According to the figures, purchasing a 25% share of a £600,000 one-bedroom flat in Islington, with a £7,500 deposit, could save borrowers as much as £41,004 over a two year period, compared with the cost of renting a similar property on the open rental market (£3,900pcm) just a short walk away.
As well as a potentially substantial saving on housing costs over two years, Shared Ownership buyers could also see the value of the 25% share in their home increase if London property prices rise. They also have the option to increase the share of the property they own over time – known as staircasing – so could invest the money saved to buy a greater share of their home.
Matt Bartle, Director of Products at Leeds Building Society, said: “Shared Ownership celebrates its 40th anniversary this year and remains a cornerstone of affordable housing in the UK. The scheme has enabled thousands of people to step onto the property ladder and remains a viable option, particularly for first time buyers.
Time and again, the challenge of saving up for a deposit is named as the biggest obstacle facing anyone wanting to buy their first home. However, our 95% borrower share mortgages require a deposit of 5% of the share borrowers are purchasing, rather than of the entire value of the property, significantly reducing the size of deposit required.
Recent changes to the scheme have made it more accessible than ever, with the only key restriction that borrowers must have a household income of less than £80k (£90k in London). A consultation on changes to Shared Ownership, including measures to make staircasing easier for buyers, has also recently been completed.
For many, Shared Ownership makes financial sense as it immediately reduces the size of a deposit, purchasers own a share of their home and can build up equity if they wish, while the monthly cost can be cheaper than an equivalent privately rented home.”
