With today's high housing prices and ever-changing mortgage rates, many people are finding a creative solution to make homeownership a reality: teaming up with friends or family. Co-ownership can be a smart financial move, letting you combine resources for a larger down payment, a better loan, or a more desirable property. But sharing a mortgage—and a roof—requires more than just a verbal agreement.
Here's how to make co-ownership work for you.
Before you even start looking at listings, have an open and honest conversation with your co-buyers. Discuss your goals, expectations, and any deal-breakers. Ask each other:
Why are you interested in buying?
Is this a long-term home, a s...