Buying shared ownership in St Helens: a guide for first time buyers

Introduction

Shared ownership gives many first time buyers a realistic and affordable route onto the property ladder in England and Wales. It reduces the deposit and mortgage requirement, lowers initial monthly outgoings and lets buyers build equity gradually by staircasing. This guide explains the legal framework that applies in England and Wales, focuses on the benefits of buying shared ownership, and provides St Helens‑specific information to help you decide whether the tenure suits your plans. You will find practical steps to buy, budgeting advice, highlights and things to do in St Helens, a local demographic snapshot and a market overview including typical property prices.

What shared ownership is

Shared ownership allows you to purchase a share of a home, commonly between 25% and 75%, and pay rent on the remainder to a housing association or registered provider. You take a mortgage on the share you buy and pay rent and often service charges for communal or estate maintenance. Most schemes let you buy further shares over time in a process known as staircasing until you own the property outright if the lease allows. The lease sets out key terms such as rent reviews, service charge obligations, repair responsibilities and the staircasing procedure.

Legal framework in England and Wales

Shared ownership operates within statutory and contractual rules intended to protect buyers and providers. You should understand the main legal features before committing.

Leasehold basis and lease terms

Providers normally sell shared ownership homes on a long lease, often 999 or 125 years for modern schemes. The lease records your initial share, rent payable on the unsold share, service charge liabilities, any ground rent and restrictions such as subletting rules. You must check the length of the remaining lease because short leases can affect mortgageability and value.

Staircasing and valuations

Most leases include a staircasing clause that explains how to buy additional shares, how valuers will calculate the price and what notice you must give. Valuations for staircasing usually follow RICS standards. You pay professional valuation and legal fees when you staircase.

Resale procedures and nomination rights

When you sell, most providers have a nomination period to offer the home to eligible applicants from their waiting list or to find a buyer who meets the scheme rules. If they cannot find a buyer within the nomination period you normally have wider marketing rights subject to the lease. The lease may set out minimum marketing periods and price procedures.

Consumer protections and disclosure

Providers must give clear information about charges, planned major works and lease terms. You retain the same consumer protections for conveyancing and surveys as in full market transactions. A specialist solicitor experienced in shared ownership should review the lease and advise on liabilities and SDLT treatment.

Leasehold reform and ground rent

Recent reforms have restricted exploitative ground rents in many new leases and increased transparency for leaseholders in England and Wales. Nevertheless you should read your lease carefully for any ground rent clauses, estate charges or service charge arrangements that could change over time.

Stamp Duty Land Tax

SDLT rules apply to shared ownership purchases. Depending on the share you buy and the structure of the transaction you may pay SDLT on the share you purchase or you may defer part of the SDLT until you staircase. Your solicitor will advise on current SDLT treatment and any reliefs that may apply.

Why shared ownership suits first time buyers

Lower deposit and initial mortgage borrowing

Because you buy only a share you need a smaller deposit and a smaller mortgage. Many first time buyers qualify for a mortgage more quickly and move into a home sooner than they would if they tried to buy outright.

More affordable monthly outgoings

Your combined monthly outgoings—mortgage plus rent—often prove lower than a mortgage on the full market value of the same property. Lower monthly costs make it easier to budget for bills, council tax and savings for future staircasing.

Step by step route to full ownership

You can increase your share over time. Each staircasing purchase builds equity and cuts the rent component. Many buyers plan a staged approach to reach full ownership when circumstances allow.

Access to new build and managed developments

Housing associations commonly supply new build shared ownership homes with modern energy efficient fittings and warranties. New builds usually carry a lower risk of early maintenance issues and frequently sit in developments with planned management.

Security and local allocation

Shared ownership gives secure leasehold occupation provided you meet your obligations. Providers often prioritise applicants with a local connection which helps local people stay in the area.

Potential drawbacks to consider

Rent and service charges

You will pay rent on the unsold share and likely pay service charges for communal maintenance, building insurance and estate management. Rent reviews and rising service charges can increase ongoing costs so ask for recent accounts and explanations of likely future works.

Leasehold and remaining term

Shared ownership usually uses leasehold tenure. A short remaining lease can hamper mortgage lending and resale value. If the lease has less than 80 years remaining you should seek legal advice because the cost of extending the lease can rise significantly as the term shortens.

Resale procedures and potential delays

When you sell your share the provider’s nomination period can limit the initial pool of buyers and lengthen the sale process. That feature may affect your timing for relocating or staircasing.

