Shared ownership?

[moominmama86]

Has anyone got any experiences of applying for/getting a shared-ownership property? I've looked at various housing association websites but am still a bit in the dark.

Is it best to get yourself on council housing waiting lists before applying for shared ownership? And can you only get on the council lists for the area you actually live now or - e.g. if I'm happy to live in any part of south or east London - could I get on other council lists? As a single parent of one ds and working part-time I'd really like to get a place of my own in the next year or so but don't know if this is feasible.

Sorry if these are really stupid questions. I don't have any experience of this and don't really know where to start. Any info really appreciated!

Try Metropolitan Homeownership here who have a number of properties like this in all over London. Lambeth in particular seems to have lots on offer. We recently bought a shared ownership flat through them and are absolutely thrilled with it. Not only are we 'on the ladder' but it is so much nicer than anything we could have afforded otherwise and in a great location. Their only specific criteria is that you fit within an income bracket - ie you can prove you can afford it but don't earn 'too much' and can prove you have savings to pay for the solicitors fees etc. We needed about £4000 up front for our flat but I think you could do it with £2000 if you got a 100% mortgage for your share. It also helps if you are already living or working in the borough you are applying for. They would definitely give you priority if you were on the council lists already I think.

Have you tried Wandle Housing association who are also meant to be good. The cover Wandsworth mostly I think.

Thanks beinghelpful! Have just looked at my local council housing register form and will apply to get on the list that way although I think I will be a long way down (my current situation, although sometimes difficult, is comfortable and secure so would not be anyone's idea of needing priority attention - and rightly so).

I do have some savings which is a bonus, although my current salary would not be enough for shared ownership, I don't think. But the first step is to get myself on the right lists and maybe see where we go from there!