Frequently
Asked Questions.
Shared OWnerShip
Shared ownership allows you to purchase a share of a home (typically between 25% and 75%) and pay rent on the remaining share. Over time, you can buy more shares through a process called “staircasing” until you own the property outright, if you choose to. This scheme makes getting onto the property ladder more affordable.
You may be eligible if your household income is £80,000 or less (£90,000 or less in London), you are a first-time buyer, or you previously owned a home but can no longer afford to buy one. Specific eligibility criteria can vary, so we’re here to guide you through the process.
Yes! You’re welcome to decorate and make minor changes to make your home your own. For major alterations, like structural changes, you’ll need our permission to ensure everything meets safety and regulatory standards.
Staircasing allows you to purchase additional shares in your home when it suits you. The more you own, the less rent you pay. You can gradually increase your ownership to 100% if you wish. We’ll support you through each step.
Besides your mortgage and rent, you’ll need to budget for service charges, maintenance costs, and any fees related to increasing your ownership share. We provide a full cost breakdown upfront so there are no surprises.
HouseBuilder Partnerships
We collaborate with housebuilders and developers across the UK to deliver high-quality shared ownership homes. Our flexible, responsive approach ensures developments meet both commercial goals and community needs. Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities.
We work with a wide range of developments, from small boutique projects to large-scale housing schemes. We’re committed to supporting sustainable, well-designed communities that provide lasting value for residents and developers alike.
Our expert team ensures that homes meet all regulatory standards, and we provide tailored marketing and sales support to help developments succeed. We handle the shared ownership process smoothly, allowing developers to focus on building.
We’re a regulated, for-profit provider with a strong commitment to quality, compliance, and positive customer experiences. Our proactive, partnership-first approach delivers results and adds value at every stage of development.
Regulatory Governance
Yes. Zen Housing is a regulated housing provider, ensuring we meet strict standards for financial management, governance, and customer service. We are fully committed to maintaining compliance and transparency in everything we do.
We follow robust governance frameworks, with oversight from an experienced leadership team and board. We prioritise ethical decision-making, regulatory compliance, and responsible growth to deliver long-term value for our residents and partners.
As a regulated provider, we adhere to industry best practices and legal requirements to protect our customers. This includes clear communication, fair contracts, and dedicated support throughout your homeownership journey.
While we are a for-profit organisation, we reinvest in quality housing and customer support. Our focus is on providing affordable, secure homes while delivering responsible, sustainable growth.
