Commercial Property
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Commercial Real Estate Lawyers
Our Commercial Property Solicitors offer specialist legal advice for every aspect of commercial real estate transactions. We act for developers, landlords, tenants, investors and business owners, ensuring every transaction is handled with the precision and urgency it demands.
With over 30 years of experience in Commercial Property Law, Clifford Johnston & Co. is a recognised and trusted name across Stockport, Manchester and the wider North West. Our clients return to us for our pragmatic approach, local market insight and commitment to delivering outcomes that align with their commercial objectives.
Property transactions in the commercial sector are often high-value and time-sensitive. Delays, oversights or poorly drafted agreements can lead to costly consequences. Our team takes a proactive role at every stage, identifying potential risks early, driving progress, and ensuring all parties are aligned. We keep you informed with clear, jargon-free updates, so you remain in control throughout the process.
We are accredited under the Law Society’s Conveyancing Quality Scheme (CQS), a mark of excellence in legal practice and client care. Our focus is on transparency, efficiency and results – whether it involves lease negotiations, site acquisitions, refinancing or property management.
If you’re looking for reliable and responsive Commercial Property Solicitors in Manchester, contact us today to work with a team that puts your business interests first.
How can our Commercial Property Solicitors Help?
At Clifford Johnston & Co., we understand that commercial property transactions are rarely straightforward. They often involve significant investment, strict timescales, and the need to weigh legal risks against commercial opportunities. That is why our approach is built around providing advice that is not only accurate in law but also practical in business.
We bring commercial awareness to every matter, recognising the pressures faced by business owners, investors and developers, and ensuring that our guidance supports both immediate objectives and long-term plans. Our solicitors are proactive problem solvers, identifying potential issues at an early stage so that delays, disputes or unexpected costs can be avoided.
We also place great emphasis on timing. Commercial deals often rely on deadlines being met, and we work efficiently and effectively to ensure your transaction progresses smoothly to completion. Where other professionals are involved, such as agents, accountants, lenders or surveyors — we collaborate seamlessly to ensure every aspect of your deal is coordinated.
Throughout the process, we keep communication clear and consistent. We explain complex issues in plain language, keep you informed of progress, and make sure you always know exactly where you stand. Above all, our aim is to protect your interests and deliver results that allow you to focus on running your business with confidence.
Our Commercial Property Services
At Clifford Johnston & Co, our Commercial Property Solicitors provide strategic legal advice to developers, business owners, landlords and investors on all aspects of Commercial Property Law. We work with clients across Manchester, Stockport and throughout England and Wales, supporting a diverse range of commercial real estate transactions.
Our team is known for handling complex matters with clarity, urgency and commercial insight. We focus on protecting your interests while facilitating progress – whether you’re managing a portfolio, negotiating a new lease, or navigating a property acquisition.
Clients instruct us for advice on areas including:
Sales and Purchases
We act on the sale and purchase of all types of commercial property, from individual retail units to multi-property portfolios. Our commercial conveyancing solicitors carry out detailed due diligence, highlighting any risks at an early stage and ensuring that your deal progresses without unnecessary delays.
Commercial Leases
We represent both landlords and tenants in the negotiation and renewal of commercial leases. From rent review provisions to repair obligations and break clauses, we ensure that the terms are fair, balanced and fully understood.
Property Finance and Refinancing
We assist with funding arrangements for acquisitions, developments and refinancing, working closely with banks, private lenders and financial advisers to ensure all legal requirements are met and finance is secured efficiently.
Key Legal Considerations
Commercial property transactions involve a number of legal and financial issues that must be carefully considered before any deal is completed. At Clifford Johnston & Co., we ensure that all risks are identified early and that your interests are fully protected throughout the process.
Some of the most important considerations include:
- Due diligence – reviewing title deeds, searches and planning permissions to identify restrictions, covenants or liabilities that could affect how the property is used or its long-term value.
- Lease terms – examining obligations such as repair clauses, rent review provisions, service charges and break rights, all of which can significantly impact the profitability and flexibility of your business.