Staircasing costs and administration

Buying additional shares triggers valuation fees, legal fees and possibly mortgage product costs. You must include these expenses in your longer term affordability plan.

Eligibility and local restrictions

Providers set eligibility rules that commonly include household income caps, local connection criteria and priority for first time buyers or those in housing need. Confirm eligibility with the provider early.

How to apply and buy shared ownership in St Helens

Check eligibility and local schemes

Contact housing associations active in St Helens and the regional Help to Buy agent to verify local criteria. Providers often prioritise local connection by residency employment or family ties.

Search available properties

Look on provider websites, property portals and local estate agents for shared ownership listings. New housing developments and regeneration projects frequently include shared ownership units.

Obtain mortgage advice and a mortgage in principle

Talk to mortgage advisers who understand shared ownership. Lenders assess affordability on the share you plan to buy and on the combined cost of mortgage and rent. Getting a mortgage in principle helps when making an offer.

Apply to the provider and reserve

Submit the provider’s application with proof of identity, income and local connection where required. If accepted you reserve the property and pay any reservation fee.

Instruct a specialist solicitor

Use a conveyancer experienced in shared ownership. They will check the lease, confirm SDLT liability, advise on service charges and ensure the provider has complied with disclosure obligations.

Survey and valuation

Arrange a survey to check the property’s condition and a lender valuation for mortgage purposes. Even new builds benefit from snagging checks and appropriate surveys.

Exchange, complete and register

Exchange contracts, pay the deposit for your share and complete the purchase. Your solicitor registers the lease and mortgage at HM Land Registry and you move into your home.

Plan staircasing and ongoing management

Budget for rent, service charges and maintenance. When you decide to buy more shares follow the lease procedure for valuations and notices and instruct a solicitor for the legal work.

Registering with a housing association.

To register with a housing association, start by identifying the specific housing association in your area that meets your needs. Visit their official website or contact their offices to obtain information about the registration process. Typically, you’ll need to complete an application form, which can often be done online or in person. Be prepared to provide personal details, including your identification, proof of income, and any relevant references. After submitting your application, the housing association may conduct an interview or assessment to determine your eligibility based on their criteria. Once approved, you’ll be placed on their waiting list for housing opportunities. Always ensure to keep your contact information updated and check in periodically for updates on your application status.

How to find current releases in St Helens

Register with the housing associations that operate locally, local estate agents and with national shared ownership portals (we provide some handy details below). Watch the council’s planning releases and developer launch notices. Register early, obtain a mortgage in principle and keep eligibility documents up to date to improve your chances when limited releases come to market.

Here’s a list of some of the major Housing Associations operating in and around the area

Riverside Group — A large national housing group founded in the North West, owning and managing a diverse mix of affordable rented and shared‑ownership homes. It delivers care, supported housing and regeneration services, runs major regional development programmes and combines property management with community investment to strengthen neighbourhoods and expand affordable housing supply.

Regenda Group — A Liverpool‑based social landlord and regeneration organisation focused on improving housing and local economies in deprived communities. It develops and manages affordable homes, delivers neighbourhood services, supports employment and skills initiatives and undertakes place‑based regeneration to raise living standards, tackle blight and create sustainable opportunities for residents and local businesses.

Great Places Housing Group — A Manchester‑rooted housing association providing affordable rented and shared‑ownership homes alongside supported housing and community investment across Greater Manchester and neighbouring areas. It prioritises neighbourhood improvement, tenant support services and new development, working with partners to regenerate estates, enhance local services and promote long‑term social and economic inclusion.

One Manchester — A Community‑focused social landlord operating primarily in Manchester, offering social and affordable homes, tenancy and support services and neighbourhood programmes. It invests in local regeneration projects, employment and wellbeing initiatives and tenant engagement, aiming to create safe, connected communities and improve residents’ quality of life through integrated housing and support provision.

Irwell Valley Homes — A Bury‑based association delivering affordable homes, care and support services and local regeneration projects across north‑west boroughs. It emphasises tenant engagement and neighbourhood improvement, combining housing management with targeted community initiatives, supported living and regeneration schemes to enhance local environments and help residents sustain tenancies and access opportunities.

Progress Housing Group — A regional housing association operating across Lancashire and the North West, providing affordable and supported housing, responsive repairs and housing management. Active in new‑build development and community services, it focuses on customer service, tenancy sustainability and local partnerships to deliver quality homes, support vulnerable tenants and drive neighbourhood renewal.

