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Changes

Things have changed with KeyChoice

Since KeyChoice started in September 2007, we have received over 50,000 bids and successfully let around 2,000 homes!

Thanks to your positive comments at the recent KeyChoice review we are introducing some important changes to make the service even better.

From Friday 1^st May 2009 the following changes were applied:-

1. The introduction of a new search field on the KeyChoice website which will search for properties with adaptations, these will include:

1. Wheelchair adapted
2. Walk in shower
3. One level accommodation
4. Stair lift
5. Through floor lift

Any properties that have any of the above adaptations will be highlighted by the red letter , on the web advert and in the news sheet.

2. Members will only be allowed to have one bid each week.

We are hoping that by having one bid instead of two, this will mean that members will bid on the property that they would like to live in, rather than placing a second bid on a ‘back up’ property.

Members will still have the option to change their mind throughout the advertising cycle and move their bid from one property to another.

3. We will be monitoring members who refuse three or more offers within a 6 month period for the following reasons:-

1. Area unsuitable,
2. Fail to respond to offer, or
3. Refused an offer due to ‘personal circumstances’.

These members will be offered guidance and training on how the system works.

4. From 1^st June members will not be able to bid by text using a mobile phone.

This is due to a lack of use of this facility. Since KeyChoice began we have only received 250 successful text bids out of a possible 50,000.

 

Jonathon Howarth, Empty Homes Manager for Pennine Housing says “This service continues to go from strength to strength and is proving a very popular way of acquiring a new home. We have listened to customer feedback and made these changes so everyone can benefit.”