Communities Minister Gordon Lyons has announced an increase to the Co-Ownership property value limit (PVL) to bolster support for individuals and families seeking to purchase their own homes.

Under the new measures, the PVL will rise from £210,000 to £215,000, with the change set to take effect from 14 April 2026. This adjustment is intended to provide Co-Ownership customers with access to a broader selection of properties throughout Northern Ireland.

Minister Lyons stated: "I am committed to providing support where it is needed and helping as many people and families as possible get onto the property ladder. Co-Ownership is a key part of this commitment and an increase in the property value limit will help ensure more people can access homes to suit their needs."

In addition to the immediate threshold increase, the Minister confirmed that the Department for Communities will conduct a formal review into the methodology used to calculate the property value limit. This review aims to ensure that Co-Ownership, which serves as the Department's sole delivery partner for intermediate housing, remains an effective tool for those entering the market. "It is important that the property value limit reflects the realities of a fast-moving housing market and that is why I have asked my officials to review the current approach to calculating the property value limit," Minister Lyons added. "This is about taking stock, looking to the future, enhancing what has gone before, and ensuring that Co-Ownership continue to support as many people as possible into home ownership."

The announcement follows a previous commitment made in March 2025, where the Minister allocated £153 million in Financial Transactions Capital (FTC) funding to Co-Ownership. This investment is tasked with delivering 4,000 affordable shared-ownership homes by 2029.

Mark Graham, Chief Executive of Co-Ownership, welcomed the move, saying: "Co-Ownership welcomes the Minister's continued commitment to shared ownership as a core element of the Housing Supply Strategy. Today's announcement represents an encouraging step forward, helping more people across Northern Ireland access an affordable home through Co-Ownership."

Mr Graham expressed his support for the upcoming calculation review, noting: "Ensuring the limit accurately reflects real market conditions is essential to support our customers to find high-quality, affordable homes that meet their needs. Since 1978, Co-Ownership has proudly supported more than 34,000 people on their journey into homeownership. Today's announcement further strengthens that mission."

To find out more about Co-Ownership, visit: www.co-ownership.org