With support from Scottish Government funding, the partners have already purchased 51 homes on the open market to help address the local housing emergency.

The council and Barrhead Housing are keen to hear from homeowners considering a move. Sellers can benefit from offers up to Home Report value from a chain-free cash buyer, with no estate agent fees and no need for multiple viewings. The partners will also work to the seller’s preferred timescales, helping to make the process as straightforward as possible.

Housing and Environment convener, Councillor Danny Devlin, said: “Our aim is simple - to increase the number of affordable homes available to local people. I’m pleased with the progress we’ve already made, with more than 50 properties purchased through this initiative.

“This is one of several measures we’re taking in response to the local housing emergency declared in 2024. If you’re thinking about moving home, we could be the ideal buyer. Our teams can offer a straightforward and supportive selling process, so I’d encourage anyone interested to get in touch.”

Barrhead Housing chief executive Lorna Wilson said: “This innovative partnership initiative with the local authority and Scottish Government has proved very popular.

“We are keen to keep the momentum going and hope more potential house sellers will see the value of our uncomplicated, transparent, fair, and low-cost selling process. The initiative is an important part of our joint response to the housing emergency in East Renfrewshire and our combined efforts to increase the supply of social housing.”

Homeowners interested in finding out more can contact David Leaf at david.leaf@eastrenfrewshire.gov.uk or Barrhead Housing at Scotts@barrheadha.org.

This joint campaign forms part of the strategic agreement the council and Barrhead Housing committed to in 2025. It formally recognises how the two providers will work together to increase and improve housing supply and services, contribute to regeneration, provide support for the most vulnerable, and progress carbon reduction.