Get onto the property ladder with a smaller deposit through shared ownership – made easy by scottfraser in partnership with our sister company, SOWN.
Shared ownership is a fantastic solution for many aspiring to buy a property but unable to save a significant deposit.
At scottfraser, we simplify the shared ownership process for you through our sister company, SOWN.
Initial share options
Typical deposit required
Shared ownership properties
Initial consultation fee
Shared ownership allows you to purchase a portion of a property (between 25% and 75%) and pay rent on the remainder. Over time, you can buy additional shares in the property until you own it outright – a process known as staircasing.
This approach offers a more affordable route to homeownership, with smaller deposits and lower mortgage payments than buying on the open market.
Shared ownership requires a much smaller deposit than traditional buying—typically just 5% of the share you're purchasing rather than 5-10% of the entire property value, making homeownership accessible even with limited savings.
The staircasing process allows you to buy additional shares at your own pace as your financial situation improves, providing a flexible pathway to full ownership without the pressure of a massive initial commitment.
Access homes in prime areas that would otherwise be beyond your budget, including new-build properties with modern specifications and lower maintenance requirements than older homes.
Mortgage Scout are experts at seeking the best way to buy the home of your dreams. Mortgage Scout is a sister company of scottfraser and SOWN, so we work closely to ensure your shared ownership purchase runs smoothly.
Over 500 clients have stepped onto the property ladder through our shared ownership services.
Our partnership with SOWN provides expert guidance on all aspects of shared ownership purchases.
We help you access properties with deposits as low as 5% of the share you're buying, making homeownership achievable.
We explain the staircasing process and all ownership details in simple, straightforward language.
Our partnership with Mortgage Scout ensures you get specialised shared ownership mortgage products at competitive rates.
Speak to one of our friendly agents for tailored advice.
Shared ownership is primarily designed for first-time buyers, those who previously owned a home but can't afford one now, or existing shared owners looking to move. Typically, your household income should be less than £80,000 per year (£90,000 in London). Priority is often given to those with connections to the local area, such as living or working there.
One of the main advantages of shared ownership is the lower deposit requirement. You typically need only 5-10% of the share you're buying, not the total property value. For example, a 5% deposit on a 25% share of a £300,000 property would be just £3,750, compared to £15,000 for a 5% deposit on the full value.
Staircasing is the process of purchasing additional shares in your property over time. Most shared ownership schemes allow you to staircase up to 100% ownership, at which point you own the property outright. Each staircase typically requires a minimum purchase of 10% of the property's current market value, which will be assessed by an independent valuer at the time
Beyond your mortgage payments on the share you own, you'll pay rent on the remaining share (typically at a below-market rate), service charges for maintenance of communal areas, and standard homeowner costs like utilities and council tax. You're also responsible for all internal repairs and maintenance regardless of the percentage owned.
Yes, you can make cosmetic changes without permission, but structural modifications typically require approval from the housing association or developer. Any improvements you make may increase the property's value, which benefits you when selling or staircasing, though the exact terms vary between schemes.