Shared Ownership: Making Homeownership Affordable and Attainable
In October, the Help to Buy scheme, which provided first-time buyers with equity loans for new build properties, came to an end in England. This closure left a void for those seeking affordable homeownership options. However, Shared Ownership, a government-backed scheme, steps in to fill that void and offers a viable solution for first-time buyers. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of Shared Ownership, its benefits, and how it can make homeownership more accessible.
What is Shared Ownership?
Shared Ownership is a housing scheme that allows first-time buyers, or those who do not currently own a property, to purchase a home at a more affordable price. It works by enabling a buyer to purchase a share of a property, typically ranging from 25% to 75% of the purchase price. This share represents the portion of the property that the buyer owns.
Affordability at its Core:
One of the key advantages of Shared Ownership is its affordability. Unlike traditional homeownership, where a buyer needs to provide a substantial deposit based on the full property value, Shared Ownership requires a deposit only for the buyer’s share value. Typically, this deposit amounts to just 5% to 10% of the share value, making it significantly more manageable for buyers.
Lower Monthly Payments:
In addition to the reduced deposit requirement, Shared Ownership also offers lower monthly payments. Buyers pay a subsidised monthly rent on the share of the property they do not own, which is typically set at 2.75% per annum. When compared to the current mortgage rates, this represents a significantly lower cost, enabling buyers to enjoy the benefits of homeownership while keeping their monthly expenses more manageable.
The Path to 100% Ownership:
One of the remarkable features of Shared Ownership is the ability to increase the share of the property owned over time through a process called “Staircasing.” After moving into the home, buyers can increase their share in the property, all the way up to 100%, as their financial situation improves. With each increase in share, the subsidised monthly rent decreases, providing further financial relief. Staircasing offers buyers the flexibility to achieve outright homeownership gradually, at a pace that suits their circumstances.
Options for New Builds and Resale Schemes:
Shared Ownership provides buyers with a choice between new build properties and those available through the resale scheme. This flexibility allows individuals to explore a range of options and find a property that meets their needs and preferences.
Important Considerations:
It’s important to note that shared ownership homes are sold as leasehold properties. As with any property purchase, buyers should review the terms and conditions of the leasehold agreement and seek legal advice to fully understand their rights and responsibilities.
Conclusion:
Shared Ownership offers a fantastic affordable option to those aspiring to own their own home but find traditional homeownership financially out of reach. Through low affordable deposit requirements, lower monthly payments, and the potential to staircase to 100% ownership, Shared Ownership provides an option to long-term homeownership and financial security. Whether purchasing new builds or resale schemes, this government-backed initiative empowers first-time buyers to step onto the property ladder with confidence and stability.
If you’re a first-time buyer or seeking affordable homeownership, Shared Ownership could be the solution you’ve been searching for. Take advantage of this scheme to secure a home that suits your needs and aspirations, all while enjoying the benefits of ownership at a more accessible cost.
Get in touch with Emilija on sales@parkproperties.uk to discuss your options.