Case study: site set-up and sale of 10 new build plots in Somerset

Our new build lawyers recently acted on the site set-up, sale and refinance of 10 new build plots in Hinton St George, South Somerset.

Acting for Strawberry Property, the New Build team provided legal advice on the set up of their Hanstone development in order for it to be ready for plot sales, and acted on those subsequent plot sales and refinance.

Preparation for development

Our new build lawyers worked with the Bristol-based property developer on collating all relevant paperwork for the legal contract packs including title documents, planning permissions, section agreements, specifications, service plans and warranty details. Our solicitors reviewed the title, identifying any issues early on to ensure a smooth process for the developer.

We also prepared an initial draft of transfer documents and advised Strawberry Property as to what various terms meant, and what covenants may be appropriate for the development and required in accordance with the granted planning in Hinton St George.

Our new build experts also worked with our Commercial team to set up the management company and advise them on their responsibilities going forward.

Sale of new build plots

Our new build solicitors successfully acted on six disposals and dealt with the redemption of the existing development finance, with the final plot offered for sale having just exchanged and due for completion in November 2021.

The new build homes, situated in the picturesque village of Hinton St George, are within perfect commuting distance for Yeovil and Taunton, with countryside views and a fishing lake nearby. The development comprises three, four and five bedroom houses, each of which boasts modern interior design and off-street parking.

All plots sold were marketed by Jackson Stops, and three were retained by Strawberry Property to be let as affordable homes for residents of the adjoining Parishes. Solicitor, Naomi O’Brien, who specialises in new build and commercial property, dealt with the refinance and separation of these three plots.

Our Commercial Property team had previously assisted Strawberry Property with the grant of development finance in 2018, and has worked closely with the New Build team to assist with the section 104 agreement (adoption of sewers), section 278 agreement (highways) and section 220 bond (roadways) required at Hanstone.

As a firm, we have been involved with the development since 2018, and we are very pleased to have been able to assist throughout the entire project.

Get in touch with our new build development lawyers

If you are a property developer looking for legal advice on acquisitions, site set-ups, plot sales or refinance, our new build solicitors are here to help.

As well as acting for property developers, our team can also help purchasers of new build property, with their knowledge extending to the Help to Buy and shared ownership schemes. They are on the panel for a number of housebuilders in Bristol and across the South West, and work with our Commercial Property and Commercial teams to ensure your legal needs are taken care of.

To get in touch, call us on 0117 325 2929 or fill out our online enquiry form.