Buying Out a Partner in a Mortgage

Podcast approved by The Openwork Partnership on 02/03/2026.

What happens if you split up with someone you have a mortgage with?

This is something we see from time to time. It’s never nice, but as mortgage brokers, we’re here to help. If you’re splitting up with someone and you’ve got a mortgage with them, you are both jointly responsible for that mortgage until a new arrangement is put into place. Most lenders will allow you to transfer that mortgage into one person’s name, as long as you can demonstrate you’re able to afford it. If that isn’t possible, there are alternative options such as remortgaging to another lender. As well as taking on the mortgage, you may want to look at releasing equity in the property to buy out the other person. We can advise you on all of that and help with the calculations. It’s all obviously subject to whatever you agree – everyone has to be happy. It’s very wise to get legal advice at this stage, as well.

How do I get a mortgage to buy out a partner? Can I remortgage to buy my partner out?

The first thing anyone in this position should do is contact their existing lender. Find out where you stand with them and what the options are. Then you can come to a broker such as ourselves and we can do the legwork for you. We can liaise with your lender and arrange things, but first we need to know where you stand.

How long does it take to buy a partner out of the house?

It generally takes between four and 12 weeks, assuming it’s all amicable and straightforward. However, it can stretch to several months or even years if there are disputes or issues. The process involves a transfer of equity, where one party is removed from the home ownership. This typically requires a new mortgage or remortgage, and the timing will depend on mortgage approval, legal documentation and agreement on the property valuation.

Can I use equity release to buy out my partner?

It all depends on what we actually mean by the phrase ‘equity release’. If we’re simply meaning borrowing extra to release cash, yes, you could do this. You could borrow more against the property, as long as the lender is willing to lend the additional sum to you. Again, it’s all subject to affordability and credit score. You can use this to pay any agreed separation agreement. But equity release could also refer specifically to homeowners aged over 55, who could potentially unlock tax-free cash from their property’s value without moving. It’s usually done through a lifetime mortgage or home reversion plan. Again, this could be used to pay for any agreed separation agreement. If you are interested in the second option here, note that equity release products should not be entered into lightly – legal advice should definitely be sought beforehand.

Do I need a solicitor to buy out my partner?

Yes, you will definitely need a solicitor. The first thing the solicitor will need to do is bring the title for the property from joint names into the sole name of whoever is keeping it. There’s also some legal work involved in the remortgage when you’re changing lenders.

Can you remove a partner from a joint mortgage? How do I change my joint mortgage to a single person?

In principle, yes. Pretty much all lenders will allow you to do it. We just need to find out where you stand with the existing lender. The main hurdle with transferring it to a single name is that person’s affordability. The mortgage lender is going to ask for documents to prove your income, such as payslips if you’re employed or tax returns if you’re self-employed. It’s a similar journey to applying for a mortgage for the first time. You have to prove that you can afford it in the usual way.

What do I do if I can’t afford to buy out my partner? How much does it cost to take someone off a mortgage in the UK?

I’ve presumed here that you’ve already explored options such as remortgaging. If you’re separating, be aware that it’s not imperative for the mortgage to be placed in sole names. It’s a joint agreement and both people remain liable for the loan. However, should the courts judge that payment should be made in lieu of the property, or you just want it fully separated, you may need to sell the property. That’s often the result if no other method of payment can be arranged. Again, legal advice should be sought, which has a fee. If you, your ex-partner and lender agree that the mortgage could continue in your sole names, the lender will advise you of the costs involved. There may be an administration fee.