Shared Ownership lets you buy a share of a home and pay rent on the rest. You’ll need to meet basic income and affordability checks. This guide explains the local‑connection rules—when they apply, what they mean, and the evidence you might need.
When is a local connection usually needed?
- Rural or parish‑based schemes – These often give first priority to people who already live or work in the village or nearby. The aim is to help local households stay in their community.
- Homes with planning conditions (Section 106) – Some sites have a planning agreement that sets out who gets priority and what “local connection” means. The exact rules are different for each development and council.
What can count as a local connection?
This varies by area and by scheme, but it commonly includes one or more of the following:
- Living in the area – You’ve lived in the parish or district for a set time (for example, a continuous period or “within the last X years”). The time period is set locally.
- Working in the area – You have a job or are self‑employed locally. Some schemes set minimum hours or a minimum length of employment.
- Close family in the area – A parent, adult child or sibling has lived locally for several years.
- Other local ties – For example, you were brought up by a relative in the area or you provide regular care to someone who lives there.
Important: There isn’t one national definition for local connection in Shared Ownership. The time periods and the proof you need are set locally for each development.
Shared Ownership eligibility rules still apply
Even if there’s a local‑connection rule, you’ll also need to meet the standard Shared Ownership checks:
- Income cap (higher inside London)
- Buyer status (for example, a first‑time buyer or someone who can’t buy on the open market)
- Affordability (you can cover the deposit and ongoing payments)
These apply to every Shared Ownership purchase.
Rural “Designated Protected Areas” (DPAs)
Some rural areas have extra safeguards to keep homes affordable for local people. If a home is in a DPA, the lease may:
- limit how much you can staircase (buy more shares), or
- require the landlord to buy the home back if you staircase to 100%.
If a DPA applies, we’ll note it on the listing and in the lease summary.
How priority usually works
Where a local‑connection rule exists, priority normally starts with people who have the strongest ties to the parish (for example, currently living there). If homes are still available, priority then widens to neighbouring parishes and then to the wider district. The exact order (the “cascade”) is set out in the planning agreement for that scheme.
What proof might you need?
Depending on the development and local policy, you may be asked for:
- Residence: council‑tax bills, utility bills, tenancy agreements, electoral‑roll entries
- Work: recent payslips, an employer letter, or proof of local self‑employment
- Family: evidence that your close relative has lived locally for several years (for example, council‑tax statements)
FAQs
Do all Shared Ownership homes require a local connection?
No. Many urban schemes don’t. Rural schemes are more likely to.
Is there one national definition of “local connection”?
No. It’s set locally for each scheme.
I’m serving in the Armed Forces—do I still need a local connection?
Serving personnel often get extra support or priority. Check the notes on the property you’re interested in.
What to do next
- Check listings for any local‑connection rule.
- Gather evidence (residence, work or family) if it applies.
- Ask us if you’re unsure—tell us which home you’re looking at and we’ll explain the exact criteria.
Guinness Homes is proud to provide award-winning Shared Ownership and private sale homes in areas you want to live.
