How to get into the property market with friends

Ben and Josh had both struggled to get into the property market on their own. Rising prices and single incomes made the dream feel out of reach.
Instead of giving up, they decided to buy together and discovered that CommBank Property Share loans gave them the structure and security they needed.
By setting clear ground rules and getting expert guidance, they found a pathway to ownership that worked for them.

One dream, two best friends

Childhood mates from Victoria, Ben and Josh, grew up on the same street, played on the same footy team and even shared dodgy haircuts. And when it came to home ownership, both hit the same wall: affordability. “We’d each been trying to crack into the property market for a while with no luck,” Josh explains. “So we figured, we do everything else together, why not home ownership?”

The challenge: make it work financially

Rising housing costs mean some Australians are considering new strategies. For Ben and Josh, that strategy was a CommBank Property Share loan, where separate home loans are tied to the same property. The arrangement gave them clarity and reduced risk, with each responsible for their own share. “It just gives a bit more peace of mind,” says Josh. “If a hypothetical situation arises, we’ve got the legal documents to go back to.”

What was easy, what was hard

For the mates, trust came naturally after a lifetime of friendship. But navigating the paperwork was the tougher part. Property Share required independent legal advice for both, which meant time and effort upfront. Still, the process gave them confidence that they were protected for the long haul. “Chatting to the right people is vital,” Ben reflects.

The results and the lessons

After months of searching, the pair finally got the call they’d been waiting for: approval. “We got the keys. We got the house,” says Josh proudly. Renovations are already underway and they’re still laughing together through the dust and hard work. Their biggest takeaway? Buying with a friend isn’t for everyone but with trust, honesty and a solid plan, it can be the key to getting into the housing market sooner. As Josh puts it: “If you’ve got a strong friendship and the right people around you, you’ll laugh at it.”

For more of Josh and Ben’s story, stream The Brighter Side on 10.

Published: 10 October 2025

Things you should know

This article provides general information of an educational nature only. It does not have regard to the financial situation or needs of any reader and must not be relied upon as personal financial product advice. The views expressed by contributors are their own and don’t necessarily reflect the views of CBA. As the information has been provided without considering your objectives, financial situation or needs, you should, before acting on this information, consider what is appropriate for your circumstances, and where appropriate, consider the relevant Target Market Determination, Product Disclosure Statement and Terms and Conditions available on our website. You should also consider whether seeking independent professional legal, tax and financial advice is necessary. Every effort has been taken to ensure the information was correct as at the time of publishing but it may be subject to change. No part of the editorial contents may be reproduced or copied in any form without the prior permission and acknowledgement of CBA.