On the whole, yes. You’re not allocated a property or put in a random lottery. However, your circumstances do come into consideration, and shared ownership is only available on specific homes. For instance; if you’re a couple, you’re less likely to get a five-bedroom house opposite a school than the family of seven who applied. But it works both ways – you might get priority on a great apartment near your work. Eligibility requirements apply. It’s best to find a property you like and check with the housing association who is selling the property, to make sure it’s right for you. Here are a few things your housing association might factor in: Where you work. Whether you’re a first-time buyer. If you’ve got children. Whether you’re an existing local authority or housing association tenant.