LEGAL
When buying a home, it’s easy to assume that any high street solicitor offering conveyancing services can handle the process. However, affordable housing products such as Shared Ownership, equity loans, and discounted purchase schemes require a level of expertise that many general conveyancers simply don’t have. Bevin Woby, Director at Shared Direction Conveyancing, explains Why Choose a Specialist Solicitor for Affordable Housing Purchases?
Affordable housing has grown in popularity in recent years, but it still represents a relatively small part of the housing market. As a result, most solicitors rarely deal with these transactions and often view them as more complex than standard conveyancing. In truth, they’re not wrong; affordable housing purchases involve unique challenges that demand specialist knowledge. WHY IS AFFORDABLE HOUSING CONVEYANCING MORE COMPLEX? There are several reasons why these transactions differ from traditional home purchases: 9 Specialised Lease Terms: Shared Ownership leases include provisions that you won’t find in standard leases, requiring careful attention to detail. 9 Mortgage Approval Requirements: Lenders and housing associations impose stricter conditions, and mortgages often need prior approval from the housing provider. 9 Extensive Legal Documentation: New build properties come with detailed paperwork. While this is often similar across plots, solicitors familiar with the development can process it more efficiently. THE RISK OF HIGHER COSTS AND DELAYS Some mortgage lenders restrict affordable housing cases to a select panel of trusted solicitors. If you choose a solicitor without this expertise, you may face unexpected costs, such as paying both your solicitor’s fees and your lender’s legal fees. Additionally, housing associations and mortgage brokers often recommend specialist firms because they understand
less than general solicitors for these transactions, and they help you avoid duplicate legal fees. Affordable housing purchases involve unique legal considerations that most high street solicitors rarely encounter. By choosing a specialist, you gain peace of mind, save money, and ensure your transaction progresses smoothly; keeping in line with the timelines set by your housing association or developer. Shared Direction Conveyancing is the only law firm in the UK dedicated solely to acting for purchasers of new build and Shared Ownership properties. If you are buying a new build or Shared Ownership property, Shared Direction Conveyancing is your ideal choice of law firm to share your journey into homeownership, as we have the experience and expertise to guide you through the process as quickly and simply as possible.
the nuances of these schemes. Buyers sometimes hesitate to use recommended solicitors, fearing a
lack of independence. This concern is understandable, but it’s important to remember that solicitors are legally bound to act in your best interests. Choosing a local high street firm might feel more comfortable, but if they lack experience with affordable housing, the process could take longer and cost more.
THE BENEFITS OF USING A SPECIALIST
Working with a solicitor who specialises in affordable housing, or one approved by your housing association or lender, offers clear advantages: 9 Expertise: They know the schemes inside out and can navigate complex requirements with ease. 9 Efficiency: Familiarity with standard documents and processes means quicker turnaround times. 9 Cost Savings: Specialists often charge
For further information visit sdc-legal.co.uk or for an instant quotation call 0808 273 0273
86 First Time Buyer February/March 2026
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