Wheatley Homes Glasgow, Scotland’s largest registered social landlord, has initiated a programme to purchase homes across Glasgow to increase the supply of affordable housing. Supported by funding from the Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council, the initiative aims to refurbish acquired properties and offer them at social rent to households in urgent need, continuing until March 2026.

Background and Purpose of the Home Purchase Programme

In response to the ongoing housing shortage and long waiting lists for social housing in Glasgow, Wheatley Homes Glasgow has embarked on a strategic acquisition programme. This initiative is designed to supplement the existing affordable housing stock by purchasing homes directly from owners, including properties not currently listed for sale. Each property acquired will undergo refurbishment before being allocated at social rent, addressing immediate housing needs in the city.

The programme is funded through a combination of Scottish Government resources and support from Glasgow City Council. Specifically, £24 million from an £80 million Housing Emergency Action Plan announced in September 2023 has been allocated to Glasgow to facilitate the immediate purchase of properties for social housing.

Approach to Property Acquisition

Wheatley Homes Glasgow is prioritising purchases in areas where it already manages housing stock, allowing for efficient integration and management of new properties. Owners who choose to sell will receive market value for their homes, with Wheatley offering a clear and supportive transaction process that carries no obligation to proceed after valuation.

This approach provides homeowners with a straightforward option to sell their properties, potentially easing the sales process in a challenging market. The willingness to consider properties of any size or type, including those not publicly listed, broadens the scope for increasing social housing availability.

Statements from Key Stakeholders

Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan welcomed the initiative, stating: “I warmly welcome this new approach taken by Wheatley Homes where, in partnership with Glasgow City Council, they are working to rapidly increase the number of homes available to families and tackling waiting lists.” She highlighted the importance of the £80 million Housing Emergency Action Plan in supporting such efforts.

Aisling Mylrea, Managing Director of Wheatley Homes Glasgow, emphasised the demand for social housing in the city and the organisation’s commitment to expanding supply. She noted: “Thanks to funding from the Scottish Government, we can buy homes which are on the open market or speak directly with owners who are thinking of selling.”

Implications for Landlords and Agents

For landlords and letting agents operating in Glasgow, this programme represents a significant public sector intervention aimed at increasing the stock of social rented homes. The purchase of properties at market value by Wheatley Homes Glasgow may affect local housing market dynamics, particularly in areas where the organisation is active.

Landlords considering selling properties in these neighbourhoods may find this a viable option, given the no-obligation offer process and the assurance of market value payments. Agents should be aware of this development as it may influence client decisions and local property availability.

Additionally, the refurbishment and allocation of these homes at social rent levels will contribute to easing housing pressures for lower-income households, potentially impacting demand patterns in the private rental sector.

How Homeowners Can Engage with Wheatley Homes Glasgow

Homeowners in areas where Wheatley Homes Glasgow already holds stock are encouraged to contact the organisation if they are contemplating selling. After an initial valuation, Wheatley can provide a no-obligation offer, even if the property is not listed on the open market. This direct engagement streamlines the selling process for owners and supports the rapid expansion of social housing.

Looking Ahead: Wheatley’s Broader Housing Strategy

Wheatley Homes Glasgow is employing a multifaceted approach to increase social housing supply. Alongside this home purchase programme, the organisation continues its new build developments and purchases from housing developers. This comprehensive strategy aims to address the city’s housing needs from multiple angles.

Additional Information for Landlords

Landlords and property professionals should note that the Tenant Liaison Association (TLA) is launching a new Trusted Partners Hub in Q1 2026. This platform will feature verified and approved service providers to support landlords, tenants, and property management businesses. Service providers in legal, trades, insurance, financial, mortgage, tenant screening, and related sectors are invited to register their interest at the TLA website.