If you want to buy a home that's for sale on the open market but can't afford the total cost, you might be able to get help through the LIFT Open Market Shared Equity (OMSE) scheme.
The OMSE scheme is available across Scotland and is open to all first-time buyers and can give you a lift onto the housing ladder. The Scottish Government scheme provides eligible applicants with up to 40% of the purchase price of a property that has been advertised on the open market. To apply for the funding, you must be a first-time buyer, social renter, armed forces personnel or disabled with a housing need.
For more information or to apply, please visit the LINK Housing website.
Who is the scheme for?
The scheme is available to help all first time buyers. If you have previously owned a home you will not be able to receive assistance (unless you are one of the priority access groups).
Although anyone can apply for OMSE, priority access will be given to:
- people aged over 60
- social renters (people who rent from the council or a housing association)
- disabled people
- members of the armed forces
- veterans who have left the armed forces within the past two years
- widows, widowers and other partners of service personnel for up to two years after their partner has lost their life while serving
How do I find out more?
You will find more information about the Open Market Shared Equity Scheme and general information on the house buying process on the mygov.scot website or on the Scottish Government website.