Peaks & Plains Housing Trust — A Cheshire‑focused landlord offering affordable homes and associated services across rural and urban areas. It emphasises local community engagement and place‑based solutions, balancing maintenance and development of stock with neighbourhood initiatives, tenancy support and targeted investment to meet diverse housing needs in smaller towns and countryside communities.

Home Group — A large national housing association owning and managing affordable homes across England and Scotland, known for supported housing and specialist services alongside mainstream social and affordable housing. It provides tailored support for vulnerable people, develops new homes, and combines national scale with local delivery to address homelessness, social care needs and long‑term housing stability.

Sovereign Network Group — One of the UK’s larger providers, managing an extensive national portfolio of affordable rented and shared‑ownership homes. It operates regional development, repairs and resident support services, focuses on delivering quality homes at scale and runs programmes to improve customer experience, investment in stock, and community wellbeing across its operational areas.

Clarion Housing Group — The UK’s largest housing association by stock, offering social and affordable homes, development and broad support services. It runs extensive resident engagement and investment programmes, delivers large‑scale development and refurbishment, and seeks to combine housing provision with community initiatives to improve neighbourhoods and support vulnerable tenants across England, including activity in the North West.

Torus — A major North West social landlord with roots in Liverpool, Wirral and Stockport, managing thousands of homes and focused on neighbourhood investment, tenant services and local regeneration. It delivers large development and refurbishment programmes, supports tenant engagement and employability initiatives, and prioritises place‑based projects to strengthen communities and improve housing quality.

Onward Homes — A large housing association operating across the North West and beyond, providing affordable housing, development and community services. It focuses on modernising homes, improving energy efficiency and tenant services, while delivering new‑build programmes and neighbourhood regeneration to support sustainable communities and enhance residents’ living standards.

Magenta Living — A regional landlord serving Warrington and surrounding Cheshire areas, managing social and affordable housing alongside neighbourhood and support services. It emphasises local regeneration, tenant involvement and responsive housing management, delivering repairs, community initiatives and development projects tailored to local needs and aimed at improving tenancy outcomes and neighbourhood cohesion.

South Lakes Housing — A specialist landlord for South Lakeland, providing affordable homes, housing management and community support in predominantly rural and small‑town areas. Focused on local needs and tenancy sustainment, it combines sensitive rural estate management, customer service and place‑based initiatives to tackle isolation, maintain housing standards and support local communities.

Your Housing Group — A regional landlord managing homes and offering support and development services across Merseyside and neighbouring areas. It focuses on resident services, neighbourhood investment and growth, combining housing management, repairs and community projects with efforts to improve tenancy sustainability, employment opportunities and local environmental improvements.

Jigsaw Housing Group — A North West housing association managing homes and delivering development and community services across Greater Manchester and Lancashire. It runs supported housing, neighbourhood investment and employment support programmes, focuses on tenant engagement and service improvement, and pursues development and regeneration projects to expand affordable housing and strengthen local communities.

L&Q — One of England’s largest housing associations and developers, L&Q provides affordable homes, shared ownership, and market housing across the country. It focuses on neighborhood regeneration, mixed-tenure developments, and customer services including repairs and support for vulnerable tenants. L&Q also invests in sustainability and large-scale building programmes.

Lloyds Living — Lloyds Living is a regional social landlord managing affordable rented homes and care-related housing services, often collaborating with local councils and health partners. It emphasizes tenant wellbeing, responsive maintenance, and community engagement. The association supports older people and those with support needs while delivering modest development and estate-management activities locally.

Places for People — Places for People is a large, diversified housing, regeneration and property services group delivering affordable homes, market housing, and community services. Active nationally and regionally, it combines development, asset management, and wellbeing programmes to regenerate neighbourhoods, provide supported housing, and deliver commercial property and facilities management services.

Portals which list shared ownership properties in St Helens

Share to Buy

A leading UK property portal dedicated to affordable homeownership schemes including Shared Ownership and Rent to Buy. It offers a wide selection of shared ownership homes nationwide, along with guides, affordability calculators, and connections to mortgage brokers and legal experts to assist buyers.

Home Reach

Home Reach is a specific shared ownership scheme platform offering properties where buyers can purchase shares up to 75% and pay rent on the remainder. It features new builds primarily in England, advertises available homes by area, and provides educational webinars on shared ownership.

Rightmove

The UK’s largest property portal for sales, aggregating listings from estate agents and new-build developers across the country. Features extensive search filters, market data (sold prices, trends) and tools for buyers and sellers.

