Shared Ownership: An affordable way to get on the property ladder

29th Apr 2025

Shared ownership

Shared ownership offers an affordable route onto the property ladder for those who may not be able to afford traditional homeownership.

If you’re struggling to save for a large deposit or secure a high mortgage, this first-time buyer scheme could be the perfect solution. Here’s everything you need to know about how shared ownership works, its benefits, and common myths debunked.

What is shared ownership?

Shared ownership is a government-backed scheme that allows you to buy a share of a property (usually between 10% and 75%) while paying rent on the remaining portion. Over time, you can increase your share through a process called staircasing, eventually owning the property outright if you choose to.

This means you don’t need a huge deposit or a large mortgage, making home–ownership more accessible for first-time buyers and those with lower incomes.

How does shared ownership work?

1. Buy a share of your home

Purchase a percentage of the property (e.g., 25%, 50%, or 75%) with a mortgage and deposit.

The deposit is typically lower than buying a home outright because it’s based on the share you purchase (e.g., 5% of a 50% share rather than 5% of the full property price).

2. Pay rent on the remaining share

You’ll pay rent on the portion you don’t own, at a below-market rate, making it more affordable than private renting.

3. Increase your share over time

When you’re financially ready, you can buy more shares in your home through staircasing, reducing the rent you pay. By working towards owning 100% of your home, you can enjoy full home ownership, eliminating rent entirely!

4. Sell your shared ownership home when ready

If you decide to move, you can sell your share of the property on the open market.

Benefits of shared ownership

✅ Lower deposit requirements – Since you’re only buying a share of the home, the deposit is much smaller than traditional mortgages

✅ Affordable monthly costs – Mortgage repayments and rent together often work out cheaper than renting privately

✅ A stepping stone to full homeownership – You can increase your ownership share over time through staircasing.

✅ Government-backed security – Shared ownership properties are managed by housing associations. Viola Homes properties are managed by Beyond Housing, ensuring fair terms and regulations.

✅ Flexibility – You can sell your share and move whenever you choose.

Common Myths about Shared Ownership

❌ Myth 1: “You’ll never fully own the property”
✅ Reality: You can staircase and increase your share until you reach 100% ownership, meaning you fully own your home.

❌ Myth 2: “Shared ownership homes are only for low-income buyers”
✅ Reality: While shared ownership helps those with lower incomes, many professionals and first-time buyers also use the scheme to afford their first home.

❌ Myth 3: “You can’t make changes to the property”
✅ Reality: After the initial drying period, you can decorate your home however you like! However any structural changes will require the housing provider’s approval.

❌ Myth 4: “Shared ownership is the same as renting”
✅ Reality: With shared ownership you own a share of your home, build equity, and benefit from any increase in property value over time.

Is shared ownership right for you?

If you:
✔️ Can’t afford to buy a home on the open market
✔️ Have a small deposit and a stable income
✔️ Want a more affordable way to get on the property ladder

Then shared ownership could be the perfect solution for you!

Start your homeownership journey today

View available shared ownership homes here