A PARTNER at a Winchester law firm has released her first book: A Practical Guide to Shared Ownership.

The book was written by Sarah Sams, of Dutton Gregory, who is a specialist in shared ownership with more than 20 years of experience in residential conveyancing. Pre-orders for the book have already been taken by the publishing house Law Brief Publishing and via Amazon.

The Practical Guide discusses everything a property professional needs to know about shared ownership. Topics include the difference between shared ownership and shared equity, past and present types of shared ownership leases, stamp duty land tax considerations, and model shared ownership leases.

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Sarah said: “I saw a need in the market for more publicity and awareness for shared ownership schemes, as there appears to be a huge lack of understanding, particularly the benefits it offers first-time buyers. The need to provide affordable housing is increasing and the market for shared ownership properties is also growing, so it feels timely to debunk some myths and explain the process in full.

“Shared ownership makes getting on the housing ladder much more accessible, with lower deposits needing to be paid. It can also help older people to access appropriate accommodation, with certain shared ownership homes being solely aimed at those over 55. What it absolutely isn’t is being allocated shared accommodation with someone you don’t know.

“This new book is aimed at conveyancers acting in respect of purchases, re-mortgages, and the sale of shared ownership properties, together with those dealing with any staircasing transactions. It contains guidance about what needs to be addressed in the lease, together with a range of other considerations that should be kept in mind when dealing with shared ownership property transactions.”

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The Practical Guide to Shared Ownership has been launched at the same time as Paul Sam’s new book.

The head of property at Dutton Gregory, Paul is Sarah’s husband and co-wrote his new book New Build Conveyancing: The Essential Guide with colleague Rebecca East. The book is Paul’s sixth published work.

Both books are available to purchase via Amazon Market Place or direct from Law Brief Publishing.