LANDLORDS in West Devon are being offered financial incentives to offer their properties to local families in a bid to head off the area’s housing crisis.

West Devon Borough Council has unveiled a new website to make it easier for local landlords to find out how they can let their homes for less and still make a profit.

The website has been launched by SeaMoor Lettings, the ethical lettings agency run by the council in partnership with South Hams District Council. Officials hope this will help more local people access private rental properties at an affordable price to alleviate the current shortage. Both councils have declared a housing crisis.

SeaMoor Lettings is part of SeaMoor Homes, an ethical estate agency run by South Hams District Council.

Cllr Barry Ratcliffe, West Devon’s housing lead member said: ‘Over the last couple of years, local rents have spiralled out of the reach of many local people including those doing some of the most essential jobs in our communities, such as care support workers.

‘It means that some people on lower wages have to move out of the area. As a result, there is a local shortage of people available to work in these important roles, including care, retail and hospitality. I appeal to anyone who has a property they rent out in West Devon to get in touch. By joining us, you will be helping to make sure these local people serving their community can still afford to live here and provide us with the services we need – together we can help our communities to thrive.’

Landlords and anyone looking to rent a property can visit www.seamoorhomes.co.uk.