Picture this; you have had your offer accepted and the conveyancing is progressing smoothly, but before exchange of contracts, your solicitor tells you that the property you are buying is subject to a restrictive covenant. ‘That scenario is more common than you might think,’ admits Chloe Smart, a Director and the Head of Residential Property…
The way goods and materials are bought and sold in the UK has changed beyond recognition over the last 25 years, with the supply chain and end customers expecting speedy delivery. This has created new demand for logistics and distribution sites, ranging from vast state-of-the art warehouses alongside ‘last mile’ dispatches from a network of…
On current estimates, the United Kingdom needs over four million new homes to meet its housing needs. So, if you own a small plot of land which you no longer need or wish to maintain, now could be a good time to sell, especially if your plot has development potential. ‘The prospect of selling to…
Easements are valuable rights that allow you to use neighbouring land in particular ways, for the benefit of your own property. Without easements, like a right of way or the right to light, you might not be able to make full use of your property, so they really matter especially when you are operating a…
If you get planning permission for the development of a site, it now comes with an obligation to ensure that there is a net gain in biodiversity. The statutory obligation is to demonstrate a minimum 10 per cent increase in biodiversity after the development has been completed, compared with the site before the development began….
Climate change is likely to affect most if not all our homes, and homebuyers are much more conscious of environmental issues nowadays, which is something to be aware of if you are selling. ‘If your home is already affected, other properties in your neighbourhood probably will be too. Often, you can improve your chances of…
If your business requirements have changed, and you need to get out of your current lease, a surrender can be an attractive option – as long as your landlord is willing to agree. Alternatively, your landlord may want the property back for redevelopment and approach you to discuss surrendering your lease. ‘There are different ways…
Many of us dream about having our own pool, especially as summer approaches. What better way to beat a heatwave? And, on a more practical note, swimming is great exercise, suitable for all ages and fitness levels. So, if you are searching for your next home, a house with a pool may be high on…
The Levelling Up and Regeneration Act 2023 will give local authorities new powers to hold rental auctions of empty high street properties if landlords do not find tenants for themselves. The relevant parts of the legislation are not yet in force, but if you are a landlord of urban retail, office or hospitality premises which…
If you are selling a leasehold property, as part of the standard conveyancing process, your buyers will expect you to provide certain information about your property. There are set forms for this, including one which relates specifically to leases that asks if you are aware of any problems regarding the service charge or any complaints…