Property Investment

Our expertise covers all types of commercial property investment, including the acquisition of offices, retail units, industrial premises, warehouses and mixed-use properties. We also advise on buy-to-let commercial property, including the legal structures and landlord obligations that come with letting commercial space. Where an investment involves franchised property, licensed premises such as pubs or hotels, or a portfolio of properties, we advise on the additional legal requirements alongside the core property transaction.

Investment due diligence covers everything a buyer needs to know before committing to a purchase. We investigate title, review any existing tenancy agreements, check search results and advise on planning conditions or restrictions that could affect the property’s value or use. For properties that are already let, we review the lease terms carefully, including rent review provisions, break clauses, repairing obligations and any existing rent arrears. Katy Dickinson is noted by The Legal 500 for being “very clear on risks”, which is exactly what investment clients need from their legal adviser.

Yes. We advise investors on commercial mortgages and property finance, working alongside your lender and their solicitors to manage the legal requirements of the transaction. This includes reviewing and advising on the mortgage terms, dealing with any title requirements the lender has, and ensuring the property is properly secured. If you’re refinancing an existing commercial property or raising finance against an investment portfolio, we can assist with that too.

Yes. Acquiring franchised property or licensed premises, such as a pub, restaurant or hotel, involves legal considerations beyond a standard commercial property transaction. For licensed premises, you need to consider whether the appropriate licences are in place and what happens to them on a transfer. For franchised property, the franchise agreement and its terms are relevant to the property transaction itself. We advise on these additional elements alongside the core acquisition.

Disputes relating to investment property are handled by our specialist property litigation team, who work closely with our commercial property solicitors. Common investment-related disputes include landlord and tenant issues such as rent arrears, dilapidations and lease interpretation, as well as professional negligence claims arising from a defective transaction. Where an investment property becomes subject to an insolvency process, we advise on the implications for the landlord or investor. See our Commercial Property Disputes and Property Insolvency Sales pages for more information.