Clarity first
Explain the essentials in plain language, without making the journey feel overwhelming.
A little about us
We believe the path home should feel clearer.
Shared Owners is being shaped around one simple idea: people deserve straightforward information when they’re making one of life’s biggest decisions.
Follow our journey ↗
Why we’re here
Less jargon. More clarity.
Shared ownership can offer an alternative route to buying a home, but the process can come with unfamiliar terms, costs, and eligibility rules. We want to help people make sense of the basics before they take the next step.
We’re building a welcoming digital starting point for learning, planning, and discovering what questions to ask along the way.
“A more informed decision is a more confident first step.”
What guides us
Designed around people, not paperwork.
Our early direction is built on three principles.
People at the centre
Recognise that every buyer has a different budget, timeline, and idea of home.
Confidence through knowledge
Help visitors prepare better questions and understand the details they need to verify.
Eligibility requirements & assessment
Who can apply for Shared Ownership?
Stepping onto the property ladder is easier than you think. Shared Ownership isn’t just for first-time buyers—it’s open to anyone looking to secure an affordable home they can call their own. Before you start house hunting, check that you meet the core requirements.
-
Age You must be at least 18 years old.
-
Property ownership You must be a first-time buyer, or currently selling your existing property (in the UK or abroad) before completing the purchase.
-
Household income Your total household income must be under £80,000 a year (or under £90,000 if you are buying in London).
-
Market affordability You must be unable to buy a suitable home on the open market that meets your household’s needs.
-
Financial health You must have a clear credit history (no active CCJs or unmanaged bad debts), no rent or mortgage arrears, and prove you can afford the ongoing monthly payments.
How homes are allocated
In most cases, Shared Ownership homes are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis to qualified applicants. Specific priority rules also apply:
Military priority
Serving members and recently discharged personnel (within the last two years) of the British Armed Forces receive top priority.
Local connection
Some local councils require applicants to live, work, or have strong family ties in the area where the development is built.
Housing provider criteria
Individual housing associations may have additional guidelines to ensure homes go to those who need them most.
First-time buyer definition & status
What does first-time buyer mean?
Generally, a first-time buyer is someone who has never previously owned a residential property, whether in the UK or overseas, and is now purchasing their first home. The definition can vary depending on whether you’re applying for a mortgage, Stamp Duty Land Tax, or an affordable homeownership scheme.
You may be considered a first-time buyer if
- You have never owned a residential property in the UK or overseas.
- You are purchasing a home that you intend to live in as your main residence.
- You have previously owned commercial property, provided it did not include residential accommodation.
You may not be considered a first-time buyer if
- You have previously owned or jointly owned a residential property.
- You have previously been named on the title deeds of a residential property.
- You have inherited or received a residential property as a gift.
- You are purchasing jointly with someone who owns, or has previously owned, a residential property.
Knowing whether you qualify as a first-time buyer can affect mortgage options, financial support, Stamp Duty benefits, and eligibility for schemes including Shared Ownership and First Homes.
Alternative homeownership schemes
Other routes onto the property ladder
Getting onto the property ladder can feel challenging. Alongside Shared Ownership, several schemes and initiatives are designed to make homeownership more accessible.
Rent to Buy
Rent selected newly built properties at a reduced rent (below market rate) to put money aside towards a future deposit. Suits people who can rent but need more time to save.
London Living Rent
For eligible London households: rent at a below-market rate while working towards homeownership, using reduced rent savings to build a deposit.
First Homes
A government-backed scheme allowing eligible buyers to purchase selected properties at a discount to market value. The discount remains linked to the property for future eligible purchasers.
Deposit Unlock
Enables eligible buyers to purchase selected new-build properties with a deposit as low as 5%, supported by participating developer insurance arrangements.
Discount Market Sale & Shared Equity
Provides discounted property prices or equity support toward part of the home’s value, based on specific local rules.
Always verify current rules
Scheme availability, eligibility, discounts, and thresholds can change. If buying in London, explore the Homes for Londoners platform developed with the Greater London Authority.
Shared Owners is an informational concept and is not a housing provider, mortgage lender, or financial adviser. Scheme details and eligibility must be verified with the relevant provider and official guidance. Income thresholds and criteria can change.