Shared ownership reality: you can now buy a share from just 10% (not 25%), you don’t have to staircase to 100%, it’s often cheaper than renting, and both new-build and resale homes are available. Here are the most common shared ownership myths and the facts to help you decide if it’s right for you today or not.
Shared ownership remains one of the most popular ways for first-time buyers to get onto the property ladder, yet it’s still widely misunderstood.
More than 250,000 households now live in shared ownership homes across England, and the scheme has evolved significantly in recent years. If you’re considering buying a shared ownership property, here are seven common myths and the reality behind them.
Myth 1: You have to buy at least 25% of the property
Not anymore!
This was true under the older shared ownership model, but the scheme was updated in 2021. Under the current model, you can purchase a share of as little as 10% of a property’s full market value, making it accessible to buyers in higher-priced areas where even a 25% share was out of reach.
The maximum initial share remains 75%. Most buyers purchase somewhere between 25% and 50%, but the 10% entry point means the scheme now works for a wider range of buyers and locations.
Myth 2: Shared ownership is more expensive than renting
The numbers say otherwise
Shared owners pay a mortgage on the share they own and subsidised rent on the remaining share. According to Connells Group’s Q1 2026 data, the average combined monthly cost of the mortgage and subsidised rent for a 40% shared ownership home is around £747 per month.
| Option | Average Monthly Cost |
|---|---|
| Share ownership (40% share) | £747 |
| Full mortgage on equivalent property | £1,089 |
| Average UK rent | £1,374 |
In many parts of the country, that’s significantly lower than private renting. Unlike renting, shared ownership also allows you to build equity in your home over time.
Myth 3: You can’t make changes to the property
You can, within reason.
Shared owners can decorate and make internal improvements much like any other homeowner. For larger structural alterations, such as loft conversions or extensions, you’ll usually need permission from the housing association as well as any necessary planning approvals.
This is similar to the restrictions that apply to many leasehold properties.
Myth 4: “It’s difficult to sell a shared ownership home”
Shared ownership homes have a well-established resale process.
The process is more straightforward than many people think.
Most housing associations have a nomination period, typically around eight weeks, during which they can try to find an eligible buyer. If they don’t, the property can usually be marketed more widely.
As shared ownership has become more common, the resale market has grown significantly, making it easier for owners to sell when the time comes.
Myth 5: You Must Eventually Own 100% of the Property
There’s no requirement to staircase at all.
Staircasing (buying additional shares in your property over time) is entirely optional. Many shared owners remain at their original share level for years because it suits their finances and housing needs.
In fact, only around 2.6% of shared owners fully staircase to 100% ownership each year.
You can increase your share when it makes sense for you, but there’s no requirement to staircase to full ownership.
Myth 6: “Shared ownership is only for new builds”
Resales are an increasingly popular option.
While shared ownership is often associated with new-build developments, resale properties are becoming increasingly popular. A shared ownership resale allows you to purchase an existing owner’s share and continue staircasing if you choose.
Resales can offer excellent value and provide access to established neighbourhoods where new-build homes may be limited.
Myth 7: Shared Ownership Conveyancing Is Too Complicated
It doesn’t have to be.
Shared ownership purchases involve additional legal requirements because housing associations are involved in the transaction. However, an experienced conveyancing solicitor will guide you through the process, explain the lease and liaise with the housing association on your behalf.
With the right legal support, buying a shared ownership home is no more daunting than any other property purchase. As with any property transaction, understanding the key stages of shared ownership in advance can help avoid delays.
Is Shared Ownership Worth It in 2026?
For many first-time buyers, shared ownership offers an affordable route into homeownership that might otherwise be out of reach.
The scheme is now more flexible than ever, with lower entry requirements, a growing resale market, and no obligation to staircase. Understanding how shared ownership really works can help you decide whether it’s the right option for your circumstances.
