Should I buy a property with my partner when we aren't married?

Buying a home is one of the biggest financial decisions you'll ever make — and doing it with your boyfriend or girlfriend can feel exciting, empowering… and just a little bit scary.

So, should you really take the plunge if you're not married or in a civil partnership?

Let’s break down the pros, cons, and the key things you need to know before buying a property together as an unmarried couple in the UK.

Buying a property with my partner — Buying a property with you partner

The Pros of Buying a Home With Your Partner

It can be a Smart Financial Move (If You’re Both Ready)

Pooling your savings and income can help you afford a better property, or get on the ladder sooner than going solo.

Build Equity, Not Just Memories

Buying together means your money’s going towards something that can increase in value over time.

The Cons of buying a home with your partner

You're Not Protected Like Married Couples

Unlike married partners or civil partners, you don’t automatically have a legal claim to the property if things go south. That can get messy — especially if only one person’s name is on the mortgage or deeds.

Breakups Are Complicated

Sorry to be the buzzkill, but it's a fact: if you break up, what happens to the property? Who gets what? How is equity split? Without legal agreements, things can turn emotionally and financially painful.

Mortgage May Depend on One of You

If one partner has a stronger financial profile, the mortgage might be based on their income or credit — which could create an imbalance in ownership and responsibility

So What Should You Do? Here’s the Smart Way:

Firstly you need to take the emotion out of it and think of this as a pure transaction, it just makes things simpler.

Decide on Ownership Structure

There are two main ways to co-own property in the UK:

Joint Tenants: You both own the whole property equally. If one of you dies, the other automatically inherits the whole property — but if you split up, it's always a 50/50 split, no matter who paid what.
Tenants in Common: You each own a specific share (50/50, 60/40, etc.). You can define this in writing — perfect if one of you is putting in more money.

Get a Deed of Trust (Seriously)

This legal document outlines who owns what, who paid what, and how things would be handled if you break up or sell. It’s essential for protection and clarity. This is also different to a mortgage and a Declaration of Trust.

If you have already bought with your partner, then don't worry, you can still get one drawn up, so make sure to speak to a solicitor.

You have to have the uncomfortable conversation

It might feel awkward, but being clear now saves heartache later. Discuss:

What happens if one of you wants to sell?
Who pays for what (mortgage, bills, maintenance)? Will you split 50/50 or split depending on income
How will profits be split if the home is sold?
Even if only one of you are paying the utility bills, make sure that you're both named on the account

Buying a property with your boyfriend or girlfriend can be an amazing step — but it’s not one to take lightly. You don’t need a wedding ring to make it work, but you do need clear communication, legal advice, and a proper plan.

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