We have been told that our landlord wants to sell the property we're in at present. Our situation means we had to pay 6 months up front due to bad credit. We havent defaulted on our rent in over 2 years that we have been here. But I'm not sure how our credit rating will be now, nor whether we have to pay 6 months up front again. I know we can't get 6 months money up front again, we had to borrow it before. Plus the deposit, we can't get that, without getting our deposit back on the one we're in. Council are far from helpful. What is my best option?
You should explain to your landlord that you can't get a new property without the deposit back on this one. He might be sympathetic and let you have it back early if he can see the condition is good and the rent already paid.
Otherwise you would have to borrow the money for just a short time until you find a new place and get this one's deposit back. I don't know how your credit rating will be now, or if you'd have to pay six months up front.
If you have children, the council have to find you somewhere to stay.
Also, try Shelter. They might be able to help. They will have advice for you, at least.
Have you tried your bank for a short-term loan to cover the deposit, until you get the current deposit back? Most landlords want a deposit on a new letting, irrespective of your credit rating.
One thing I'd suggest is contact someone like Experian, and pay £3 to get an updated credit report - then you can see how the land lies, straight away, as regards your personal finances.