Shared Ownership

Shared Ownership

Shared ownership is an increasingly popular way to get on the property ladder, especially for first-time buyers and key workers. But it comes with its own legal complexities. At Franklins Solicitors, we provide clear, expert advice to help you understand your rights, responsibilities and options from start to finish.

Shared ownership is an increasingly popular way to get on the property ladder, especially for first-time buyers and key workers. But it comes with its own legal complexities. At Franklins Solicitors, we provide clear, expert advice to help you understand your rights, responsibilities and options from start to finish.

Law for life

What is Shared Ownership?

Shared ownership allows you to buy a percentage share of a property, typically from a housing association or developer and pay rent on the remaining share. You can increase your ownership over time through a process called staircasing.

It’s designed to be more affordable than traditional purchases, but it’s still a long-term legal commitment. We help ensure you fully understand the scheme before you sign.

law for life

How We Help with Shared Ownership Transactions

Our specialist conveyancers deal with all legal aspects of shared ownership property, including:

  • Purchasing a Shared Ownership Home

  • Selling a Shared Ownership Property

  • Staircasing (Buying Further Shares in your Home)

  • Lease Reviews and Compliance with Housing Association Rules

  • Liaising With Mortgage Lenders and Shared Ownership Providers

  • Advice on Resale Restrictions and Nomination Periods

Speak to our Conveyancing Team

If you’re planning to buy, sell, or remortgage a property, our team is ready to help. Contact your local Franklins office to speak with an expert.

conveyancing

Buying a Shared Ownership Home

Lease Review

We review your lease and explain the key terms clearly, so you know exactly what you’re signing.

Meeting Requirements

We make sure everything complies with your housing provider’s conditions to keep the process smooth.

Mortgage Checks

We review your mortgage offer and highlight any legal conditions that need to be met before completion.

Coordinating Parties

We liaise with your housing association, developer, and broker to keep everyone aligned.

Final Steps

We submit your Stamp Duty return and register your ownership with the Land Registry.

Conveyancing

Shared Ownership FAQs

Can I sell my share?2025-08-11T11:54:49+01:00

Yes. The housing association usually has the right to find a buyer within a set nomination period. After that, you can sell on the open market, subject to lease terms.

Who is responsible for repairs?2025-08-11T11:54:36+01:00

Often, leaseholders are responsible for internal repairs, even if they don’t own 100% of the property. We’ll explain exactly what your lease requires.

Do I still pay Stamp Duty on a shared ownership home?2025-08-11T11:54:24+01:00

It depends on the share you buy and how much the full market value is. We’ll advise you on whether SDLT is payable and which option is most cost-effective.

Do I need a solicitor for a shared ownership property?2025-08-11T11:53:56+01:00

Yes. You’re entering into a legal lease and purchasing part of a property, so it’s essential to have expert legal advice.

Can I buy more shares in the future?2025-08-11T11:54:10+01:00

Yes, this is called staircasing. You can usually do this in stages until you own 100%, but the rules and costs vary by provider.

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