The Shared Ownership scheme is a great option for London's first time buyers needing a helping hand onto the property ladder. We take a look at how the scheme works and pick out five stunning Shared Ownership properties that demonstrate the opportunities offered by partial home ownership in the capital.
What is Shared Ownership?
Shared Ownership forms part of the government's Help to Buy scheme. Buyers are able to purchase between 25%-75% of a property and pay rent on the remaining percentile. The scheme is only available on new-build properties, or existing properties that house builders place on resale programmes.
Once they can afford to, buyers of Shared Ownership properties are able to purchase more of a share in their property. Shared Ownership homes are always leasehold properties, and buyers need to be eligible to qualify for the scheme, with a number of stipulations that we'll look at below.
Who is Shared Ownership for?
The Help to Buy Shared Ownership scheme is only open to households whose combined income is less than £90,000 (£80,0000 outside London). Buyers must also not own any other properties, unless they are already a shared owner and are looking to move. Many London boroughs also have rules around giving preference to people who live or work in that borough when it comes to being considered for a Shared Ownership property.
So that's how Shared Ownership works, now let's take a look at some options around London. With 25% shares starting at just £99,900, these homes represent a very accessible entry to London property ownership.
Jessop Building, Canary Wharf, E14
£118,750 | 2 bed flat
This two bedroom flat is located on the eastern fringe of Canary Wharf and boasts a stylish open plan reception space and private balcony with far-reaching views. This lovely flat is available with a 25% shared ownership costing £118,750.
Point Pleasant, Putney, SW18
£162,000 | 2 bed flat
Located within easy reach of Putney's plentiful shops and cafes, this lovely first floor flat is bright and spacious with two double bedrooms and en suite to the master bedroom. The open plan kitchen and reception space is generously sized and includes access to a private balcony. This flat is available with a 30% shared ownership for £162,000.
Railway Approach, Harrow, HA1
£99,900 | 1 bed flat
At just £99,900 for a 45% share, this bright one bedroom flat boasts a large reception space with room to entertain and a superb private balcony with far-reaching views. Situated on the third floor of a modern development, this newly-decorated home is well proportioned and includes plenty of built-in storage space.
Rothsay Street, London Bridge, SE1
£115,000 | 1 bed flat
This spacious one bedroom flat is situated within the sought-after Jam Factory development in London Bridge. Bright and airy interiors, a generous private balcony and a well-proportioned reception space make this a very appealing option for buyers looking to live close to the centre of London. This flat is available with a 25% share for £115,000.
Explorers Court, Canary Wharf, E14
£152,000 | 1 bed flat
Located in a modern development with lift access and a large communal roof terrace, this bright and spacious one bedroom flat is situated close to Canary Wharf. This lovely home offers a bright, open plan reception and kitchen space with a roomy double bedroom, while the impressive roof terrace boasts amazing views across to the O2 and Canary Wharf. This flat is available for £152,000 for a 50% share.
Click to find out more about Shared Ownership and other Help to Buy options available to buyers in and around London.
