The Steps To Buying A Fractional Ownership Property
In this guide, we walk you through each step of the co-buying process — from financing to closing the deal.
1 - Get in Touch
Reach out to us — most clients start by email or phone. We’ll ask the right questions to understand your lifestyle, preferences, and what kind of co-ownership property suits you best.
2 - Understand the Process
Next, we’ll walk you through the co-ownership model, how buying shares works, and what to expect. We’ll provide you with full technical details and financial breakdowns for the properties you’re considering.
3 - Visit the Property
Then we'll arrange an in-person viewing with our local partners — or a virtual tour if that’s more convenient. If the home is already part of our co-ownership model, you might even get the chance to stay overnight.
4 - Become a Co-Owner
When you're ready, the buying process is simple. Sign in person at the notary, or complete the purchase via power of attorney. Once you complete the purchase, you officially own your share and can start enjoying your time there.
Frequently Asked Questions About Fractional Ownership
Not at all. In fact, Co-ownership — also known as fractional ownership — has a long-standing tradition, especially in countries like France and the UK. It’s common for families or friends to jointly purchase a second home using a company structure (such as an SCI in France), making ownership more efficient and cost-effective.
At co-ownership-property.com, we modernise this concept by bringing together like-minded buyers and streamlining the entire process. We identify top-quality homes, match compatible co-owners, and handle all aspects of purchase, management, and upkeep on your behalf.
Traditionally, second homes are used just 30–40 days per year. By sharing ownership, the property is better utilised, running costs and taxes are split, and the impact on the environment and local infrastructure is reduced. With fractional ownership, you enjoy meaningful time in a high-quality home — without the burden of full ownership.
Yes. You are a true fractional owner. The property is held within a company structure, and your share in that company reflects your ownership stake in the home. Your name is legally recorded, and you can benefit from any increase in property value, just like a traditional owner.
You can also sell your share, gift it to family, or leave it as part of your estate — it’s real ownership, not just a usage right.
With fractional co-ownership, you still enjoy the freedom and pride of second-home ownership — but with lower financial exposure. You split the purchase cost, running expenses, and property taxes with other co-owners. Meanwhile, a professional team takes care of everything from maintenance and cleaning to owner scheduling.
Each 1/8 share typically gives you 42–45 days of exclusive use per year, which is more than most full owners use. The homes are beautifully furnished, fully equipped, and ready to enjoy.
Every co-owned home is managed by a professional property manager who handles:
Ongoing maintenance
Cleaning and turnovers
Utility bills and service providers
Ownership scheduling and communication
A dedicated Home Manager is also available to assist with questions or requests. In some cases, owners may collectively choose to self-manage the property through a vote.
Where permitted (not all properties/operators do), unused weeks can sometimes be rented out through a professional rental service, generating income to offset running costs.
This depends on the home. For completed properties, you may be able to book your first stay immediately after signing and payment. For new developments or off-plan properties, you’ll be kept updated throughout construction, and usage begins once the home is delivered and all shares are sold.
Final transactions are completed in collaboration with licensed local estate agents and notaries to ensure full legal compliance.
No — fractional ownership is fundamentally different from a timeshare.
With a timeshare, you don’t own the property — just a limited right to use it for a specific week each year, often in a resort or hotel complex. There’s no equity, limited flexibility, and resale value is often low.
With co-ownership, you own a real share in a real home, with:
Equity tied to the property’s value
Flexible, year-round access
Personal storage space for your belongings
The ability to sell or pass down your share
In short, fractional ownership gives you all the benefits of owning a second home — with none of the waste or hassle.