How we buy land
Outright purchase, subject to planning, option agreements and joint ventures.
We buy land in four ways: an outright purchase; a subject-to-planning (conditional) contract; an option agreement; or a joint venture. The best route depends on planning, site size and how much risk and involvement you want.
Which way of selling suits my land?
It depends on the planning position, the size of the site and how much risk you want to keep. We will suggest a structure after our free appraisal.
| Route | In short | Usually suits |
|---|---|---|
| Outright purchase | We agree a price and buy the land, with no planning condition attached. | Land with outline or full planning permission |
| Subject-to-planning contract | We agree a price now and complete once a satisfactory planning permission is granted. | Land without planning that has a realistic route |
| Option agreement | You grant us the right to buy within a set period, usually for an option premium, while we pursue planning. | Farmland and larger edge-of-settlement sites |
| Joint venture | You contribute the land, we fund and manage planning and delivery, and the proceeds are shared as agreed. | Owners of larger or well-located sites |
Questions
Can I include overage in an outright sale?
Yes. If you want a share of any future uplift, for example if a larger scheme is later approved, an overage clause can be negotiated.
What counts as a satisfactory permission?
The contract defines it: usually the number and type of homes, acceptable conditions and planning obligations, and the end of the judicial review period.
How long do options last?
It varies with the site and the planning route, from a few years for smaller sites to longer for strategic land. Extension terms are often included.
Do I need to put money in?
Not usually. In most landowner joint ventures the land is the owner's contribution and we fund the costs, which are recovered from the proceeds before profit is shared. Structures vary.