How do I make an offer to buy premises?

Before making an offer, take advice on the most tax-efficient way to acquire the premises. Depending on the circumstances, it may be appropriate to buy premises using your pension scheme, or through a separate company.

It's normally a good idea to make a written offer to show that you are serious. Make it clear what the conditions are. Typically, the offer might be conditional on a satisfactory survey and property searches, contract conditions and so on. You may also have conditions specific to your circumstances: for example, you might only want the premises if you can get planning permission for a change of use. Your adviser can draft a conditional offer for you.

Continue negotiating until you exchange contracts. Look for opportunities to reduce the price you pay (see 8). You may want to protect yourself with a lockout agreement (see 9).

Related Resources

in the Muckle LLP Resource Centre