There are many types of accommodation available for young people, and it's important that you find the right type. The housing you choose to move in to will vary according to your age and financial situation.

• Private renting
• Renting from the Housing Executive or a housing association
• Buying your own place

Private renting

Many young people live in privately rented accommodation. Rented accommodation can be:

• a self-contained flat or bedsit,
• a room in someone's house or flat,
• a shared house or flat with other tenants.

It can be difficult to rent somewhere to live if you are under 18. A landlord can't legally allow you to take up a tenancy. However, you may be able to rent if you are under 18 if someone else takes up the tenancy on your behalf until your 18th birthday.

Renting privately can be expensive. Rent is usually higher than staying in Housing Executive or housing association accommodation. f you're interested in renting privately, visit our new renting subsite which contains advice and information on all the issues you might face.

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Renting from the Housing Executive or a housing association

The Housing Executive has a legal duty to give housing advice and information on preventing homelessness to anyone who asks in Northern Ireland.

If you are aged 16 or over, you can apply for a Housing Executive or housing association house using the selection scheme. It is usually cheaper than private rented accommodation, and you usually won't have to pay a deposit before you move in.

When you put your name on the waiting list, you will be awarded points, depending on your situation. The more points you have, the higher up the list you will be.

You may get extra points if:

• your current home is overcrowded,
• your current accommodation is in a bad condition (for example, it's damp or doesn't have adequate washing facilities),
• you're homeless,
• you're disabled and your current home isn't adapted to your needs.

However, you may have to wait a long time before you are given accommodation.

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Buying your own place

You may want to buy your own home. To buy a house, you'll need a mortgage, and you'll need to be over 18 to apply. A mortgage is a long term financial responsibility, so you'll need to work out your budget very carefully. You may need a parent or guardian to act as your guarantor. You may be able to buy your home through co-ownership.

If you live in a Housing Executive or housing association house, you could have the right to buy your home.

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