Zoopla

Major UK property site combining estate-agent listings with market insights, price estimates, and local area data. Offers tools for searching homes for sale, comparing prices and contacting agents.

OnTheMarket

A UK portal that publishes estate-agent listings with a focus on simplicity and timely marketing (many listings appear here 24 hours before other portals). Provides property search and agent contact details for sales.

Register your Interest with Local Agents

It’s not uncommon for agents to list shared ownership resales. Here’s a list of some of the agents operating in the area, many of whom deal with shared ownership.

– Ashtons Estate Agency: Leading St Helens estate agent with branches on Hardshaw Street and Kiln Lane, Ashtons holds the largest market share across the borough. It handles high volumes of sales and lettings, offering broad local market knowledge, proactive marketing, and wide client reach, making it the most active and visible agency in the area.

– David Davies Sales & Lettings: Based on Church Road, Rainford, David Davies is highly prominent locally, specializing in Rainford and nearby communities. The agency focuses on personalised service, strong community ties, and expertise in suburban and village properties, delivering tailored sales and lettings solutions with deep knowledge of local demand and pricing.

– Stapleton Derby: Stapleton Derby on Corporation Street is a large independent agency that has expanded to multiple branches across St Helens. It combines local expertise with scalable operations, offering comprehensive sales, lettings, and valuation services. The firm emphasizes community relationships, proactive property promotion, and consistent regional growth through branch development and client service.

– Belvoir: Located on Claughton Street, Belvoir is a well-known national franchise operating locally and incorporating JB&B Leach. It provides standardised franchise systems alongside established local knowledge, covering sales and lettings with professional processes, national marketing reach, and franchise-backed support—appealing to clients seeking recognised brand consistency with local familiarity.

– Little Estate Agents: Situated on Bridge Street, Little Estate Agents maintains a strong local presence and consistently high property inventory. The agency focuses on hands-on, community-oriented service, frequent stock turnover, and responsive client communication. Its local reputation and steady listings make it a dependable choice for vendors and buyers seeking active market exposure in St Helens.

– Entwistle Green: Entwistle Green on Hardshaw Street operates as part of the wider Countrywide network, offering integrated sales and lettings services. The agency leverages national systems and local agents to provide broad marketing channels, professional property management, and valuation expertise, appealing to clients who want franchise-level resources combined with local market insight.

– Reeds Rains: Reeds Rains on Barrow Street is a nationally recognised chain with a solid footprint in the WA10 postcode. It delivers standardised, professional estate agency services across sales and lettings, benefiting from national branding, extensive marketing reach, and structured processes—suitable for clients seeking consistent service and broad exposure within and beyond St Helens.

– Burns & Reid: Burns & Reid in Windle is a highly rated independent agency handling significant residential sales and lettings. Known for strong client feedback, local market expertise, and personalised service, the firm focuses on effective property promotion, attentive management, and tailored advice, attracting sellers and landlords who prioritise hands-on, reputable independents.

– Leaders: Leaders at Linkway West is a large national lettings and estate agency with a major St Helens branch. The firm specialises in lettings alongside sales, offering scalable property management, tenant sourcing, and compliance services backed by national infrastructure. It suits landlords and investors seeking professional, process-driven lettings solutions and regional coverage.

– Think Estate Agents: Think Estate Agents on Clipsley Lane is a local agency offering sales and lettings services across St Helens. Emphasising personalised attention, pragmatic marketing, and local market understanding, the firm focuses on efficient transactions and responsive client support, appealing to vendors, buyers, and landlords who value straightforward, community-rooted estate agency service.

New-build and shared ownership developments

St Helens has seen a steady flow of new development and regeneration projects in recent years. Developers and housing associations often include shared ownership allocations to meet planning requirements and local housing need. The following developments represent active or recently released new-build shared ownership opportunities often available in and around the area, capability brownfield sites, and suburban regeneration pockets.

Kingfisher Point (Providence Avenue, Moss Nook, WA9 3EF)

This major scheme by Torus Homes forms the third phase of the Moss Nook area regeneration, delivering 111 shared ownership homes with 2, 3, and 4-bedroom layouts. The homes include sustainable features like air source heat pumps and solar panels.

Park Grange (Off Elephant Lane, Thatto Heath, WA9 5PG)

Developed by Torus Homes in partnership with Vistry, this £34 million brownfield regeneration scheme features 83 homes dedicated to shared ownership and rent-to-buy options. It recently welcomed its first residents.

