Kaite Campbell, Author at hhainverness

New housing development completes in Balloch, Inverness

Highland Housing Alliance (HHA) has now taken handover of 12 semi-detached properties at the site. These two- and three-bedroom homes will be offered at mid-market rent (MMR), with rental rates positioned between social housing and open market rents. This tenure is designed to support those who may not qualify for social housing but are priced out of the private rental sector.

Delivered by local contractor IBI Joiners Ltd, the development is part of a joint initiative between HHA and The Highland Council to expand access to affordable housing across the region. The site offers a mix of homes for MMR and low-cost home ownership, supporting the Council’s commitment to meeting diverse housing needs.

The development was funded by a Scottish Government grant totalling £7,363,000, with the remainder funded by The Highland Council, Inverness and Highland City Region Deal, and Highland Housing Alliance.

The Highland Council will provide 33 properties for Council Rent, comprising four two-bedroom wheelchair accessible bungalows, 13 family homes ranging in size from two to four bedrooms, and 16 one- and two-bedroom cottage flats. The eight flats on the ground floor have all been designed to be wheelchair accessible. A further four semi-detached three-bedroom family properties are offered for sale via the Scottish Government’s LIFT Low Cost Home Ownership Scheme, administered on the Council’s behalf by Highland Residential.

Located within the popular and established Balloch community, the development enjoys excellent access to local amenities, including a leisure centre, schools, and public transport, making it a well-connected and desirable location for individuals and families alike.

All homes have been built to a high specification, with open plan living and dining areas, modern fixtures and fittings, and bright, attractive interiors. Each home benefits from private garden space, and the wider development features thoughtfully landscaped communal green areas that enhance the sense of place and community.

The first residents will begin moving into their homes from 26 June.

Gail Matheson, chief executive at HHA, said: “The delivery of these new homes in Balloch marks an important milestone in our mission to provide more accessible, high-quality housing across the Highlands. Our strong and long-standing partnership with The Highland Council plays a key role in making this possible, helping us to deliver a diverse range of housing that reflects the needs of different age groups, income levels, and family situations across the region.”

Cllr Glynis Campbell Sinclair, chair of The Highland Council’s Housing and Property Committee, said: “I am delighted that The Highland Council, working in partnership with Highland Housing Alliance and Highland-based builders and contractors, has successfully delivered the first phase of this much-anticipated housing development in Balloch. The new properties are located in a sought-after area of Inverness and provide a welcome addition to the Council’s commitments to provide sustainable and energy-efficient affordable social rental homes.

“Equally, the diverse range of property types and sizes included within the development makes these homes suitable for those with additional accessibility needs, in addition to families and individuals.

“The Highland Council, as part of its commitment to meeting the Highland housing challenge, will continue to work collaboratively alongside partners to build a portfolio of housing stock to enable people to have viable options available to them.”

Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan said: “Housing of the right type in the right place, can have a transformational impact. The delivery of these high-quality, energy-efficient, affordable homes will support people to stay in the communities they grew up in, as well as help local businesses to retain and attract employees.

“The Scottish Government is pleased to have supported this development with more than £5 million in grant funding, and we will continue to work with partners to increase the delivery of more affordable homes. This is all part of our work to deliver 110,000 affordable homes across Scotland by 2032, with at least 70% for social rent and at least 10% in our rural and island communities.”

Non-Executive Directors

Make a lasting impact on housing across the Highlands.

Non-Executive Directors
Highland Housing Alliance
Inverness
£7500 p.a.
1.5 days/month

Highland Housing Alliance (HHA), a not-for-profit housing developer, is seeking up to four new Non-Executive Directors to join our Board. This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking organisation delivering high-quality Mid-Market Rent and private rented homes across the Highlands.

Since our inception in 2005, HHA has delivered over 470 MMR homes and continues to expand, with 177 more scheduled for completion in the coming year. Our developments provide essential accommodation for local workforces and are vital to the region’s economic and community resilience. We are proud to lead in urban regeneration too, breathing new life into disused buildings and turning them into attractive, modern residences.

As a Non-Executive Director, you will bring independent oversight, support the development of organisational strategy, and help ensure robust financial and risk management. You will offer constructive challenge to the executive team, act as an ambassador for HHA, and play a key role in guiding the organisation through its next chapter of growth and innovation.

