For couples looking to take ‘the next step’ this Valentine’s Day, buying a first home together can feel daunting for more reasons than one…

The increasing cost of properties on the open market is making it extremely difficult for besotted buyers to afford a love nest of their own – with first time buyers in London currently requiring an average deposit of £115,759*.

Helping couples take their first step on the property ladder this February, Shared Ownership allows purchasers to part buy and part rent a home, often requiring lower deposits and monthly repayments. A more affordable route onto the property ladder, the average deposit for a one bedroom apartment in London on leading property portal sharetobuy.com is just £8,652* – significantly more accessible than purchasing outright.

With more one and two bedroom Shared Ownership homes emerging in new areas across the capital and beyond, there are an increasing number of options available for those wanting to move their relationship forward. This Valentine’s Day, Share to Buy are showcasing five Shared Ownership homes in London that are the perfect for couples, currently listed on sharetobuy.com.

The Acer Apartments, White City Living
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For those ready to begin life as a cohabitating couple in the capital, The Acer Apartments at White City Living in West London could be the perfect home for pairs. These studio, one and two bedroom apartments are set within eight acres of parks and gardens. The modern homes are surrounded by world-class retail, entertainment and culture, giving residents the very best of everything London has to offer – always plenty of activities for date night! As an added bonus, living at this new development means access to the dedicated Residents’ App, which provides information about events going on in the community. At Legal & General Affordable Homes’ Acer Apartments, prices start from £126,250 for a 25% share of a studio apartment (full market value: £505,000) and £173,750 for a 25% share of a one bedroom home (full market value: £695,000).

Dockley Apartments, Bermondsey
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Dockley Apartments offers a perfect opportunity to get onto the property ladder in this sought-after area of Southwark. These one and two bedroom homes offer private outdoor space, underfloor heating, open-plan kitchen/dining areas and fully integrated appliances. Located in vibrant Bermondsey, these apartments are right at the heart of the action, with much of central London within walking distance and Bermondsey tube station just a five minute walk away. Exciting areas like Maltby Street Market and Bermondsey Beer Mile make the neighbourhood a thriving hub for food and drink, a great location for couples who still want to live in the buzzing capital. At Southern Housing’s Dockley Apartments, prices begin at £153,000 for 30% share of a one bedroom apartment (full market value: £510,000).

L&Q at The Silk District, Whitechapel
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These one and two bedroom apartments provide the exciting opportunity for young couples to purchase their own home in London. This trendy destination has excellent transport links across the capital, with the Elizabeth line newly opened. Properties are perfectly equipped for modern living, with apartments featuring floor to ceiling windows, as well as open plan living spaces. Outside, each home offers access to a private balcony or terrace as well as landscaped communal gardens. Offering on-site amenities, buyers can access a range of facilities, including a state-of-the-art gym kitted out with Technogym exercise equipment, peloton spin studio and a cinema room – ideal for a romantic night in. Prices at L&Q at The Silk District currently start from £123,125 for a 25% share of a one bedroom apartment (full market value: £492,500).

Harrow & Wealdstone Heights, Harrow
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Harrow & Wealdstone Heights is a stunning development located in the heart of a popular North London neighbourhood, which offers a collection of modern one and two bedroom apartments. Each apartment is finished to an exceptional standard, with a fully integrated kitchen, a private balcony and a communal roof terrace, offering a unique vantage point to enjoy views of the London skyline – perfect for romantic stargazing. The apartments are located just a few minutes’ walk from Harrow & Wealdstone Station, with journeys to Euston taking just 12 minutes, making it the ideal location for commuter couples. At Origin Housing’s Harrow & Wealdstone Heights, prices start from £80,625 for a 25% share of a one bedroom home (full market value: £322,500).

Southmere, Bexley
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Part of the award-winning regeneration of Thamesmead, Southmere has a collection of two bedroom apartments available – the prime choice for couples planning to expand their family in the near future. These modern homes are located within a vibrant lakeside setting, with direct access to an exclusive podium garden, concierge service, residents lounge, and co-working space. Abbey Wood Station is within walking distance and offers excellent links to the heart of the city – the Elizabeth line is an 11 minute journey to Canary Wharf and a 20 minute ride to Liverpool Street and Stratford. At Peabody’s Southmere, prices start from £118,500 for a 30% share of a two bedroom home (full market value: £395,000). Three bedroom apartments are also available.