📚 Guides & Insights
Plain-English articles to help you understand shared ownership, affordability, and the buying process.
Learn about the Older Persons Shared Ownership scheme (OPSO) for people aged 55 and over. Understand eligibility, how it differs from standard shared ownership, staircasing limits, and how to find OPSO properties in the UK.
Understand stamp duty on shared ownership properties in the UK. Learn about the two payment methods (market value vs phased), first-time buyer relief, and how stamp duty works when staircasing.
Find out exactly how much deposit you need for shared ownership in the UK. Learn how the deposit is calculated, ways to save faster, and what happens if you can't afford the minimum deposit.
Compare Help to Buy and shared ownership schemes side by side. Understand the key differences in eligibility, costs, deposits, and long-term financial impact to decide which UK government scheme suits your situation best.
Everything you need to know about shared ownership mortgages in the UK. Compare mortgage rates, find out how much you can borrow, understand the application process, and learn how shared ownership mortgages differ from standard home loans.
Find out how much you need to earn for shared ownership in the UK. Understand the affordability assessment, minimum income requirements, eligibility criteria, and how housing associations calculate what you can afford.
Is shared ownership worth it in 2026? We break down the pros and cons, compare monthly costs vs full ownership, and help you decide if it's a good idea for your situation.
Understand why lease length matters for shared ownership homes, how to extend your lease, the costs involved, and how recent leasehold reform changes affect shared owners in England and Wales.
A step-by-step guide to selling your shared ownership home in the UK, covering the nomination period, valuation requirements, selling on the open market, and the costs involved.
Learn how staircasing works in shared ownership, including when you can do it, how much it costs, the valuation process, and the pros and cons of buying additional shares in your home.
Learn how to find shared ownership homes for sale using recommended search tools. Discover the process of arranging viewings, eligibility checks, and engaging with landlords. Understand the importance of legal professionals in transferring ownership and reviewing shared ownership lease terms and mortgage conditions.
Discover the various costs involved in purchasing a shared ownership home, including reservation fees, deposits, solicitor fees, mortgage broker fees, and stamp duty. Understand the implications and options for payment to make an informed decision.
Learn how to effectively manage the monthly costs associated with owning a shared ownership home, including rent payments for the share you don't own and service fees for maintenance and communal areas. Explore insights into rent adjustments, service charge details, and key considerations to ensure financial stability.
As the property market continues to challenge first-time buyers, shared ownership schemes offer a promising pathway to homeownership. Discover why 2026 might be the ideal year to step onto the property ladder through shared ownership, with insights on market trends, government policies, and expert tips for navigating the process.
Learn how rent increases work in shared ownership homes, including how they're calculated using the Retail Price Index (RPI) plus 0.5% or Consumer Price Index (CPI) plus 1%, and what this means for your monthly costs.
Learn about the insurance requirements for shared ownership properties, including buildings, contents, personal liability, and mortgage protection. Discover how to choose the right insurance policies to protect your investment and safeguard your future.
Learn about the government-supported shared ownership scheme that helps individuals and households become homeowners. Find eligibility criteria, rules, and benefits for shared ownership in Northern Ireland, Scotland, and Wales.
Choosing the right solicitor for your shared ownership purchase is crucial. Learn why specialized expertise matters, key qualities to look for, and practical steps to select the best solicitor for your needs.
