Who is shared equity for?
Shared equity schemes offered by developers have previously only been aimed at first-time buyers, however these scheme are not generally means tested and are therefore available to the wider market. Schemes operated by housing associations are aimed at helping those on low incomes and / or with particular needs and usually require certain criteria to be met in order to apply. These may include the following: • First time buyer • Existing tenant of any local authority or housing association • Disabled homeowner whose current home is no longer suitable for their needs • Existing or previous homeowner unable to sustain, or move back into home ownership due to significant changes in their household circumstances (such as divorce, separation or the death of a spouse) There is also financial assistance available from the Scottish Government via the Open Market Shared Equity Pilot scheme, LIFT. This is operated by a selection of Housing Associations across Scotland including Link Homes and is
