AIBU to think this is my only way out to get on the property ladder now?
I'm 41, unhappy marriage, considering how to leave. 2 large dogs. No kids.
Rentals in Devon and Cornwall (I live on the border) are nonexistent and especially impossible with pets.
I can save a few grand over the next year or so - I might be able to ask family for some help as a "gift" - to get together a small deposit for a shared ownership property.
I've looked at the prices in the areas I could live (in order to still be within visiting distance of friends) and I could afford the mortgage, rent and upkeep etc. It's still less than most rental houses. A flat is not something I want to live in again if I can avoid it unless it has a secure private garden attached to it for the dogs. I want them to have room to potter about.
No way I can save 10% of £220k and get out in this decade - the average house in my area starts at that price....
Is this my best option? In principle I could move back to Scotland and buy a place for under £50k but I work for the Civil Service (mostly remotely, occasionally travel to South Wales) in England so I think that would cause me issues with my employment. It's not a job that readily transfers over to the Scottish government for various reasons including different legal systems.
AIBU? Is this my best option? Do I need a specialist mortgage advisor and mortgage lender?