives residents a faster and more flexible service so that out of normal office hours they have the option of bidding for properties with a text message. The service has only been up a week and we are getting a very positive response - our customers love it.

"It is very easy to use, they just text their registration number, and the property reference from our range of advertised properties, and the bids are processed the following day. It makes us much more accessible and efficient as a service and it frees up more of our time to be able to concentrate on our more vulnerable applicants who need a bit of extra help".

Calls are charged at the standard rate and Home Point does not receive an income from the service.

Home Point recognises that although the service is likely to prove popular it is not for everyone. Residents can still use if they prefer the Home Point website, where they can download an application form to register, browse available homes and apply for properties, or they can phone the service on 01432 359500 or pop into the offices at 135 Eign Street, Hereford.