Urgent Commercial Property Acquisition in Stockport

Client Background

I was instructed by a newly established property investment company taking their first steps into the commercial market. Based in the North West, they are business owners with plans to grow a diversified property portfolio.

The Legal Issue

The client sought to acquire a commercial block of offices in the heart of Stockport. This was a high-value, time-sensitive transaction with a strict six-week completion deadline. The urgency was compounded by contractual terms set out in the Heads of Terms that required the buyer to forfeit their deposit if the deal did not complete on time.

Challenges

This was a particularly sensitive acquisition. The seller was inflexible on timing, and the contract package was not issued until after the deposit had been committed. That created inherent legal risk, which required careful management and regular, honest communication with the client.

Confidentiality was another essential element. The client required the transaction to proceed discreetly while thorough due diligence was carried out. The risks of non-completion were significant, both financially and reputationally.

My Approach

Given the high stakes and tight timeframe, my first priority was to establish clear lines of communication and ensure the client was aware of all risks. I undertook a swift but thorough review of the title and supporting documentation and flagged issues as early as possible.

To meet the six-week deadline, I coordinated closely with the client, seller’s solicitor and all third parties. I kept momentum up through daily progress checks and ensured no aspect of the process stalled. At all times, I maintained strict confidentiality.

Outcome

We successfully completed the acquisition within the six-week timescale. Despite limited access to information at the outset, and the pressure of a substantial deposit being committed early, we were able to navigate the risks and deliver the result the client needed.

The second phase is now underway. I am currently advising on the grant of a commercial lease to the incoming tenant, expected to occupy the premises in 2026.

Reflection

This was a testing matter, not just because of the legal intricacies, but due to the commercial pressures surrounding the deal. The client’s trust, built through previous residential transactions, allowed us to move decisively while remaining cautious. Careful scrutiny and constant communication were key.

Comment from Horup Khan

“Acting on this transaction required a balance of speed, discretion and care. The client took a bold step by committing early, and I was determined to ensure that confidence was not misplaced. We completed on time, protected their investment, and set the foundations for their future portfolio.”

Clifford Johnston & Co. is a well-established firm with offices in Manchester and Stockport, supporting clients across Greater Manchester and throughout the UK. We act for investors, developers and business owners in the purchase, sale and management of commercial property. Our experienced Commercial Property Solicitors provide clear, responsive advice to ensure transactions are completed efficiently and securely—even under tight deadlines.

With the second phase of this matter involving lease negotiations, our Commercial Lease Solicitors are continuing to support the client in preparing a sound tenancy agreement. We offer practical, strategic guidance on all aspects of commercial leasing to protect your investment and support long-term success.