Leasehold properties — flats, apartments, and some houses — require specialist legal knowledge. We match you with solicitors who understand lease terms, management packs, service charges, and freeholder negotiations.
Your solicitor will review the management pack from the freeholder or managing agent — including service charge accounts, building insurance, reserve funds, and any planned major works that could affect your costs as a buyer.
Properties with fewer than 80 years remaining on the lease can be difficult to mortgage and sell. Under 70 years becomes seriously problematic. Your solicitor will flag short-lease issues and advise on extension options.
Your solicitor checks the current and historical service charges and any ground rent — particularly important since the 2023 Leasehold Reform Act changes to ground rent for new leases.
Some leases require freeholder consent to alterations, subletting, or change of use. Your solicitor identifies any such clauses before you commit to the purchase.
| Transaction | Freehold Fee | Leasehold Fee | Extra cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Buying (to £250,000) | £850 – £1,100 | £1,050 – £1,400 | +£200–£400 |
| Buying (£250k–£500k) | £950 – £1,350 | £1,150 – £1,650 | +£200–£400 |
| Selling (to £250,000) | £700 – £950 | £900 – £1,200 | +£200–£300 |
| Lease extension | N/A | £1,200 – £2,500 | — |