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Shared ownership · England

You buy an initial share, generally 10–75%, and pay rent on the rest. The deposit relates to your share. Household income limits are £80,000, or £90,000 in London, and you must be unable to afford a suitable home outright.

Budget for mortgage (a loan secured on your home), rent, service charges and repairs. Review the lease, future rent changes, buying more shares and resale costs. Some homes have different share rules and local conditions.

First Homes · England

Designated properties carry a 30–50% discount, retained on resale. All buyers must qualify as first-time buyers and be 18 or over. Income caps are £80,000, or £90,000 in London; at least half the discounted price must be mortgaged.

For an initial new-build sale, the discounted price is capped at £250,000, or £420,000 in London. Councils may set lower caps and local priorities. It is not a discount on any home.

Compare the complete monthly bill

The mortgage is only one part of shared ownership. Add the rent and service or estate charges for the actual home, and check repair obligations and future increases. A smaller initial deposit is not a guarantee of lower ongoing costs.

Find out what is actually available

Ask the local council or participating housing provider about homes, local connections and application requirements. A scheme being open nationally does not establish local availability.