We are particularly keen to hear from individuals with experience in finance, audit or risk, or those who have knowledge of housing and property markets—particularly within the Highland region. However, we welcome applicants from all professional backgrounds who are able to bring a collaborative, strategic and analytical mindset to board discussions. First-time NEDs are encouraged to apply; full induction and support will be provided.

The role requires a commitment of approximately 1.5 days per month and includes attendance at four board meetings, an AGM, and two development days annually. A remuneration of £7,500 per annum is offered, alongside travel and subsistence expenses in line with HHA’s policies.

If you are passionate about housing and want to be part of a team making a meaningful difference in Highland communities, we would love to hear from you.

For a confidential discussion about the role, please contact Nigel Fortnum or David Currie at Aspen People on 0141 212 7555 or [email protected]

Blog: Barbecue Safety

Nothing says summer quite like a barbecue: whether you’re cooking for one or hosting a small gathering, barbecuing can be a great way to enjoy the warmer weather. But with open flames and high temperatures, it’s important to follow safety guidance, especially in shared spaces.

Choose the right spot
Always place your barbecue on a flat, stable surface away from fences, sheds, trees and buildings. Never barbecue on balconies and avoid using grills near open windows or under canopies. For those in flats or developments with communal areas, be sure to check if barbecues are allowed.

Keep it supervised
Never leave a lit barbecue unattended. A small flare-up can quickly become a dangerous situation. Make sure children and pets are kept at a safe distance, too.

Use the right equipment
Charcoal barbecues should be lit with firelighters or barbecue starter fuel, never petrol or paraffin. For gas barbecues, check gas connections before use and turn off the gas cylinder when you’re finished.

Dispose of coals carefully
Once it has cooled completely, wrap the used charcoal in foil and dispose of it in your general waste bin – never in recycling or garden waste. Avoid disposing of hot coals in bins, as this is a common cause of fires.

Be considerate to neighbours
Use dry charcoal and clean grills to minimise smoke. If you’re playing music while you cook, keep the volume reasonable and stick to daylight hours, especially in close-knit communities.

Keep water nearby
Just in case, always have a bucket of water, sand or a fire extinguisher to hand when using a barbecue.

Blog: Garden Care in the Summer

As the days get longer and the temperatures start to rise, now is the perfect time to give your garden and lawn some much-needed attention after the winter months. Whether you’re a keen gardener or just looking to keep your outdoor space neat and welcoming, here are some simple ways to prepare your garden for spring.

Tidy up and clear debris
Winter can leave your garden looking a little worse for wear, with fallen leaves, broken branches, and other debris scattered across your lawn and flowerbeds. Start by raking leaves, removing dead plants, and clearing any clutter to give your outdoor space a fresh start. This also helps prevent pests and diseases from taking hold.

Lawn care: a fresh start
Your lawn may look a little tired after the colder months, but a few simple steps can bring it back to life. Begin by raking away any dead grass and moss, then aerate the soil to improve drainage and encourage healthy root growth. If your lawn has bare patches, now is a great time to reseed. A light feed with a suitable lawn fertiliser will also help encourage strong, green growth.

Prune and trim
Pruning is essential to keep shrubs and trees healthy and looking their best. Cut back any dead or damaged branches and shape hedges for a tidy appearance. Early spring is also the right time to prune roses and certain perennials, encouraging new growth and better flowering in the months ahead.

Refresh your flowerbeds
If you have flowerbeds or pots, give them a little boost by turning over the soil and adding compost or fertiliser. This replenishes nutrients and improves soil structure, helping plants to thrive. Spring is a great time to plant hardy perennials, herbs, and early flowering bulbs like daffodils and tulips if you didn’t plant them in autumn.

Plan for colour and interest
Consider adding some spring-flowering plants to brighten up your garden. Primroses, pansies, and crocuses bring an instant pop of colour, while evergreen shrubs provide year-round interest. If space is limited, hanging baskets and window boxes can be a great way to add greenery.

Think about wildlife
Encouraging birds and bees into your garden not only helps the environment but can also make your outdoor space more enjoyable. Bird feeders, bee-friendly plants, and a small water source like a shallow dish can attract beneficial wildlife.

