Homefinder Somerset is a ‘Choice-based lettings’ (CBL) system intended to make it easier for you to apply for rented housing and, if you are eligible, to choose between properties that become available.

It covers all 10 Districts in the county of Devon.

A key feature of most CBLs  is that you only need to provide your details (ie. register) once for all or most of the ‘social housing’ landlords in its area. Your needs will be assessed and you will be awarded a ‘priority rating’. Then when properties become available they will be advertised, and you will be able to ‘bid’ for them.

All CBLs advertise properties on their website, and many libraries have computers available for use if you don't have one at home. In most areas the Council ensures that printed lists are also available in libraries and council offices, and sometimes in local free newspapers or newsletters.

Applicants on the housing register can then place bids on properties they are interested in. Bidding rounds typically last either a week or a fortnight. If several people bid for the same property, their relative priority rating will usually determine who is offered the property first. In some areas the length of time you have been registered may also be taken into account.

People who are already tenants of councils or ‘social landlords’ and who want to move (‘transfer’) to a more suitable property will generally have to register with the choice-based lettings system, just like other applicants. However in many areas they will be awarded a higher priority if they want, or are willing, to move to a smaller property.