Alternative Housing Options
Very Sheltered Housing - Jarvis Court, Fraserburgh
Osprey Housing own a Very Sheltered Housing Complex in Fraserburgh comprising of 20 self contained housing units, with care provided in partnership by Aberdeenshire Council.
Osprey hold the waiting list for this complex. For further information on applying, please call Osprey Housing on 01224 548000, or Jarvis Court directly on 01346 511802.
Low Cost Home Ownership
Scottish Government Open Market Shared Equity Scheme
The Open Market Shared Equity Scheme aims to help first time buyers on low to moderate incomes who wish to purchase a home on the open market but cannot afford to pay the full market price for a property.
The following priority groups may apply to the scheme:
- First time buyers
- Tenants of a local authority or housing association
- Members of the armed forces, forces veterans, widows, widowers, and other partners of service personnel
- Disabled people
Applicants pay for the majority share (between 60% - 90% based on their income) with the Scottish Government helping to fund the remainder of the price of the property. There are however limits set on the price of homes that can be bought, based on the size of the property and its location.
The scheme is administered by Grampian Housing Association on behalf of the Scottish Government.
For further information and to apply please visit https://www.grampianhousing.co.uk/new-shared/ or contact the Sales and Leasing Co-ordinators on 01224 202900 or email ownership@grampianhousing.co.uk
Mid Market Rent
Mid-Market Rent (MMR) offers affordable rental homes priced below private rent levels but above social rent. MMR is designed for households on modest incomes who may not qualify for social housing but still find private renting unaffordable.
MMR homes in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire are typically provided by Registered Social Landlords (RSLs) or housing associations. Homes usually come with modern fittings, white goods, flooring, and good energy performance ratings. Eligibility criteria vary but often include employment, age (16+), and income thresholds.
Below are details of some local providers
Let’s Choose (Grampian Housing Association)
One of the largest MMR providers in Aberdeen, Aberdeenshire, and Moray. Offers modern, unfurnished homes with white goods, coverings, and parking. Targets key workers and households earning up to around £40k.
π Website: https://www.grampianhousing.co.uk/lets-choose
π Citylets Profile: https://www.citylets.co.uk/letting-agents-aberdeen/lets-choose/
Sanctuary Scotland
Sanctuary operates MMR homes across Scotland, including Walker Gardens in Aberdeen (2- and 3βbed apartments). Properties include modern furnishings and appliances.
π Website: https://scotland.sanctuary.co.uk/find-a-home/mid-market-rent
Create Homes Aberdeenshire (Aberdeenshire Council)
Offers MMR developments across Aberdeenshire including Stonehaven, Westhill, and Ellon. Homes include flats and houses (1–3 bedrooms) and require an application process via the council.
π Website: https://createhomesaberdeenshire.com/
Castlehill Housing Association – Castlehill Solutions
Provides mid-market homes in locations such as Cattofield Place, Countesswells, Mugiemoss Mews, and Ladeside Place (Inverurie). Targets full-time employed applicants with household incomes £20,000+.
π Website: https://www.castlehillha.co.uk/our-homes/mid-market-housing/
LAR Housing Trust (Local Affordable Rented Housing Trust)
LAR Housing Trust is a Scottish Government delivery partner providing midβmarket rental homes across Scotland, including Aberdeen.
According to Scottish Housing Day, LAR provides MMR homes as part of national affordable housing delivery.
π Website: https://larhousingtrust.co.uk
Hillcrest Enterprises
Hillcrest Enterprises provides MidβMarket Rent homes in Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire, as well as other regions across Scotland. They offer a variety of properties suitable for different household types, including singles, families, professionals, students, and retirees. Their service model includes additional tenant support not typically offered by private landlords — such as free tenancy sustainment advice, benefit and money support, and energy assessments.
π Website: https://hillcrest.org.uk/hillcrest-enterprises/about-hillcrest-enterprises/
π Citylets profile: https://www.citylets.co.uk/letting-agents-dundee/hillcrest-enterprise-ltd-property/
βοΈ Eligibility Overview (Typical, varies by provider)
Aged 16+
In employment or with a job offer
Household income typically £20,000–£40,000 depending on scheme
May prioritise key workers (e.g., NHS, police, council staff)
Must be able to afford rents above social rent but below private rent
(Always check individual provider criteria.)