16/10/2025 - Abolishing stamp duty may not help first-time buyers

Should I Use Co-Ownership to Buy My First Home?
It’s one of the most common questions I get from first-time buyers here in Northern Ireland:
“Should I use Co-Ownership?”
The truth is pretty straightforward.
If you don’t need Co-Ownership, you’re usually better going without it.
But it can be a fantastic option when it’s needed — especially for two reasons.
At the minute, every lender in Northern Ireland wants at least a 5% deposit.
Co-Ownership is the only way to buy a home with zero deposit, which is a massive help for people who are renting or struggling to save.
Sometimes your mortgage and deposit only stretch to something like £150,000.
With Co-Ownership, you may be able to look at properties well above that, opening up options that would normally be out of reach.
My general rule is simple:
If you can afford the home you want without Co-Ownership, go without it.
But if the numbers don’t quite work — or you need that extra boost — Co-Ownership is a solid, well-run scheme that helps tons of first-time buyers every year.
If you’ve any questions on Co-Ownership or buying your first home, just get in touch — happy to help.
Paddy @ First Time Buyer Mortgages