By taking a little time now to prepare your garden, you can enjoy a beautiful and welcoming outdoor space throughout the warmer months. Whether you have a large garden or just a small patch of green, these simple steps will help make the most of your home’s outdoor space this spring.

HHA and Tulloch partnership delivers more MMR homes to Inverness

Leading developer of mid-market rent (MMR) homes across the Highlands, HHA, has strengthened its partnership with Tulloch Homes, part of the Springfield Group, in a deal that will create 10 new rental opportunities in Inverness.

A collection of two- and three-bedroom homes at Tulloch Homes’ vibrant new Parks View development will be handed over to HHA on completion in 2026 and will be available at MMR. These homes offer tenants access to high-quality, affordably priced rental accommodation that is typically below private market rent levels.

Ideally located between the sought-after communities of Inshes and Milton of Leys, the wider Parks View development features 155 sustainable homes set within landscaped green spaces.

The strategic partnership between HHA and Tulloch Homes is delivering a mix of housing tenures at flagship developments across the Highlands. Established in 2024, the partnership has resulted in more than 100 MMR homes either completed or agreed at locations in Inverness, Conon Bridge, Aviemore and Kirkhill.

The latest deal has been supported with funding from the Scottish Government, The Highland Council and The Inverness and Highland City Region Deal.

Gail Matheson, CEO, HHA, said: “Access to affordable, high-quality housing remains a challenge in the Highlands, and partnerships like this are essential in helping to meet demand. By working with Tulloch, we can provide homes that offer long-term stability for individuals and families who may otherwise struggle to find suitable accommodation.

“This new collection of MMR homes provides local people, including essential key workers, with greater choice to live and work in the area. By helping retain vital skills in the region, we’re supporting both economic growth and the long-term wellbeing of our communities.”

Kieran Graham, managing director of Tulloch Homes, said: “With the Highlands set for significant economic growth driven by the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport and ambitious infrastructure projects, the demand for quality housing will only but continue to grow.

“Tulloch has been part of Highland communities for over 100 years, and while the landscape has evolved, our commitment to deliver high-quality homes that meet the real needs of local people has remained steady. However, it is not just about building more homes, it’s about delivering a mix of tenures that are accessible to everyone. Our partnership with HHA is a great example of how collaboration can realise this.”

Blog: Spring into the garden

Inverness primary pupils design Homes of the Future

As part of local developer HHA’s 20th-anniversary celebrations, pupils from Ness Castle Primary School have been tasked with designing the homes of tomorrow.

The not-for-profit developer invited over 200 students from the school to envision how homes might look in 2045 and beyond. The young designers were encouraged to incorporate key elements such as sustainability, accessibility, and community impact into their creative submissions.

A total of 203 entries were received, with some pupils opting to hand-draw their futuristic homes, while others used arts and crafts to bring their designs to life in truly imaginative ways. The HHA team judged the entries, awarding one winner from each year group.

Every winner received a £50 voucher and to further support the school, HHA donated £2,000 of funding for Ness Castle to purchase furniture and equipment to enhance their playground and outdoor space.

The winners included:

Primary 1 – Elenor McBride, who brilliantly incorporated sustainable power sources into her design, and Fahkr Gillani, who crafted an innovative home featuring bee houses.

Primary 2 – Archie MacLeod, whose design included a roof garden and space for growing produce, and Kalina Zawadka, who built a home using recycled bricks.

Primary 3 – Olivia Liston, who designed a stylish home complete with a disco ball and tree house, and Blake Pollock, who envisioned an accessible home made from natural materials.

Primary 4 – Edward Rabey who integrated advanced futuristic technology, and Sophie Lyall, who designed a dog-themed house with eco-friendly features.

Primary 5 – Olivia Rankin whose home embraced sustainability with elements like rainwater harvesting, and Harvey Taylor, who created a fun and nature-conscious living space.

Primary 6 – Liam MacGregor, who designed a house resilient to environmental challenges such as flooding, and Naomi Madueke who focused on accessibility and community in her design.

Primary 7 – Iris MacGregor, who incorporated native Scottish plants into a community-oriented home, and Kanishkna Rajkumar and Francesca Collery, who worked together to create a design inspired by the 20-minute neighbourhood concept, complete with recycling facilities and eco-conscious features.

