Shared ownership helps local dad regain independence and security

whg’s shared ownership programme is helping people take positive steps back onto the property ladder, offering an affordable and flexible route into home ownership. For 34-year-old Luke, shared ownership has provided independence, stability and a permanent home for himself and his son.

Before moving into his new shared ownership home, Luke was living with his parents after separating from his previous partner. While he had previously owned a home, buying outright on a single income was no longer affordable.

“Living with my parents at 34 wasn’t something I wanted long term,” Luke said. “Shared ownership felt like a realistic way to get back onto the property ladder when a full mortgage just wasn’t possible.”

Since moving into his new home, Luke says the impact on his life has been significant.

“It’s given me my independence back,” he explained. “Most importantly, it’s given my son a permanent place to live with me, which has made a huge difference to both of our lives.”

Luke’s new home has also exceeded expectations in terms of quality and location.

“The house is brand new and feels like a blank canvas,” he said. “I didn’t have to do any work when I moved in, which was great. The neighbourhood is really quiet too – I live on a private cul-de-sac, so there’s no traffic noise at all.”

While Luke initially had concerns about shared ownership, particularly the idea of paying rent alongside a mortgage, he found the model worked well in practice.

“I’d previously had a full mortgage, so I wasn’t sure how shared ownership would feel,” he said. “But overall, it costs less than renting or having a full mortgage on my own. It’s worked out really well for me.”

One of the biggest benefits Luke highlights is the peace of mind that comes with buying through whg.

“If I’ve had any small issues, like a problem with a door or the toilet, it’s just been one phone call to whg and it’s sorted,” he said. “Knowing whg will take care of any issues in the first 12 months has been really reassuring.”

For more information on shared ownership visit Shared ownership | whg.uk.com (Housing Association)