Getting on the property ladder in London can feel challenging, with rising prices and high deposits. Shared ownership offers a practical solution, allowing you to buy a percentage of a property and pay rent on the remainder. This scheme can make home ownership more accessible, but it also has its own legal considerations.
At Bird & Co, our solicitors have extensive experience in shared ownership conveyancing across London. Whether you are buying your first share, staircasing to increase your ownership, or selling a shared ownership home, we can provide clear, reliable advice at every stage.
We will handle the lease review, liaise with housing associations and lenders, and ensure all legal documents are properly managed.
With our online conveyancing service, you can complete the process quickly and conveniently, wherever you are in London. We make shared ownership straightforward, transparent, and stress-free.
Bird & Co - Specialist shared ownership solicitors in London
To get in touch with one of our shared ownership solicitors covering London, you can give us a call or fill in our online enquiry form.
What is shared ownership?
Shared ownership is a Government-backed scheme designed to make home ownership more affordable, especially for first-time buyers.
Instead of purchasing a property outright, you buy a share, usually between 25% and 75%, and pay rent on the remaining portion to a housing association.
Over time, you may have the option to buy further shares, a process known as staircasing, until you eventually own the property in full.
Shared ownership can reduce the size of your deposit and mortgage, opening the door to home ownership for those who may otherwise find it challenging to get onto the property ladder.
Our shared ownership services in London
Buying a shared ownership property in London
Buying a shared ownership property in London can be a practical way to get onto the housing ladder without needing the full deposit or mortgage for a home in the capital.
Under the scheme, you purchase a share of the property and pay rent on the rest, with the option to buy more shares later.
Our shared ownership solicitors in London are here to guide you through the process, ensuring the legal details are handled efficiently.
With our online conveyancing service, you can complete the purchase from anywhere, saving time while receiving expert advice you can trust.
Selling a shared ownership property in London
Selling a shared ownership property in London can be a more complex process, so having the right legal support is essential.
Our specialist solicitors are highly experienced in shared ownership sales and can guide you whether you are selling your share or purchasing the housing association’s share before selling the property outright.
We will handle every stage on your behalf, from liaising with the housing provider to managing contracts and ensuring your obligations are met.
With our efficient online conveyancing service, you can complete your sale smoothly, wherever you are based. Contact us today for expert shared ownership lease advice in London.
Staircasing: Increasing your share in a property
Staircasing allows shared ownership buyers to increase the proportion of their property that they own, reducing the rent they pay to the housing association and moving closer to full ownership.
You can usually buy additional shares in stages, depending on your finances and the terms of your lease.
Our specialist staircasing solicitors in London can guide you through the staircasing process, advising on affordability, preparing the necessary documentation, and liaising with the housing association on your behalf.
Shared ownership leases and legal considerations
When buying a shared ownership property, the lease can be more complex than standard arrangements, often setting out rules around rent reviews, staircasing, repairs, and what happens when you come to sell.
It is important to fully understand these terms before you commit, as they can affect your long-term costs and flexibility.
Our experienced shared ownership solicitors in London can carefully review your lease, explain the implications in plain English, and flag any potential risks.
How our London solicitors can help with shared ownership transactions
Shared ownership transactions can feel more complex than standard purchases, with housing associations, leases, and staircasing provisions all adding extra layers to the process.
Our affordable housing solicitors in London are here to make it more manageable. We will guide you through every stage, from checking your eligibility for the scheme to reviewing the lease terms, liaising with lenders and housing associations, and ensuring your legal documents are in order.
Because we specialise in shared ownership, we know the common pitfalls and how to avoid them. With Bird & Co, you will have clear advice, responsive support, and the reassurance that your transaction is in safe hands.
Frequently asked questions about shared ownership in London
What is the typical timeline for the conveyancing process for a shared ownership property in London?
On average, the conveyancing process for a shared ownership property in London takes around two months.
Timescales can vary depending on mortgage arrangements, housing association requirements, and the speed at which documents are finalised. A solicitor helps keep the process moving and avoids unnecessary delays.
What documents will I need to provide to my solicitor for a shared ownership purchase in London?
You will usually need proof of identity, proof of address, mortgage offer documents, details of your deposit, and any information from the housing association.
Your solicitor will confirm exactly what is required and ensure everything is in place for a smooth transaction.
What is the role of a shared ownership solicitor when buying additional shares (staircasing) in London?
Your solicitor will review the terms of the lease, liaise with the housing association, handle Land Registry updates, and manage the transfer of funds.
We will ensure the staircasing process is legally compliant and that your ownership rights are properly recorded.
What is the process for conveyancing a new build shared ownership property in London?
Conveyancing for new build shared ownership properties involves reviewing leases, checking planning permissions, and confirming building warranties.
Your solicitor will also deal with strict completion deadlines set by developers and housing associations, helping you complete on time with no hidden risks.
How does a solicitor help with the specific legal aspects of a London shared ownership leasehold property?
Shared ownership properties are almost always leasehold. Your solicitor will check the lease terms carefully, advise on service charges and ground rent, and ensure you understand your rights and obligations.
This protects you from unexpected costs and ensures the lease is fair and workable.
Contact our shared ownership conveyancing solicitors in London today
To get in touch with one of our solicitors specialising in shared ownership in London, you can give us a call or fill in our online enquiry form.