It's why we're investing in new build housing developments to increase the number of homes available (www.boltonathome.org.uk/new-build-developments), and working to make empty homes ready for new tenants (www.boltonathome.org.uk/empty-properties). We get more than 100,000 expressions of interest for our properties each year and for each home listed, there are on average 50 bids. Therefore, properties are allocated on a needs first basis. Close this message
Apply for a home
This page explains what choice-based lettings schemes are, and how you can use them to apply for homes in the areas we serve. We'd recommend reading the information on this page before proceeding to apply for a home through a choice-based lettings scheme. You can scroll to continue, or tap a button below to jump to a section on this page: 
What are choice-based lettings schemes and how do they work? See our most frequently asked questions on choice-based lettings schemes See our useful resources for new tenants 
I'm ready to apply for a home in one of the areas you serve
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Back to the top Choice-based lettings (sometimes abbreviated to CBL) schemes let you make choices on where you'd like to live based on your needs and preferences. Most CBL schemes are operated by your (desired) area's local authority, meaning they can vary depending on where you'd like to live. Please note that properties from many other housing providers (not just Bolton at Home) are advertised on CBL schemes.
Once a property is closed to bidding, applicants' bids are checked and the property is offered to the applicant that is highest on the priority list. Please remember that you could lose priority 'points' if you reject an offer for a home that you've placed a bid on.
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Who can use choice-based lettings schemes?
New and existing tenants can use choice-based lettings schemes to place bids on properties they're interested in.
I've never used a choice-based lettings scheme. How do I sign-up?
If you'd like to apply for one of our properties, you'll need to register with the relevant local authority's choice-based lettings (CBL) scheme for the area you'd like to move to.
So you can find the right CBL scheme for your area, we've included links to the different CBL schemes for the areas we serve (below these frequently asked questions). Just tap on the relevant area for details.
If your application is accepted and you're deemed eligible, you'll be placed on a waiting list.
You'll then be able to bid for homes that are suitable for you using the local authority's CBL scheme.
How do I apply (bid) for a property?
Look through the available properties on the choice-based lettings (CBL) scheme's website and select the property you wish to bid on. You’ll need to be logged in to place a bid.
You should only bid on properties that are suitable for your size of household. Remember that most CBL schemes will have limits on the number of active bids you can have at any one time.
When you find a property that you’re interested in, we suggest you know or visit the area before expressing an interest and check to make sure you meet the criteria for that property as it may not be appropriate for you.
What if my bid is unsuccessful?
If your bid is unsuccessful, you’ll need to submit a new bid on another relevant property. When you bid, you'll continue to compete with other applicants.
There is no special priority based on the number of bids you've already submitted.
How do I know if I'll be offered a property I've applied for?
If you've been successful in bidding for a property, we (as the housing provider) will contact you by phone, email, or letter, making an initial offer of the property.
It’s important you ensure that your contact details are correct before you confirm your bid on a property. If your contact details aren't up to date, you could miss out on an offer.
You’ll be able to view the property before you accept it.
What checks are made and what references do I need?
If you've been successful in bidding for a property, we (as the housing provider) will be in touch to advise on what we'll need from you before confirming the property is yours.
This could include a reference from your employer, previous landlord, housing benefit form, or other details.