Kilnbrook Place (Chester Lane, WA9 4QD)

Managed by Onward Living, this new build development offers modern 2 and 3-bedroom houses (like ‘The Asher’ and ‘The Robin’) for shared ownership equity shares ranging from 35% to 75%.

The Glassworks (Lancots Lane, Sutton, WA9 3GL)

A charming addition to the Sutton community by Torus Homes, this site features 96 shared ownership homes, including modern 2, 3, and 4-bedroom houses.

Crossgate Park (Off Rutland Street, Windle)

This Torus Homes new build offers 2, 3, and 4-bedroom family houses available under affordable ownership models.

Why St Helens may suit first time buyers

St Helens combines affordability with improving local amenities and strong connections to Liverpool and Manchester. Developers have built new housing and local regeneration projects have upgraded town centre facilities. The borough offers a mix of town, suburban and semi rural neighbourhoods which suit different lifestyles. Shared ownership helps first time buyers buy into newly built or renovated homes in convenient locations while keeping initial costs manageable.

St Helens highlights and things to do

Parks, green spaces and outdoor life

St Helens offers many parks including Victoria Park and Mesnes Park which provide playgrounds, sports facilities and open green spaces for families. Nearby countryside and canal routes give easy access to walking and cycling.

Cultural venues and heritage

Visit The Citadel Arts Centre, theatres and local galleries for events and performances. The World of Glass museum in the town centre explores the area’s industrial heritage and runs family friendly exhibitions.

Shopping and leisure

St Helens town centre and shopping centres provide high street retailers, independent shops and cafes. Local leisure centres run fitness classes, swimming and community sport.

Sporting life

Attend rugby league matches or support local sports clubs. St Helens has a strong sporting culture which boosts community spirit and provides regular local events.

Food and drink

Try independent cafes, gastropubs and restaurants which serve a mix of local and international cuisine across the borough.

Day trips and nearby attractions

You can reach Liverpool city centre in 25 to 40 minutes by road or rail for cultural attractions, shopping and nightlife. The Peak District and Lancashire countryside sit within a reasonable drive for weekend trips.

Transport and commuting

Rail and Metrolink links

St Helens benefits from several rail stations with services into Liverpool, Warrington and Manchester. Frequent local trains support commuting and offer alternatives to car travel.

Road connections

The M6, M57 and M62 motorways sit within easy reach providing direct routes to Manchester, Liverpool, the M56 and the national motorway network.

Bus services and active travel

Local bus services connect communities across the borough and to neighbouring towns. The relatively compact layout encourages cycling and walking for short journeys.

Local demographic profile

Population and household mix

St Helens attracts a mix of families, professionals and older residents. You will find both long established communities and younger households moving into new developments. The borough offers a range of household sizes from single occupants and sharers to growing families.

Employment and commuting patterns

Local employment covers manufacturing, logistics, retail, public services and health care. Many residents commute to Liverpool, Manchester and Warrington for work. Recent regeneration has encouraged growth in professional services and distribution centres.

Age structure and community life

The borough displays a balanced age profile with active community groups, voluntary organisations, sports clubs and faith organisations that support local life. Shared ownership attracts younger households looking for a stable base close to family and employment.

Average property prices in St Helens

Overview of market levels

Property prices in St Helens generally remain more affordable than nearby Liverpool and many Greater Manchester suburbs. Exact figures change with market movement so check current local listings and estate agents for up to date numbers. Typical patterns include:

Flats and apartments

Entry level flats and apartments often appear in town centre conversions and new build schemes and suit single buyers or couples. Shared ownership offers an accessible route into these properties.

Terraced houses

Traditional terraced homes occur across the borough and often provide good value for first time buyers and local families.

Semi detached houses

Semis with gardens and parking attract families seeking more space and may cost more than terraces while remaining affordable compared with larger urban centres.

Detached houses

Detached homes and larger family properties appear in suburban and semi rural parts of the borough and sit at the higher end of the local market.

Indicative pricing

As a broad guide, entry level flats can sit well below the regional average, terraces often offer affordable family options and semis occupy the mid range of the market. For accurate and current pricing seek local estate agents and property portals for sold price data and recent comparable sales.

How to budget for shared ownership

Deposit and mortgage costs

Prepare a deposit based on the share you buy. Aim for at least 5% to 10% of the share though some lenders offer lower deposit products.

