Sponsored Editorial

Since 2011, Dot Dot Dot have housed over 1,500 property guardians in buildings that would otherwise be empty.

Currently, they have two 2-bed properties available in Shepway, Maidstone, for sole occupancy or for sharers.

Dot Dot Dot houses residents – known as property guardians – in buildings that would otherwise sit empty, mainly in London and south-east England. In return for inexpensive housing, guardians commit to volunteering for good causes for at least 16 hours a month.

Through Dot Dot Dot’s work, property owners get responsible guardians to look after their empty buildings temporarily, resulting in better security and flexibility. Guardians get well managed, inexpensive homes, so they have the time and energy to focus on what really matters to them.

Collectively, Dot Dot Dot guardians have given time worth £4.3m to good causes since 2011; that’s the equivalent of one person working full-time for more than 200 years.

Property guardianship is also incredibly flexible - perfect if you’re in a period of transition. At Dot Dot Dot, guardians can give 28 days’ notice to end their property agreement - no break clause is required (Dot Dot Dot can also give guardians 28 days notice to move out - for example, if a property owner needs their building back).

Haami explains why it's this flexibility that attracted her to become a property guardian in the first place.

“Becoming a Dot Dot Dot guardian was an easy decision to make. Having privately rented in the past, I was fed up with strict regulations on decorating my space along with lengthy contracts, and so I was after somewhere that could really feel like a home.

“The chance to pick up a paintbrush combined with my volunteering experience and the warmth I felt from Dot Dot Dot upon viewing the place, I jumped at the opportunity to move into my own property guardian flat.

“Eight months into my guardianship, I feel incredibly lucky to be experiencing opportunities through my volunteering that would otherwise have passed me by, and to have the freedom and flexibility to pursue my goals.

“Living with Dot Dot Dot was the best way I could have my own place in a convenient area - I know it’s temporary but it’s a fantastic stepping stone while I plan my next move!”

The 2-bed flats are located in the suburbs of Maidstone, and to the south of Mote Park with its 450 acres of woodlands and rivers. The suburb, Shepway, is a short bus ride to the town centre, where there’s plenty to see and do. Kent countryside surrounds Maidstone and living here will give you the opportunity to discover its medieval history – the real gem is Leeds Castle.

If you’d like to apply to be a property guardian in Maidstone, or to discover more about Dot Dot Dot, visit dotdotdotproperty.com or find them on Instagram @dddproperty.