Home Purchase and Acquisitions Officer - LBS-008

The role is responsible for the management of a range of schemes for the purchase of properties on behalf of the Council. These include but are not limited to rehousing assistance for regeneration projects, shared equity, shared ownership, equity loans, grant schemes and various other ad hoc projects to increase Council stock.
The Home Purchase and Acquisitions Officer is responsible for financial assessments for potential homeowners and ensuring the smooth transition into their new homes. The role also includes the management of a small shared ownership portfolio including stair-casing and the collection of service charges and rent., 1. To assist in operating the Council's policy on rehousing assistance for homeowners affected by regeneration, contributing and developing procedures to manage and to engage with homeowners; addressing their concerns and seeking solutions to difficulties they may face in relocating and to ensure the transition is as smooth as possible. To process and serve demolition Notices in accordance with legislation.
2. To develop and follow procedures and systems covering the specified areas, including the policy and procedures of financial assessments for customers to determine their affordability in relation to regeneration rehousing and the Council's discretionary purchase schemes.
3. To manage end-to-end processes of the Council's Cash Incentive schemes that enable secure tenants to purchase homes on the open market and the processes of the shared equity, equity loan, and social home buy schemes and stair casing of shared ownership.
4. Management of shared ownership collections portfolio adhering to the Debt Recovery Protocol.
5. Liaising as appropriate with customers and their representatives, other Council departments, the courts and tribunals and professional bodies, representing the Council's interests and ensuring, as far as possible, that the Council's financial and fiduciary position is maintained.
6. Maintaining detailed chronological records of all communications and evidence to support applications.
7. Be the key point of contact relating to the management of schemes with a range of stakeholders including but not limited to internal and external conveyancing solicitors, residential property surveyors, estate agents, external valuers, mortgage lenders, housing solutions, resident services, exchequer services, etc.
8. To administer payment processes within the Council to ensure payments are made in accordance with the financial procedures and within limit of authorising officers.
9. The role requires financial monitoring and reporting to management for all financial transactions in line with Council policy and procedures including the management of the service charges for the shared ownership portfolio.
10. To ensure that all work is completed in accordance with regulations relating to anti money laundering and the detection of fraud.
11. Maintaining knowledge and understanding of relevant legislation to ensure compliance with the Council's statutory obligations.
12. To ensure Southwark Council values maintained; treating residents as if they were a valued members of your own family; being open honest and accountable; spending money as if it was your own; working for everyone to realise their own potential; making Southwark a place to be proud of; always work to make Southwark more equal and just; stand against all forms of discrimination and racism.
13. To assist where required with other administrative duties as instructed by the Sales & Acquisitions Manager., Southwark Council values: Treating residents as if they were a valued member of your own family | Being open, honest and accountable | Spending money as if it was your own | Working for everyone to realise their own potential | Making Southwark a place to be proud of | Always work to make Southwark more equal and just | Stand against all forms of discrimination and racism
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" The Home Purchase and Acquisitions Officer is responsible for financial assessments for potential homeowners and ensuring the smooth transition into their new homes. The role also includes the management of a small, shared ownership portfolio including stair-casing and the collection of service charges and rent. Additionally, the Officer will be required to liaise with internal stakeholders, such as the Housing Development Team, to identify opportunities for new acquisitions and ensure that all property purchases align with the Council's strategic objectives.

The successful candidate will have a strong understanding of the financial aspects of property acquisition, including property valuation and financial modelling. They will also possess excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively with a range of stakeholders, including homeowners, solicitors, and other Council departments. The Officer will be responsible for ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation and Council policies, including those related to housing, finance, and procurement.

Furthermore, the Home Purchase and Acquisitions Officer will be expected to maintain accurate records and prepare reports on the performance of the schemes, including financial monitoring and performance indicators. They will also contribute to the development of new initiatives and projects aimed at increasing the supply of affordable housing in the area.

The person specification is a picture of skills, knowledge and experience required to carry out the job., Experience of working with and supporting residents who require rehousing ideally on regeneration schemes
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Experience of managing a multi faceted workload and be able to prioritise your work and meet deadlines
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Experience of dealing with sensitive issues that residents are facing
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Experience of communicating effectively to a high standard, orally and in writing.
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Experience of writing reports and making clear recommendations, The ability to learn and manage financial issues, in particular, those relating to regeneration packages and home purchase schemes, using a wide range of computer packages including Microsoft Word, Excel and Access to produce reports, tables and graphical information., The ideal candidate will have experience in a similar role, preferably in a local government or housing organisation. They will be able to work independently, with minimal supervision, and prioritise tasks to meet deadlines and targets. Strong analytical and problem-solving skills are also essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.

Evaluated as: HAY Grade 8
Contractual hours: 36 hours, Monday to Friday.

There may be a need to attend meetings on other sites in the borough and on occasions outside the borough. There may be a need to attend some meetings outside of normal office hours.

The employment is subject to a probationary period of twenty six weeks from your start date of employment with Southwark Council, during which time you will be required to demonstrate to the council's satisfaction your suitability for the position in which you are employed.