From renting to owning

How shared ownership can make it possible

If you’re renting right now, you might feel that owning a home is something that’s still years away, or maybe even out of reach completely.

We know how tough it can be to save for a big deposit or keep up with rising house prices. The average house price in the East Midlands in May 2020 was £187,000 and in May 2025 it was £242,000 – nearly a 30% increase.

That’s why we’re highlighting the shared ownership scheme, a practical, affordable way to take your first step onto the property ladder.

With shared ownership, you buy a share of your home (usually between 10% and 75%) and pay rent on the rest. That means:

  • A smaller deposit – because it’s based only on the share you buy
  • Lower monthly costs – compared to buying outright
  • The chance to buy more shares over time until you own 100%.

It’s designed for people who want the security and stability of owning, but can’t afford to buy outright just yet.

How NCHA can help

This year, we’re building 140 shared ownership homes across the East Midlands, with more in the pipeline. Thanks to our strategic partnership with Homes England, and the support of our local authority partners and contractors, we’re building in the places people need them most.

Most of our properties are let at affordable rents to people on local councils’ waiting lists. But for renters ready to take that next step, shared ownership offers a real alternative. You’ll still have the comfort of affordable monthly payments, but with the added benefit of building equity in a home you own.

Plus, our homes are built with the future in mind, energy-efficient, thoughtfully designed, and tailored to the needs of each community.

Take your first step today

If you’ve been renting and want to see how shared ownership could work for you, now’s the time to explore your options. We’re here to guide you through the process and help you find a home that fits your budget, your lifestyle, and your future plans.

search-our-homes to see available homes and learn more.