Graham Roberts

We have recently concluded a major project for the new investors of a well known nationwide client involving the transfer of over 100 properties within a tightly defined timeframe.

A steady pair of hands with a constant and persistent approach to the task at hand were optimum qualities in getting the job done.  Organisation, control, calmness as well as a rational and pragmatic approach deflecting stress away from the client whilst keeping all other interested parties fully informed, queries answered and matters constantly moving forward.

We are proud to be associated with a well loved and recognised brand and company.  With the current project successfully concluded and the client’s position re-established in the lettings market I am pleased to be one cog within their expansion plans moving forward.

We act for a number of national and regional retail chains.  This will involve dealings with both large institutional landlords as wells as far smaller individual landlords.

Even now, with many High Streets seemingly on their knees, voids increasing on a weekly basis and empty business rates potentially accruing, it is evident that some landlords are either not being advised by their professional advisors or are not willing to acknowledge the market shift in the lettings market.  Upwards only rent reviews, potentially unworkable conditional break clauses, underlettings at the higher of passing or open market rent, full repairing leases (when plainly buildings are not in full repair), rents payable quarterly (rather than monthly) in advance are still being drafted, even where these points are seemingly covered in the Heads of Terms.

Clients need to be advised that they should not be accepting leases on this basis and to have the confidence that their solicitors are fighting their corner and ensuring that landlords come into line with good practice and, for example, the Code of Practice for Commercial Leases.  This may mean building close working relationships with a client’s letting agents so that they know what to look to include in Heads of Terms to avoid delays in negotiations down the line.  Alternatively, whilst always understanding the client’s timeframe and needs it is imperative to quietly but firmly argue the tenant’s position so that, come exchange, the client knows that when he commits to a lease it will be on terms that are neither unfair nor out of step with what a tenant should be asked to accept in the current market

We act for commercial property investor clients who own a range of mixed use properties be they offices, warehouses or retail or be they single or multi let occupancies.  We will manage the day to day legals that arise through new or existing lettings within a development whilst the client explores his perceived angle and looks to increase the investment value of his holding. 

For example, within industrial estates those clients may well own large units and smaller units, the latter for start-up companies.  At all times, and in particular in a challenging market that is currently the case, it is vital to keep the client’s income stream flowing.  That means understanding the “bigger picture” and getting the client’s short term leases for the smaller units concluded swiftly and effortlessly whilst protecting his investment value.  

Knowing your client, understanding his targeted tenant audience and being able to communicate to those prospective occupants in a style and manner that eases a deal through is crucial.  Less jargon, more practical common sense with a down to earth approachable style is the key.  A swiftly occupied unit with a happy tenant should, in turn, make for a happy client!