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The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 introduces significant changes to leasehold property laws in the UK

Publish Date: 05 February 2025

By Jade Shrubsole

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Further reading

How to Check If a Property Has Been to Auction Before

Bridging Loans Explained: A Guide for Property Auction Buyers

The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 introduces significant changes to leasehold property laws in the UK, notably abolishing the two-year ownership requirement for leaseholders wishing to extend their lease or purchase the freehold. Effective from 31 January 2025, leaseholders can initiate these processes immediately upon acquiring a property, eliminating the previous mandatory waiting period.

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This reform is anticipated to have several impacts on UK property auctions:

1. Increased Attractiveness of Leasehold Properties: The removal of the two-year rule makes leasehold properties more appealing to potential buyers, as they now have the immediate option to extend leases or acquire the freehold. This increased flexibility can enhance buyer confidence and potentially lead to higher demand for leasehold properties at auctions.
2. Potential for Higher Auction Prices: With the newfound ability to promptly extend leases or purchase freeholds, buyers may be willing to bid more competitively on leasehold properties. The immediate opportunity to secure a longer lease term or full ownership can increase the perceived value of these properties, potentially driving up auction prices.
3. Broader Buyer Participation: Previously, the two-year ownership requirement may have deterred certain investors or individuals seeking quick returns or immediate control over property terms. Its abolition opens the market to a wider range of buyers, including those looking to swiftly enhance property value through lease extensions or freehold acquisitions.
4. Impact on Auction Inventory: Property owners who were hesitant to sell leasehold properties with shorter leases might now be more inclined to list these properties for auction, knowing that buyers have the immediate option to extend leases. This could lead to an increase in the number of leasehold properties available in auctions.

Overall, the abolition of the two-year rule under the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 is expected to stimulate activity in UK property auctions, making leasehold properties more attractive to a broader spectrum of buyers and potentially leading to more dynamic bidding environments. Search leasehold properties using our detailed search - tenure option!