Selling a shared ownership property involves a specific set of procedures that differ from a standard residential sale. Because these homes are part-owned by a housing association, the process is structured to ensure the property remains available for those who need affordable housing.

Whether you are looking to move up the property ladder or your circumstances have changed, understanding the sequence of events is essential for a smooth transition. This guide outlines the professional steps required for selling a shared ownership house effectively.

1. Review Your Lease and Ownership

The first step in the shared ownership resale process is to review your lease agreement. This document contains the specific terms governing how you can sell your share.

Typically, you will need to confirm the percentage of the property you currently own. If you have "staircased" to 100% ownership, the selling process often mirrors a traditional sale. However, if you own a partial share, you must follow the housing association’s specific resale requirements.

It is also worth noting that some properties in "protected areas" may have mandatory buy-back clauses, meaning the housing association must be given the first option to purchase the property back from you.

2. Instruct a RICS Valuation

For almost all shared ownership sales, a formal valuation is a mandatory requirement. Unlike a standard market appraisal from an estate agent, this must be conducted by a surveyor registered with the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS).

Minimalist still life of a RICS surveyor's tools including a laser measuring tool and a clean clipboard with a floorplan.

The RICS valuation determines the full market value of the property. This figure is used to calculate the price of your specific share. Consider the following points regarding the valuation:

  • Fixed Price: You cannot usually sell your share for more than the RICS valuation figure.
  • Validity: These reports typically expire after three months. If the sale takes longer, you may need to pay for a "desktop valuation" or an extension.
  • Cost: You are responsible for the surveyor’s fee, which generally ranges between £250 and £500.

In addition to the valuation, ensure you have a valid Energy Performance Certificate (EPC). If your current EPC has expired, you will need to arrange a new assessment before marketing can begin.

3. Notify the Housing Association

Once you have your valuation, you must formally notify your housing association of your "intention to sell." Most providers have a specific form for this, which will require your valuation report and EPC.

This notification triggers the "nomination period." During this time: which usually lasts between four and eight weeks: the housing association has the "Right of First Refusal." They will attempt to find a buyer from their own waiting list of eligible applicants.

During this period, you are typically not permitted to market the property on the open market or through an external estate agent.

4. Selling on the Open Market

If the housing association does not find a buyer within the nomination period, you are then free to market the property yourself. This is where many homeowners seek a professional partner to ensure their home receives maximum exposure.

A minimalist top-down view of a laptop on a white desk, suggesting a professional digital property listing.

When considering how to sell shared ownership property on the open market, it is important to choose an agent who understands the nuances of the scheme. At PE Homes, we specialise in these types of sales.

Instead of charging a percentage of the sale price: which can cost thousands: we offer a fixed fee of just £500. This service includes:

  • Advertising on major platforms like Rightmove, Zoopla, and Primelocation.
  • Professional photography and detailed floorplans.
  • Management of all viewing requests.
  • Weekly performance reports and buyer feedback.

By using an online-first model, we pass the savings directly to you, allowing you to keep more of your equity for your next move. Our experience with platforms like Share to Buy ensures your property reaches the right audience of eligible buyers.

5. Buyer Eligibility and Approval

Finding a buyer is only one part of the process. In shared ownership, every prospective buyer must be approved by the housing association.

The association will conduct an eligibility check to ensure the buyer meets the criteria for the scheme (for example, their household income must be below a certain threshold). They will also perform an affordability assessment to ensure the buyer can sustain the monthly mortgage and rent payments.

Once the buyer is formally approved, the housing association will issue a "Memorandum of Sale," which allows the legal work to commence.

6. Legal Conveyancing and Completion

The final phase involves the legal transfer of the property. You should instruct a solicitor who has specific experience with shared ownership resales, as the paperwork is more complex than a standard leasehold sale.

A minimalist close-up shot of a modern silver house key resting on a white stone surface.

The conveyancing process includes:

  • Contract Review: Your solicitor will liaise with the buyer’s solicitor and the housing association’s legal team.
  • Management Pack: The housing association will provide a leasehold management pack, for which they usually charge an admin fee.
  • Exchange and Completion: Once all queries are satisfied, contracts are exchanged. On the completion date, the funds are transferred, your mortgage is redeemed, and the keys are handed over.

Many of our clients find this stage the most stressful, which is why we provide dedicated support throughout. As highlighted in our customer testimonials, having a responsive agent can make a significant difference in the speed of the transaction.

Summary Checklist

To ensure your sale progresses methodically, refer to this checklist:

  1. Locate your original lease document.
  2. Check the expiration of your EPC.
  3. Instruct a RICS-qualified surveyor.
  4. Submit the "Intention to Sell" form to your housing association.
  5. Prepare your home for professional photography.
  6. If the nomination period passes, instruct PE Homes for open-market advertising.
  7. Appoint a solicitor with shared ownership expertise.

Following these steps with thoroughness and patience will help you navigate the shared ownership market successfully. If you are ready to begin the process and want to save on traditional estate agency fees, contact our team at PE Homes today.