Rent and service charges

Include monthly rent on the unsold share and service charges for communal maintenance, building insurance and management where applicable.

Running costs

Budget for council tax, utilities, contents insurance, ongoing maintenance and unexpected repairs. Shared ownership does not remove normal homeowner responsibilities.

Fees and taxes

Plan for conveyancing fees, valuation costs, surveys and potential Stamp Duty Land Tax treatment. Expect costs when staircasing including valuation and legal fees.

Future staircasing costs

Set aside funds for future staircasing purchases. Each staircasing event needs valuation, legal work and may require additional borrowing.

Tips for choosing the right shared ownership property

Read the lease carefully

Check staircasing rights, rent review mechanisms and any restrictions such as subletting rules. Confirm whether the lease permits buying to 100%.

Ask for service charge accounts

Providers should give recent service charge accounts and details of planned major works so you can forecast likely future charges.

Check remaining lease length

Aim for a long remaining lease to preserve mortgageability and resale value. Discuss lease extension options with your solicitor if terms look short.

Inspect the property at different times

Visit at mornings, evenings and weekends to judge noise, traffic and local activity.

Speak to existing residents

They can provide honest views about management and common issues in the development.

Obtain a suitable survey

Even new builds benefit from a surveyor’s inspection to identify defects or snagging items early.

Selling or staircasing later on

Valuation standards and timing

Valuations for staircasing and resale typically follow RICS guidance and reflect current market conditions.

Provider nomination periods

Expect providers to have a nomination window when you sell. That period may affect the speed of sale and potential buyer pool.

Costs on sale and staircasing

Prepare for valuation fees, legal costs and possible estate agent fees on sale. Staircasing triggers similar professional fees.

Benefits of Using Alexander JLO Solicitors for Shared Ownership Conveyancing

When it comes to navigating the unique complexities of shared ownership properties, choosing Alexander JLO Solicitors offers a significant advantage. Our specialisation in shared ownership conveyancing means that you benefit from a team of legal experts who understand the nuances of this property type. Unlike traditional home purchases, shared ownership involves specific eligibility criteria, complex legal arrangements, and unique financial considerations.

At Alexander JLO Solicitors we excel in guiding clients through these complexities, ensuring that every aspect of the process is handled efficiently and accurately. Our extensive knowledge of current regulations and available government schemes allows them to provide invaluable insights tailored to your individual circumstances.

With a focus on client interests, we take the time to explain each step, ensuring you feel informed and confident in your decisions. This expertise helps mitigate risks and can prevent unexpected challenges from arising during the transaction. By choosing Alexander JLO Solicitors, you are not just securing a legal service; you are gaining a partner committed to making your shared ownership journey as smooth and successful as possible and a legal partner for life. Our thorough approach means peace of mind for you as you navigate this important milestone.

Final checklist before committing

Confirm eligibility and any local connection or income caps with the housing provider.

Secure a mortgage in principle for the share you want to buy.

Review the lease thoroughly with a solicitor experienced in shared ownership.

Request recent service charge accounts and ask about planned major works.

Verify the remaining lease length and any ground rent or estate charges.

Visit the property and neighbourhood at different times to check activity and noise.

Budget for rent increases, service charge changes and staircasing fees.

Conclusion

Shared ownership offers many first time buyers in St Helens an achievable route into homeownership. It lowers the initial deposit and mortgage requirement, offers manageable monthly payments and provides a clear pathway to full ownership through staircasing. You must read lease terms carefully, budget for rent and service charges and take specialist mortgage and legal advice. With sensible planning shared ownership in St Helens can deliver long term financial and personal benefits and give you a secure base close to green space, good transport links and growing local amenities.

As with any investment decision, when buying a property it’s vital that you do your homework carefully. As well as fully researching the location and market that you are looking to buy in, it’s vital that you seek advice of experts, including surveyors and financial advisors. Alexander JLO, its Partners and employees cannot provide specific advice on choice of location or the market but can advise on all matters legal once you have made a decision to buy a property.

If you are looking for a first rate conveyancing service why not give one of Alexander JLO’s specialist property lawyers a call on 020 7537 7000, click on the get a quote button or email quote@london-law.co.uk for a free, no-obligation quotation? Come and see what we can do for you.

This blog was prepared by Alexander JLO’s senior partner Matt Johnson on 9th July 2026 and is correct at the date of publication. Matt has many years of experience of dealing with property work and specialises in new build and shared ownership properties.  His profile on the independent Review Solicitor website and be found here