Landlords in Cherwell are being urged to tap into a scheme offering home improvement grants of up to £15,000.
The Cherwell Bond Scheme, managed by Cherwell District Council, aims to boost the quality and quantity of affordable housing available to renters.
The Landlord Home Improvement Grant is open to all property owners in the area looking to carry out work such as refitting kitchens or bathrooms, making upgrades for energy efficiency, or transforming properties into shared housing.
Landlords are then required to offer these improved homes at affordable rent rates as part of the Bond Scheme.
Councillor Nicholas Mawer, portfolio holder for housing, said: "We are proud to be able to offer those most in need the opportunity to access and obtain a safe roof over their heads.
"This is a great way of supporting people requiring decent accommodation and helping landlords invest in improving the quality of their properties.
"It is an excellent opportunity for landlords.
"Not only will they be eligible for an improvement grant, but they’ll also receive peace of mind as the council will provide support with finding tenants, organising viewings for their property and a deposit bond worth 10 weeks of rent."
The council will also offer ongoing assistance to landlords over the course of the tenancy, which will include guidance with gas and fire safety and a £1,000 one-time payment for a 12-month initial tenancy agreement.
Landlords interested in joining can contact bondscheme@cherwell-dc.gov.uk to find out more.
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