Mortgages in Trust

Answered on 19 September 2024 by


My daughter and her partner, due to wed next year, are potential first time buyers. We have set up a Trust Fund and propose gifting our former first home into it having just built a new house for ourselves. We are now both retired aged 64 and 61. Is it possible that they (the young couple) could get a mortgage to become part owners of the bungalow with the trust fund. The mortgagors having the first and only charge on the property. The proposal is for gradually in time for the trust fund to pass more of the ownership to the couple.


Nicholas Mendes

While it's possible for your daughter and her partner to obtain a mortgage to become part owners of the bungalow held within the Trust Fund, of which there are a handful of lenders who will consider. They are unlikely to agree on a shared equity situation where a property is held in the joint names of a trust and private individuals. 

Here's how the process might work: 

  1. Ownership structure - initially, the Trust Fund would own the bungalow, and your daughter and her partner would be beneficiaries of the trust. The trust would hold legal title to the property, but your daughter and her partner would have beneficial ownership rights  
  2. Mortgage application - your daughter and her partner would apply for a joint mortgage to finance their share of the property's purchase price. The mortgage lender would assess their affordability, creditworthiness, and eligibility based on their income, credit history, and other factors  
  3. Legal agreement - your daughter and her partner, as beneficiaries of the trust, would enter into a legal agreement outlining their respective shares of ownership in the property and their responsibilities for mortgage repayments and ongoing expenses  
  4. Mortgage terms - the mortgage lender would hold the first charge on the property, meaning that they have priority over any other creditors in the event of default. The terms of the mortgage, including the loan amount, interest rate, and repayment schedule, would be determined by the lender based on their lending criteria  
  5. Gradual transfer of ownership - over time, as agreed upon by the parties involved, the trust could transfer more of the ownership of the property to your daughter and her partner. This could be done through legal mechanisms such as a deed of trust or transfer of beneficial interest  
  6. Legal and financial advice - it's essential for all parties involved to seek independent legal and financial advice to ensure that the arrangement is structured correctly and that everyone's interests are protected. This includes advice on the legal implications of joint ownership, mortgage obligations, and tax considerations  

Title Deeds 

The mortgage would have to be in the same names as the title deeds and this will depend on how ownership is registered. The trust would also have to be set up so that it is able to borrow money by way of a mortgage. You will need to speak to a specialist trust lawyer to determine how best to do this. 

By setting up a Trust Fund and gifting the property to it, you provide your daughter and her partner with the opportunity to become homeowners with the assistance of a mortgage. However, it's crucial to carefully consider the legal and financial implications of this arrangement and ensure that it aligns with everyone's long-term goals and interests. Consulting with professionals experienced in trust law, property law, and mortgage financing can help you navigate the process and make informed decisions. 

Please call 0330 433 2927 once armed with this information and we will be able to take your details and start contacting lenders to see who, if anyone, would be willing to lend. 

Ask The Mortgage Experts answers are based on the information provided and do not constitute advice under the Financial Services & Markets Act. They reflect the personal views of the authors and do not necessarily represent the views, positions, strategies or opinions of John Charcol. All comments are made in good faith, and John Charcol will not accept liability for them. We recommend you seek professional advice with regard to any of these topics where appropriate.

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