Am I eligible for shared ownership?

One of the first questions people ask is whether they're eligible for Shared Ownership.

The good news is that Shared Ownership isn't just for first-time buyers. You may also be able to apply if you've owned a home before, currently own a property you're looking to sell, or already own a Shared Ownership home and want to move.

This guide explains who can apply, the income limits that apply and some of the situations where you may still be eligible.

What are the income limits for shared ownership?

To be eligible for Shared Ownership, your total household income must be:

  • £80,000 a year or less if you're buying outside London
  • £90,000 a year or less if you're buying in London
Your household income includes the income of everyone who will be buying the home with you.

Quick eligibility checklist

  • Your household earns £80,000 or less (£90,000 or less in London)
  • You’re a first-time buyer or no longer own a home
  • You’re already a shared owner looking to move
  • You own a home but can’t afford one that meets your needs
  • You’re selling your current home and have an offer accepted (STC)
  • You meet any local connection requirements (if applicable)

Who can apply?

You may be eligible if:

  • You're a first-time buyer
  • You previously owned a home but can no longer afford to buy on the open market
  • You're an existing Shared Ownership homeowner looking to move
  • You currently own a home but can't afford a property that better suits your needs

Shared Ownership is designed to help a wide range of buyers, including people taking their first step onto the property ladder and those whose circumstances have changed over time.

Do you need a connection to the area?

Some shared ownership homes may have additional criteria. For example, you might need to:

  • Live or work in the local area

  • Or have a strong connection to the area

This is usually decided by the local authority. You can check the property listing under 'Ts and Cs' or speak to our sales team to confirm.

What if I already own a home?

You can still apply for shared ownership if you’re in the process of selling your current home. However, you must:

  • Have accepted an offer (your home should be “sold subject to contract” or STC)

  • Have a memorandum of sale, confirming the agreed price and your intention to sell

  • Complete the sale of your current home before or on the same day you complete the purchase of your shared ownership home

Not sure if shared ownership is the right option for you? Learn how it works or browse available homes in your area.

When might I not be eligible for shared ownership?

 You may not be eligible for Shared Ownership if:

  • Your household income is above £80,000 (£90,000 in London)
  • You can afford to buy a suitable home on the open market without assistance
  • You already own a property and are not planning to sell it
  • You're unable to obtain a mortgage
  • You don't meet any local connection requirements that apply to the home

If you're unsure whether any of these apply to your circumstances, our Sales Team will be happy to help.

Common Questions About Shared Ownership Eligibility

Do I Have to Be a First-Time Buyer?
No. 
While many Shared Ownership buyers are purchasing their first home, being a first-time buyer isn't a requirement. You may still be eligible if you've owned a home before or currently own a property, provided you meet the scheme requirements.

Can I Apply if I've Owned a Home Before?
Yes.
Shared Ownership isn't just for first-time buyers. You may still be eligible if you've owned a home in the past but can't afford to buy a suitable home on the open market now.

Can I Buy a Shared Ownership Home with Someone Else?
Yes.
Many people buy a Shared Ownership home with a partner, spouse or another person. If you're buying together, your combined household income will be used when assessing eligibility and affordability.

Do I Need a Connection to the Area?
Some Shared Ownership homes have additional criteria.

For example, you may need to:
  • Live locally
  • Work locally
  • Have a family connection to the area
These requirements are usually set by the local authority or planning agreement associated with the development.

You can find details on individual property listings or speak to our Sales Team if you're unsure.

How Much Deposit Do I Need?
The amount of deposit you'll need will depend on the share you're buying and your mortgage lender's requirements.

Many lenders offer Shared Ownership mortgages with deposits starting from 5%, although some buyers choose to put down a larger deposit.

You can use our Budget Calculator to explore how different deposit amounts could affect your monthly costs.

Do I Need a Mortgage?
Not always.
Many Shared Ownership buyers use a mortgage, but it's also possible to buy without one if you have enough savings available.

You'll still need to show that the home and the ongoing costs are affordable for you.

Will I Need an Affordability Assessment?
Yes.
As part of the application process, you'll usually need to complete an affordability assessment. This helps confirm that the home is affordable based on your income, expenditure and financial commitments.

Can I Apply if I'm Self-Employed?
Yes.
Self-employed buyers can apply for Shared Ownership, although you'll normally be asked to provide additional financial information as part of the affordability assessment process.

Can I Apply After a Relationship Breakdown?
Yes.
If you're setting up a new household after a separation or relationship breakdown, you may still be eligible for Shared Ownership if you meet the other eligibility requirements.

Will I Be Prioritised for Certain Homes?
Some homes may have additional allocation criteria.
For example, priority may be given to people with a local connection to the area or those who meet specific planning requirements. You can find more information in our Sales Policy and on individual property listings.

What if My Income Is Above the Eligibility Limit?
If your household income exceeds £80,000 (£90,000 in London), you're unlikely to be eligible for Shared Ownership.

If you're unsure whether the income limits apply to your circumstances, our Sales Team will be happy to help.

What happens next?

If you think you may be eligible, the next step is to understand what you can afford and start exploring available homes.

You may find it helpful to:
 
Checking your eligibility is often the first step towards buying a Shared Ownership home.

If you have any questions about eligibility, affordability or the application process, our Sales Team will be happy to help.

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