Gail Matheson, CEO at HHA, said: “The thoughtful and imaginative designs submitted by the pupils have truly impressed us. It’s inspiring to see how they’ve focused on sustainability and accessibility, carefully considering how their homes will interact with the natural environment.

“It was also fantastic to see so many fun and innovative features included in the designs from a dog-themed home to futuristic smart technology, which I’m sure we’d all love to have in our own homes.

“Our partnership with Ness Castle Primary School marks an exciting milestone for HHA as we celebrate our 20^th anniversary throughout 2025. During this time, we have delivered more than 500 homes available at mid-market rent, providing high-quality rental opportunities for local people. Although a lot has changed in that 20-year period, our commitment to providing safe and comfortable housing has remained our number one priority.”

Craig Connon, Headteacher at Ness Castle Primary School, said: “The pupils have shown immense creativity and thoughtfulness in their designs, and we are grateful to HHA for providing such a fantastic opportunity for our students to engage with the world of design and sustainability.

“It is vital to expose future generations to real-world examples, particularly with housing being an issue that affects everyone. It may even inspire some of our pupils to go on to pursue careers as architects or interior designers, making this experience all the more valuable.”

HHA currently owns and manages 25 mid-market rental homes at The Maples development, located to the south of Inverness city centre near Ness Castle Primary School. MMR homes are typically lower than private rental costs and slightly higher than affordable housing rates, creating well-priced rent opportunities for both families and individuals.

Highland Housing Alliance seeks non-executive directors to shape housing in the highlands

Are you ready to make a meaningful impact on housing in the Highlands? Highland Housing Alliance (HHA) is recruiting up to five non-executive directors to join its board following a recent restructuring. This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to the work of a not-for-profit housing developer dedicated to delivering homes and regenerating communities across the region.

Who we are

Established in 2005, HHA has been at the forefront of providing Mid-Market Rent (MMR) homes. With over 470 MMR homes already delivered and 177 properties expected to be completed within the next year, our developments support local workforces and stimulate regional economies. Beyond housing, HHA has led transformational regeneration projects in Inverness, turning disused buildings into vibrant living spaces.

The role of non-executive directors

As a non-executive director, you will:

Provide independent oversight and constructive challenge to the executive team.
Oversee and review HHA’s policies, strategies, and financial controls.
Monitor performance against budgets and ensure robust risk management.
Act as an ambassador for HHA, representing the organisation in public.

This is a strategic, governance-focused role that involves up to two days per month, including attendance at four board meetings, an annual general meeting, and two development days.

Who we’re looking for

We are seeking individuals with a passion for housing and experience in areas such as:

Financial management, accounting, or risk.
Housing development or property markets, particularly in the Highlands.

Candidates should also demonstrate skills in collaboration, constructive challenge, strategic thinking, decision-making, and effective communication. Previous non-executive experience is not required, as induction and training will be provided.

Why join us?

This role offers a unique opportunity to shape housing policy and contribute to Highland communities’ social and economic wellbeing. As a non-executive director, you will help ensure HHA’s continued success in delivering homes and landmark regeneration projects. Successful candidates will be provided with a salary of £7,500 per annum.

Apply now

If you are enthusiastic about housing and ready to bring your expertise to our board, we encourage you to apply. Please send your CV and a covering letter explaining your interest in the role to [email protected] by 7^th March 2025. Shortlisting will take place the week of 10th March, with in-person interviews held in Inverness on 24^th and 26^th March, with the successful candidates starting on 1^st April.

Please see below the documents which you will need to apply:

Person specifications

Role Description

Background Information

Blog: Seasonal safety from HHA

The festive season is a time for joy, togetherness, and celebration. While decorating your home with lights, candles, and other festive touches is exciting, safety should always come first. Here are some tips to help you enjoy a safe and stress-free Christmas.

Christmas trees

Whether you choose a real or artificial tree, safety starts with proper placement and care. Real trees should be fresh and watered regularly to prevent them from drying out, as dry trees can be highly flammable. Check that the needles are green and firmly attached to the branches. Artificial trees are a great option if they’re labelled as fire-resistant. Wherever your tree stands, ensure it’s positioned away from heat sources like radiators or fireplaces and isn’t blocking any exits. When decorating, avoid overloading branches to keep the tree stable and secure.

