May 2025 Property Guides: Shared Ownership, Mortgages & Buying Tips

If you’ve been browsing Holly Lets Property Hub this month, you’ve probably seen a mix of practical how‑tos aimed at anyone eyeing a new home. From splitting ownership with a partner to figuring out how much a bank will lend you on a £70k salary, the posts are packed with real‑world advice you can use right now.

Understanding Shared Ownership and Co‑Buying

Two of May’s articles break down the buzz around shared ownership. The first explains what the term really means – you buy a share of a property (usually 25‑75 %) and rent the rest. It also points out who can apply, how staircasing works, and what everyday life looks like when you own part of a house with someone else.

The second piece digs deeper into the “share ownership pattern.” It shows how you can gradually increase your stake, what costs to expect at each step, and which pitfalls to avoid if you’re already living in a shared‑ownership home. Both articles stress that the system can be a stepping stone onto the ladder, but you need to keep an eye on resale values and lease terms.

Mortgage Money: Salary, Credit Scores and What Lenders Want

For anyone wondering how much they could borrow, May delivered three detailed guides. One shows the maths behind a mortgage you could get on a $70,000 salary, covering debt‑to‑income ratios, credit score impacts and ways to boost your borrowing power.

Another article tackles the $250,000 mortgage question. It breaks down the income, savings and credit score you’ll need, plus practical steps to strengthen your application before you even talk to a bank.

Finally, we looked at the credit score needed to buy a £600k house as a first‑time buyer. The piece lists the score ranges lenders use, explains why a higher score can shave years off your repayment term, and offers quick tips to improve your rating.

All three guides share a common theme: know your numbers, keep your credit clean, and be ready with the right documents. That preparation can turn a vague “maybe” into a solid “yes” from a lender.

Finding the Right Estate Agent and Securing Small Loans

Choosing an estate agent doesn’t have to feel like a lottery. The May post on “estate agents near me” gives a short checklist: verify credentials, ask about recent sales in your area, and watch out for hidden fees. It also suggests a few questions to ask during the first meeting, so you can spot red flags early.

If you need a smaller loan, such as £100k for a first home, another guide walks you through the bank’s checklist, from proof of income to the credit score they’ll scrutinise. It warns about hidden costs like arrangement fees and offers tips to negotiate better terms.

Overall, May’s content is built for people who want clear, actionable steps—not jargon. Whether you’re eyeing a shared‑ownership flat, calculating how much you can borrow on a modest salary, or hunting for a trustworthy agent, these articles give you the tools to move forward with confidence.

Ready to put the advice into action? Grab the article that matches your current challenge, jot down the key takeaways, and start ticking off those to‑do items. The UK property market can feel overwhelming, but with the right knowledge you’ll find the path that works for you.

Shared Ownership: What Do You Call It When You Own a Home Together?
31 May

Ever wondered what it's called when you own a piece of a home instead of buying the whole thing on your own? This article tells you all about shared ownership, how it works, who can use it, and what life's actually like when you share your place with others. Get real tips, straight talk, and answers to questions people actually have about owning a home together. If the idea of getting your foot on the housing ladder seems out of reach, this might be the practical solution you need. We'll break it down without the jargon.

Share Ownership Pattern in Shared Ownership Homes: What You Need to Know
29 May

Wondering how share ownership actually works in shared ownership homes? This article breaks down the pattern of share ownership, explains how you can increase your share over time, and gives tips for making the most out of this housing option. You'll get clear details on finances, key facts, plus practical advice for both newbies and those already living in shared ownership houses. It's all about making the system work for you. By the end, you'll know exactly what to expect and how to plan your next move.

How Much Mortgage Can I Get with a $70,000 Salary?
23 May

Wondering what kind of home loan you can get with a $70,000 salary? This guide explains how banks figure out your borrowing limit, the impact of credit scores, typical monthly payments, and smart ways to get more from your mortgage. Knowing how lenders think gives you a clear shot at your first home purchase—without getting hung up on the details. Check real numbers and practical tips every first-time buyer should know.

First Time Home Buyer Qualifications in Ohio: What You Need to Know
21 May

Wondering if you count as a first time home buyer in Ohio? This article breaks down the exact requirements, quirky exceptions, and why it matters for your mortgage and possible perks. You’ll get the details on special programs, the paperwork you’ll need, and some easy-to-miss eligibility tips. Plus, find out how life changes—like divorce, relocation, or time away from homeownership—come into play. Set yourself up for less stress and more savings with this down-to-earth guide.

How Much Money Do You Need to Qualify for a $250,000 Mortgage?
17 May

Thinking about buying your first home with a $250,000 mortgage? It's not just about finding the right house—your income, debt, and credit score all play a role. This article breaks down how much money you need to bring in, how lenders look at your finances, and ways to make yourself a stronger applicant. Packed with realistic tips and numbers, you'll walk away knowing exactly what to aim for. Get a clear path to unlocking your homeownership dreams.

Home Ownership: 3 Big Downsides You Should Know
14 May

On the surface, owning a home through shared ownership seems like a smart money move. But it’s not all sunshine and housewarming parties. This article covers three often overlooked downsides of home ownership, with a close look at how shared ownership homes can surprise buyers. Get real-life tips for handling these challenges, plus the facts nobody tells you about shared home ownership.

Estate Agents Near Me: How Do I Choose a Good One?
9 May

Wondering how to find a good estate agent? This article breaks down practical steps for choosing someone trustworthy and effective in your local area. Expect smart tips for spotting red flags, understanding agency fees, and getting the most from your agent. Learn what questions to ask before signing anything. Avoid common mistakes and feel confident about your next move in the property market.

How to Borrow 100k from a Bank for Your First Home
7 May

Thinking about getting your first home and need a $100k loan? This guide breaks down the whole process, from what banks want to see to steps you can't skip. You'll learn what documents to prep, how your credit score comes into play, and what could trip you up. There are tips to make sure you don't get caught off guard by hidden costs. Perfect if you're feeling unsure and want straight answers without any confusing jargon.

Credit Score Needed to Buy a $600k House: What First-Time Buyers Should Know
2 May

Thinking about buying a $600,000 house as a first-time buyer? Your credit score plays a huge role in what kind of mortgage you can get and how much you'll pay every month. This article breaks down what score you really need, how lenders look at your application, and smart ways to boost your chances if your score isn’t quite there yet. Get real tips without the fluff or jargon. We’ll make sense of the numbers so you can shop smarter.