Joint Purchase

Unless you are single and planning to remain so, it is always advisable to buy the property in joint names with your partner. The bank, building society or mortgage lender, will require joint signatories to the mortgage application, even if this is based on only one income. You both sign the application, both sign the purchase contracts, and both own the house equally – it is generally easier this way, but again if in doubt ask your solicitor. Legally you will usually become Joint Tenants which means the survivor automatically inherits the property. Alternatively, you may prefer to own your own share which is a more business-like approach when you will be Tenants in Common.