Buying an affordable home

There are a number of options available for Homeownership across Somerset West and Taunton. These include:

  • Discounted Open Market Housing
  • Shared Ownership

Discounted open market housing

Discounted open market housing is housing provided by the developer at a discount to the full market value. The discount will be tied to a Section 106 (legal) agreement and remains on the property for future sales. The buyer owns the whole of the property, there is no third party. This form of ownership is aimed at those people who can afford to buy but not at a full market value. Eligibility criteria applies to each property.
Discounted open market properties are usually advertised with local estate agents and on online estate agency sites such as Rightmove.
As discounted open market housing is tied to a Section 106 legal agreement The council will need to assess the eligibility of the buyer before a sale can be agreed. In order to do this the purchaser will need to complete application form. This application be obtained from the council directly contacting us.

Shared ownership

With shared ownership you can buy a share in your home and then pay an affordable, subsidised rent on the remaining share. You may need to raise a mortgage to purchase your share. If you have a large deposit or equity from the sale of a property, this can also be used towards purchasing your share. Shared ownership properties can be newly built or available to purchase at re-sale.

Shared Ownership properties available are either advertised through Help to buy property search or directly with the housing association.
Details of upcoming developments can be found on Homefinder Somerset -Homes Coming Soon.

Last reviewed: April 14, 2023 by Ian

Next review due: October 14, 2023

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