Navigating your first property purchase? Discover resale shared ownership, an integral component of the first time buyer scheme. This insightful guide contrasts it with schemes like what will replace help to buy and what is build to rent, offering a panoramic view of your home-buying options. Uncover how this approach could open doors to an affordable, dream home, perfectly suited to your unique needs and aspirations.
What is resale shared ownership?
Defining resale shared ownership
Resale shared ownership occurs when an existing shared owner wishes to sell their portion of a property. Unlike typical home sales, the sale involves only a part of the property's full market value.
As a buyer, you're purchasing a share from the current owner, while paying rent on the remaining portion. This arrangement makes entering the housing market more attainable for you, especially if your income limits options for full ownership.
How it differs from new build shared ownership
Resale shared ownership and new build shared ownership are siblings with distinct traits. In resale shared ownership, you're buying an existing lease from a current owner. The property has already been lived in and the price reflects the open market's valuation. Contrastingly, new build shared ownership involves purchasing a share of a property off plan or just after construction.
This type of ownership often appeals to those who fancy starting fresh, but it may come with longer wait times and uncertainty about the finished product. Resale properties, being pre-owned, offer a quicker route to homeownership with a clear picture of what you're buying into.
Eligibility for resale shared ownership
Criteria for becoming a shared owner
Resale shared ownership homes present a different route into homeownership. To qualify as a shared owner, you'll need to meet specific criteria. Typically, you must be at least 18 years old and your annual household income should not exceed a set threshold. This threshold varies depending on your location in the UK and the price of the property you're interested in.
Additionally, priority is often given to first-time buyers, or those who once owned a home but can't afford to buy one now due to circumstances like divorce or downsizing. If you're already a shared owner looking to move, you might also be eligible. Before proceeding, contacting your local HomeBuy agent can provide clarity and personalized advice.
Understanding household income requirements
Your household income plays a pivotal role in determining eligibility for buying a resale shared ownership home. This scheme is tailored to help those with moderate incomes access the property market. As a potential buyer, your total household income should usually fall below a certain limit. This limit ensures the scheme remains accessible to those who need it most.
Remember, the income assessment will include the total income of all home occupants. It's not just about your salary; other income sources, such as bonuses or freelance work, count too. Being aware of these details is key. After all, you're aiming for an affordable home, and fitting within these income brackets helps in securing a shared ownership home that suits your monthly outgoings.
Finding the right resale shared ownership property
Searching for available resale homes
Resale homes in shared ownership schemes often present unique opportunities. These properties previously belonged to shared owners who have now decided to move on. You'll typically find these options listed by housing associations or through specialist resales teams. Their availability depends on current owners choosing to sell their share.
When searching for a resale home, start with housing associations' websites. These often list available shared ownership properties, including resales. Online property portals and estate agents also showcase shared ownership resales, giving you a broader spectrum of options.
Always check if the property is part of a resale shared ownership scheme and remember that buying a resale means purchasing at least the share that the current owner bought.
Comparing older properties vs. new builds
Deciding between an older resale property and a new build requires consideration of several factors. Older resale shared ownership properties might come at a lower price compared to new builds. However, they may also incur higher service charges due to age-related maintenance needs.
Service charges are a recurring cost, encompassing maintenance of shared spaces and sometimes building insurance. Resale properties might have established communities, offering a clearer picture of the neighbourhood and lifestyle. New builds, conversely, often feature modern design and energy efficiency but might lack the community feel of established areas.
Older properties might offer the chance to buy more shares, known as staircasing, earlier than in new builds. This can be advantageous if your long-term goal is to increase your ownership percentage. On the other hand, new builds often come with warranties and less immediate upkeep, which can be appealing if you prefer a more straightforward initial homeownership experience.
Assessing your priorities and financial situation helps in making this decision. Do you value community and potential cost savings over modern amenities and lower initial maintenance? Weighing these factors against the rent and service charge, legal fees, and the possibility of purchasing further shares will guide your choice.