- Finance and lending – working with banks and other lenders to meet their requirements, satisfy conditions and secure funding without unnecessary delay.
- Tax implications – considering the impact of Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), VAT and Capital Gains Tax with the support of accountants and financial advisers where appropriate.
By guiding you through each of these considerations, we provide clarity and reassurance, giving you the confidence to move forward with your transaction on solid legal ground.
Frequently Asked Questions About Commercial Property Law
Do I Need a Solicitor to Buy or Sell a Commercial Property?
Yes. A solicitor plays a vital role in ensuring every aspect of a Commercial Property transaction is legally sound and commercially viable.
They will carry out due diligence, draft and negotiate contracts, check for planning or title issues, and ensure the deal progresses without unnecessary risk or delay. This is essential for protecting your investment and minimising exposure to liabilities.
Our Commercial Property Solicitors provide clear, strategic advice from the outset and manage the entire legal process to completion with confidence and efficiency.
How Long Does a Commercial Property Transaction Take?
The timescale varies depending on the nature of the deal and the number of parties involved in the Commercial Property transaction.
Straightforward purchases or sales may be completed in as little as 6 to 12 weeks. However, more complex matters such as transactions involving lender consent, leasehold interests, or conditional planning permissions, may take longer.
Our Commercial Property Solicitors will give you a realistic timeline at the outset and keep you informed throughout to avoid delays and keep the process moving.
What Are the Main Risks of Taking on a Commercial Lease?
A commercial lease can include obligations that significantly affect your legal and financial position over time.
Common risks include full repairing liabilities, rising service charges, restrictions on alterations or usage, and break clauses that are difficult to exercise. Without proper legal advice, these terms can expose tenants to hidden costs or inflexible conditions.
Our Commercial Property Solicitors review every lease in detail, negotiate favourable terms, and ensure you understand your responsibilities before entering into any agreement.
What Costs Should I Budget for When Investing in Commercial Property?
The costs involved in a Commercial Property transaction go beyond the purchase price or rent.
You should budget for legal fees, Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT), Land Registry charges, VAT (where applicable), professional surveys, and potential ongoing costs such as management fees or insurance contributions.
Our Commercial Property Solicitors provide clear and transparent fee estimates from the outset, so you can budget confidently and avoid unexpected financial surprises.
What Searches Are Carried Out in a Commercial Property Purchase?
Searches are a key part of the due diligence process and help uncover risks that may affect your use or investment in the property.
Typical searches include local authority checks, drainage and water reports, environmental assessments, and in some areas, mining or flood risk searches. These identify potential planning issues, contamination, access rights, or liabilities that could impact your decision to proceed.
Our Commercial Property Solicitors arrange and interpret all relevant searches to ensure you are fully informed before contracts are exchanged.
Can Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) Apply to Leases as Well as Purchases?
Yes. SDLT is not limited to freehold purchases, it can also apply to the rental value of commercial leases.
The amount payable depends on factors such as the length of the lease and the total rent over the term. In some cases, lease premiums are also liable for SDLT. Calculating this accurately is essential to avoid penalties or delays in registration.
Our Commercial Property Solicitors will advise you on your SDLT obligations and handle all submissions with HMRC as part of the transaction process.
Contact our Commercial Property Solicitors
If you are buying, selling, leasing, or developing commercial property, our experienced solicitors are here to help. We provide clear, practical advice that keeps your transaction on track and ensures your investment is properly protected.
With offices in Manchester and Stockport, we act for clients across Cheshire and the wider North West, supporting everyone from small business owners and first-time investors to large developers and established landlords. Our solicitor-led service means you will always have a dedicated point of contact, with regular updates and straightforward guidance throughout.
We are proud of our reputation for efficiency, professionalism, and attention to detail and we are committed to making your commercial property transaction as smooth and stress-free as possible.
For confidential advice or to request a fixed-fee quote, contact our Commercial Property Solicitors today. Call us directly, complete our online enquiry form, or visit one of our offices, we will be happy to assist.
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