Electrical decorations

Festive lights can bring warmth and cheer but handling them responsibly is essential. Before setting up your lights, inspect them for any signs of wear, such as frayed wires or broken bulbs, and replace anything that’s damaged. It’s also essential to avoid overloading electrical sockets; only use one extension lead per outlet to reduce the risk of overheating. Always turn off your lights when you leave the house or go to bed. Using a timer can make this easier. LED lights are an excellent choice as they consume less energy, produce less heat, and are generally safer.

Candle caution

Candles can create a cosy, festive atmosphere but require careful attention. Always place candles on stable surfaces, away from anything flammable, such as curtains or decorations. Never leave a lit candle unattended, especially when leaving the room or heading to bed. If you’re concerned about safety, consider using battery-operated LED candles. These alternatives provide a warm glow without the risks associated with open flames.

Decorating safely

When decorating your home, think about safety as well as style. Avoid placing too many decorations in one area, as this can create potential fire hazards or make pathways difficult to navigate. Use proper hooks or clips to hang items, rather than nails or staples, which could damage electrical wires. If you have children or pets, keep fragile or small decorations out of their reach to prevent accidents.

Heater and fireplace precautions

Fireplaces and heaters can be key to staying cosy during the festive season, but they also require caution. Ensure decorations or stockings are placed at a safe distance from heat sources to avoid accidental fires. If you plan to use a fireplace, make sure it’s clean and in good working condition before lighting it.

Smoke alarms and emergency preparedness

Your smoke alarms are essential to keeping your home safe during the holidays. Take a moment to test them before the season gets into full swing. If you find any issues, don’t hesitate to contact HHA for assistance. Having emergency contacts readily available, including the local fire service and HHA support numbers, is also a good idea. As a reminder, our emergency out-of-hours numbers are 01463 251132 or 01463 251131.

Staying safe doesn’t mean compromising on festive cheer. You can enjoy a magical Christmas with peace of mind by taking a few simple precautions. Everyone at HHA wishes you and your loved ones a joyful, safe and merry Christmas!

Tulloch Homes and HHA strengthen strategic partnership to deliver more MMR homes

HHA, has strengthened its partnership with Tulloch Homes, part of the Springfield Group, in a deal that will create 31 new rental opportunities in Inverness and Conon Bridge.

At The Maples, located to the south of the Inverness city centre, Tulloch Homes is underway with construction of 23 new homes with an anticipated completion date in spring 2026. This includes a mix of high-quality two-bedroom homes and cottage flats, each with innovative heating systems to keep running costs low.

In Conon Bridge, HHA will take handover of eight MMR homes including a mix of three-bedroom semi-detached and detached homes and two-bedroom terraced houses. These will be available from September 2025.

This follows an initial deal between the firms announced in early 2024 which has created 75 MMR homes at landmark developments in Aviemore, Inverness and Kirkhill. The latest deal is supported by funding from the Scottish Government, The Highland Council, and the Highland City Region Deal.

Last week, Tulloch homes completed the latest 14 MMR homes at The Maples, handing them over to HHA which included the not-for-profit developer’s 500^thMMR property.

MMR homes are typically lower than private rental costs and slightly higher than affordable housing rates, creating well-priced rent opportunities for both families and individuals. Addressing the ongoing demand for rental housing, the homes will help to support the local region which is poised for growth via the Inverness and Cromarty Firth Green Freeport. Attracting £3 billion in fresh investment, new homes for workers are vital to its success.

Gail Matheson, CEO at HHA, said: “The need for new rental homes across the Highlands is by no means a new conversation and there is still a long way to go to address the imbalance between demand and supply.

“However, we are pleased to continue our partnership with Tulloch Homes which is proving a real success. Next year HHA will celebrate its 20^th anniversary and we’re proud to see the positive impact we have made across the Highland rental market within that period, supporting hundreds of local people to find a home.

“MMR plays an important fixture in Scotland’s housing mix and should be recognised for the integral role it could play in improving the nation’s housing challenge.”

Kieran Graham, Managing Director of Tulloch Homes, commented: “Tulloch Homes and HHA are vital partners in meeting the ambitious housing targets across the Highlands. By collaborating, we are making significant progress toward this goal. The Maples is a prime example of a development that caters to a wide demographic, offering a variety of housing tenures.

