Most London flats are sold leasehold, meaning you own the property for a fixed term while someone else owns the freehold.
Key items to check
- Lease length – short leases are more expensive to extend and can affect mortgageability. Many lenders prefer 90+ years remaining.
- Ground rent – check the amount and any review clauses.
- Service charge and major works – ask for accounts and any planned works.
- Building safety – ask your solicitor about fire safety remediation and cladding for taller buildings.
- Share of freehold – owned jointly by the flat owners and often more flexible.
Every Ideal Locations listing includes tenure, lease length, ground rent and service charge so that you have the key facts up front.
