Despite the recent growth in mortgage possession there has been little research on the characteristics of those losing their property or the form and meaning of the possession process. This paper examines: the conceptualisation and measurement of possession; who is at risk and of what type of possession; the factors associated with different routes out of owner occupation and the impact of possession on borrowers both financially and in terms of attitudes to home ownership. The paper suggests that there may be a significant incidence of voluntary possession and young home owners with high loan: value ratios, high monthly payments and additional borrowing are especially vulnerable.