The Open Market Shared Equity Scheme (OMSE) is available for first-time buyers and priority access groups who can’t afford the full price of a home, including social renters, disabled people, people aged 60 and over, members of the armed forces and veterans.

Designed to help eligible buyers on low-to-moderate incomes purchase a home on the open market, the scheme will see the Scottish Government contributing up to a 40% equity share for those looking to purchase a home. In some special circumstances, the contribution can go up to a max of 49%, always leaving the owner with the largest share.

The scheme, along with the First Homes Fund, provides financial assistance to prospective homeowners and is part of the government’s programme of action to provide affordable housing across the country.

Cabinet secretary for social justice and housing Shirley-Anne Somerville said: “This government is delivering on affordable housing and this scheme, along with our First Homes Fund, will provide a vital support for those looking to buy their first home.

“We know how hard it is to get that first foot on the property ladder - our shared equity schemes assist households who can sustain mortgage repayments but find it difficult to accumulate the necessary savings to secure a purchase. 

“I encourage everyone who is eligible and looking to buy a home to apply to these schemes. Giving more people the chance to buy an affordable home also plays a crucial role in reducing homelessness and eradicating child poverty across the country.”

The LIFT OMSE Scheme is administered on behalf of the Scottish Government by Link Shared Equity, part of Link Group.

Colin Culross, Link Group executive director, commercial, and CEO of C~urb, said: “We’re delighted to see the OMSE Scheme reopen for 2026/27 and to be working with the Scottish Government to make home ownership a reality for more people throughout Scotland.

“For many people, especially in today’s economic climate, meeting the cost of buying a home and getting on the property ladder can feel completely out of reach.

“Having already helped tens of thousands of families to afford their own home, shared equity initiatives, like the OMSE Scheme, reduce the upfront cost of home ownership and can make that dream a reality. Link Shared Equity’s expert teams can help people every step of the way, including our after-sales service.”