“Next year marks our 100^th year of building new homes in the Highlands. We have deep roots within the Inverness community and we are proud that we are building on this through our delivery of 764 new homes, across a range of tenures, at The Maples, which will make positive and lasting impact for generations.”

Councillor Glynis Sinclair, Chair of Housing and Property Committee at Highland Council, said: “It’s fantastic to see HHA continue to expand its portfolio of high-quality, affordably priced homes in the competitive rental market. By offering stable housing options for local families and individuals in sought-after areas, we retain skilled workers within Highland communities.

“Mid-market rent has a critical role to play in addressing the region’s housing challenges, and Tulloch Homes and HHA’s ongoing contributions to the Highlands should be recognised. Their efforts in providing well-designed, affordable housing are helping to shape a brighter future for the area.”

Blog: Warming Your Home in Winter

As winter settles in, the cold weather can bring its own set of challenges for maintaining a safe and comfortable home. At Highland Housing Alliance, we want to ensure our tenants are prepared with practical advice to protect their homes during the colder months.

Protect Your Pipes

One of the most common issues during winter is frozen or burst pipes. Letting your taps drip slightly during freezing conditions can prevent water from stagnating and freezing in the pipes. It’s also important to familiarise yourself with the location of your stopcock so you can quickly turn off the water supply in case of an emergency.

Ensure Proper Ventilation

Proper ventilation is equally important during the winter. While it’s tempting to seal your home entirely to keep the warmth in, good airflow helps to prevent condensation and mould. Using extractor fans in the bathroom and kitchen when cooking or bathing can help control moisture levels. Opening your windows for short periods during the day allows fresh air to circulate, reducing dampness. If condensation appears on windows or surfaces, wipe it away promptly to prevent mould from forming.

Heat Your Home Efficiently

Heating your home efficiently can save money while keeping it warm. Setting your thermostat between 18°C and 21°C ensures a comfortable environment while also protecting your pipes from freezing. Using timers on your heating system allows you to control when your home is warm, such as before waking up and during the evening. Keeping curtains and blinds closed after sunset helps retain heat, and if your radiators are not heating evenly, bleeding them can release trapped air and improve their efficiency.

Inspect the Exterior of Your Home

It’s also important to check your home’s exterior for any vulnerabilities. Clearing gutters and drains of leaves and debris helps prevent water from backing up and freezing, which could lead to damage. Inspect your roof for loose tiles or damage that might let in water or cold air. Icy walkways can be hazardous, so salting or gritting pathways can reduce the risk of slips and falls.

Be Prepared for Winter Storms

Winter storms can disrupt power and water supplies, so it’s wise to prepare for such events. Stock up on essentials like torches, batteries, candles, and non-perishable food in case of outages. Staying informed about local weather alerts will also help you anticipate severe conditions and plan accordingly.

Report Issues and Check on Neighbours

If you notice an issue in your home, such as draughts, leaks, or heating problems, report it to HHA as soon as possible. Addressing problems early can prevent them from becoming more serious or costly to fix.

Lastly, don’t forget to check in on your neighbours, especially those who may be elderly or vulnerable. A quick visit or phone call can ensure they are safe, warm, and supported during the colder months.

By taking these proactive steps, you can keep your home secure, comfortable, and protected throughout winter. Remember, Highland Housing Alliance is here to assist you, so if you have any concerns or require support, don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can find our contact details, including out-of-hours or emergency numbers, here.

Stay safe and warm this winter!

Testimonial - Nicola Doctor

At HHA, our mission is to provide quality homes that truly make a difference, so it’s always heartwarming to hear directly from our residents about the impact of their new homes.

We recently caught up with Nicola Doctor, who shared her experience of moving into her new HHA home near Inverness earlier this autumn.

Nicola said: “I was allocated a beautiful two-bedroom flat near the city centre by HHA on 4 October 2024. The application was simple, and the whole process was seamless. Clare Stoddart was very supportive and reassuring and was always available if I needed any help or required further information.

“The properties are impressive and less expensive than private rent. You are also better protected in the long term. I would highly recommend mid-market rentals at HHA – I just wish I had considered it sooner!”

Nicola’s story highlights the difference a high-quality, affordable home can make, not only in terms of financial security but also the peace of mind that comes with dedicated support throughout the process. At HHA, we’re proud to offer mid-market rental properties that provide not only great value but also a pathway to stable and comfortable living.