The group companies recognised ground rents as a valuable investment over 25 years ago and have steadily acquired a large portfolio of ground rents which continuous to grow. The companies purchase directly from developers, individual freeholders, agents and by way of company acquisitions.
As a privately funded group we are able to make decisions without complex board approvals and with an experienced in house legal department able to handle complex transactions in a professional and timely manner. The group is always seeking new opportunities. Flexible approach coupled with financial strength allows us to structure large deals.
The ground rent portfolio is actively managed by Urbanpoint Property Management Ltd and other managing agents.
1. What is a Ground Rent?
A ground rent is created when a developer builds a block of flats or converts a building into flats. A lease will then be drawn up which can vary in length and then sold to a lessee whilst the developer (Freeholder) retains the land and charges the lessees an annual ground rent which can again vary. We can give you advice on what to put in the lease to maximise its value without impacting the saleability of the flats.
2. Who purchases Freehold Ground Rents?
We have a number of investors ranging from pension funds and institutional buyers to established property companies and private investors.
3. Why would they buy Ground Rents?
Ground rents represent a safe investment with a steady income stream and in most cases the annual ground rent will increase throughout the term of the lease which combats inflation.
4. How much might my Ground Rent be worth?
This will depend on a number of factors including length of lease, the income stream and by how much and when the annual ground rent increases and whether the freehold has management and insurance rights. Please call for further information.
5. Is there a legal procedure to follow when selling Freehold Ground Rents?
The freeholder after agreeing a sale by private treaty is required by law to serve section 5a notices to each of the long leaseholders This gives them the right but not the obligation to purchase the ground rents at the price stated on the notice. They have two months to respond and then a further two months to nominate a purchaser. Once the Section 5a notices have expired the sale can progress to completion. There are some cases where section 5 notices are not required to be served. Please call to discuss.
6. Any other questions?
Please contact us and you will be professionally advised by one of our directors. Thank you.
