Important Information i

Stamp Duty Land Tax Deadline

To ensure completion can take place before the Stamp Duty Land Tax Deadline on 31st March we require solicitors to ensure the Certificate of Title has been submitted with a minimum of 5 calendar days notice and all offer conditions to be satisfied. Please also be aware that we do not accept local authority search indemnity for residential purchase transactions.

Intermediaries
Customers

The full potential of Shared Ownership

Thursday, March 20, 2025

As brokers, we know that first-time buyers (FTBs) often struggle to get onto the property ladder. But what if one of the most accessible routes to homeownership was being overlooked?

Are your clients in the dark about shared ownership?

According to our research, 65% of first-time buyers don’t fully understand shared ownership. That’s a huge knowledge gap and a huge opportunity for

you as a broker. Shared ownership is designed to help buyers who might otherwise be priced out of the market, but if they don’t understand it, they won’t even consider it.

That’s where you come in. By educating your clients and breaking down the myths around shared ownership, you can be the expert they trust to guide them toward a solution that fits their needs.

A Piece of the property pie

For an increasing number of FTBs, affordability is a barrier to homeownership. With rising house prices and high deposit requirements, saving enough for a mortgage can feel unfeasible. Shared ownership could offer a practical solution, by enabling your clients to purchase a share of a property, usually between 25% and 75%, and pay rent on the rest.

Over time, they can buy more shares through a process called staircasing, gradually increasing until they own 100%.

There are many reasons why shared ownership is worth discussing with your clients:

  • Lower deposit requirements – buyers only need a deposit for the share they’re purchasing, rather than the full property value, so getting on the ladder becomes more achievable.
  • Smaller mortgage repayments – because they’re only borrowing for part of the property, the total monthly payment can be lower compared to buying outright.
  • More choice in a competitive market – shared ownership opens up more options for buyers who may not qualify for a full mortgage on their own.

Helping clients to see the opportunity

So how can you help first-time buyers see shared ownership as a viable option? The key is education—and there are plenty of ways to make the process simple and engaging.

Use plain, clear language

Many clients get lost in the jargon, so keeping explanations straightforward is essential. Instead of diving into technical details, frame shared ownership in a way that resonates with their situation. For example:

"With shared ownership, you can buy a home with a smaller deposit and mortgage, making it much easier to afford. You’ll pay rent on the remaining share and build equity over time,  with the option to buy more of your home when your circumstances allow."

Tackle common myths

Misconceptions stop many buyers from considering shared ownership. As their broker, you can reassure them with facts:

  • Myth: “I’ll never fully own my home.”
  • Reality: Buyers can staircase and potentially own 100% of the property.
  • Myth: “It’s just renting with extra steps.”
  • Reality: Shared ownership is a legitimate homeownership route, offering security and the opportunity to gradually own your own home.
  • Myth: “I can’t sell a shared ownership home.”
  • Reality: Buyers can sell their share or the entire property just like any other homeowner.

Leverage digital tools and resources

We have created a range of resources to help you engage and educate your clients more effectively. From social media to CRM, these tools can help you spread the word and build trust with potential buyers.

A simple way to engage clients is through social media. Sharing short explanation posts, quick videos, or hosting Q&A sessions can highlight the benefits of shared ownership in an accessible way.

Support made easy

At TML, we understand that shared ownership can be a game-changer for first-time buyers. That’s why we’re committed to helping brokers like you navigate the process with confidence.

Don’t share this opportunity, own it

The numbers don’t lie, buyers are in the dark about shared ownership, and they need someone to guide them. By stepping up and educating your clients, you’re not just helping them find a home, you’re building trust, standing out in the market, and growing your business.

Now’s the time to take action. Explore our shared ownership webpage or contact your local BDM today, and start the conversation with your clients. Because the more they know, the closer they get to owning their own home.