West One has agreed a partnership with Shared Direction Conveyancing as it looks to strengthen its shared ownership mortgage proposition and improve case progression from application to completion.

The specialist lender said the arrangement would bring its shared ownership lending proposition closer to a conveyancing firm focused exclusively on that part of the market, in a move designed to create a more joined-up experience for borrowers and intermediaries.

Shared Direction Conveyancing works across shared ownership transactions, collaborating with brokers, housing associations and lenders.

West One said that expertise would support its ambitions in a sector that has become an increasingly prominent route onto the housing ladder.

Marie Grundy, director of mortgages at West One, said: “Shared ownership mortgages have grown in popularity as affordable housing in the UK has become notoriously difficult to get a hold of.

“Recognising this need, shared ownership mortgages have become a central part of our lending proposition.

“By partnering with Shared Direction Conveyancing, we are streamlining the process for new applicants with the help of one of the UK’s foremost shared ownership legal experts.”

The lender said the partnership would aim to create a more transparent and efficient legal process for shared ownership cases, aligning underwriting and conveyancing more closely to reduce friction during the transaction.

Shared Direction Conveyancing, which specialises in shared ownership transactions, works closely with brokers and registered providers to manage the additional legal requirements often associated with these cases, including leases and staircasing provisions.

Bevin Woby, business development director at Shared Direction Conveyancing, added: “We are delighted to partner with West One and support their commitment to delivering high quality Shared Ownership lending solutions.

“This partnership will allow us to guide their clients in wrapping up shared ownership cases with ease and confidence.”