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.

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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.

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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.

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Buying a Shared Ownership Home

When buying a shared ownership property, we:

Reviewal & Explanation

Review your lease and explain key terms

Compliance

Ensure compliance with the provider’s requirements

Advise & Recommendation

Advise on the mortgage offer and lender conditions

Communication

Liaise with the housing association, developer and mortgage broker

Submission & Register

Submit your Stamp Duty Land Tax return and register your ownership with the Land Registry

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Selling or Staircasing Your Share

Selling or increasing your share in a shared ownership home involves additional steps and permissions. Our goal is to protect your position while meeting any provider-imposed deadlines.

Reviewal & Explanation

Review and explain staircasing documents

Contract Prep

Prepare contracts and liaise with the housing provider on your behalf

Advise & Recommendation

Advise on restrictions around valuation, marketing and assignment

Communication

Act for you in both staircasing and simultaneous resale transactions

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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