Afleveringen
-
The Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 has brought challenges to the property market, and there’s certainly a lot to consider for both freeholders and leaseholders, but in this episode, we’re looking at existing legislation and the current trend for freehold disposals.
We’re joined by Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, and Chris Macartney, Head of the Landlord and Tenant Team. Together, they take a deep dive into this complex topic that affects anyone with an interest in disposing of or acquiring a freehold interest.
Mark and Chris kick off the discussion by unpacking the nuances of the “curiously drafted” Landlord and Tenant Act 1987.
They provide a detailed overview of Section 5 of the ‘87 Act, shedding light on the Right of Frist Refusal, the ambiguities, and what Section 5s mean for both freeholders and leaseholders.
Throughout this episode, you’ll gain an understanding of the rights and obligations of all parties involved. Mark and Chris also share real-life examples illustrating how selling property interests works in practice.
They cover essential topics such as procedures, timelines, and possible outcomes.
So, if you’re keen to stay informed and prepared as these changes roll out, tune into this episode.
Chapter Markers:
[0:48] Understanding the complexity of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1987 and a glimpse into the Leasehold Reform Act 2024
[3:21] Clarifying the rights and obligations of landlords and leaseholders under Section 5
[4:27] Real-life scenarios and challenges when selling property interests
[8:06] The procedure and timelines for selling property interests under Section 5A (sale by contract)
[11:31] The procedure for selling property interests under Section 5B (sale by auction)
[13:04] The importance of collective action among leaseholders in responding to property purchase offers
[15:00] The distinctions in property laws and regulations related to different types of properties
[16:40] Exploring possible outcomes in case the freeholder rejects the notice
[19:24] Tips for navigating the current landscape of property transactions between freeholders and leaseholders
[22:41] Comparing the costs and the process of the 1987 Act to the 1993 Act
Useful Links:
Leasehold And Freehold Reform Act 2024
Mark Chick LinkedIn
Chris Macartney LinkedIn
-
In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, we dive into the recent government whitepaper on Commonhold reform and what it means for property ownership in the UK.
Charlie Davidson, Senior Associate in the residential team at Bishop & Sewell, is joined by Mark Chick—to discuss the proposed shift from leasehold to commonhold and whether it’s truly the future of property ownership.
Together, they explore the historical challenges of commonhold, why previous attempts at implementation have struggled, and what reforms are needed to make it viable. Mark also breaks down key concerns such as lender hesitations, insolvency risks, and management issues in large developments.
Is commonhold a practical solution or just a fresh coat of paint on existing leasehold issues? And how soon can we expect these changes to take effect?
Tune in as we unpack all the key insights from the latest legal reforms.
Chapter Markers
[00:01:48] What Is the Commonhold White Paper? – Breaking down the government’s latest proposal
[00:04:55] Why Now? – Political motivations and the push for change
[00:06:12] Leasehold vs Commonhold – Does the existing system actually work?
[00:08:48] Commonhold for New Builds vs Existing Flats – Who benefits?
[00:11:44] Who Manages Commonhold Properties? – The reality of self-management
[00:13:22] Mandatory Managing Agents? – A potential solution for large developments
[00:14:53] Legislation Timeline – How long will these reforms take?
Useful Links
Mark Chick LinkedIn
Charlie Davidson LinkedIn
Bishop & Sewell Website
-
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
-
Conveyancing in the UK often takes longer than you’d expect. But here’s the thing: once you understand the reasons behind the delays, the process might feel a bit less stressful. That’s exactly what we’re tackling today.
Join Thom Wilkinson and Charlie Davidson from the residential conveyancing team at Bishop & Sewell in this episode of Listen Without Prejudice as they address one of the most common questions in property transactions: Why does conveyancing take so long?
Thom and Charlie break down the roles and responsibilities of everyone involved and how certain factors—like the client’s proactive involvement—can actually speed things up.
They also discuss the importance of clear and transparent communication between clients, solicitors, and estate agents. After all, effective teamwork is often the key to pushing things forward.
From practical tips on how to collaborate with all parties involved to a discussion on how technology is shaping the process, Thom and Charlie cover it all to help keep your deal on track.
But don’t forget—speed isn’t the ultimate goal here. What really matters is ensuring the transaction is thorough and secure.
Listen to the full episode for more inside scoop on making your transaction as smooth as possible!
Chapter Markers:
[1:20] Understanding the process of conveyancing
[4:00] Discussing the roles and responsibilities of all parties involved in the transaction
[6:44] The importance of transparency and effective communication between clients and their conveyancers to speed up property transactions
[9:11] Tips for following up with solicitors effectively
[11:28] Streamlining communication between estate agents and solicitors
[16:35] Exploring the role of technology and AI in the conveyancing process
[20:17] Balancing between speed and legal risks in conveyancing
[23:10] Concluding thoughts
Useful Links:
Thom Wilkinson LinkedIn
Charlie Davidson LinkedIn
Bishop & Sewell Website
-
Building a lasting reputation in business takes time, dedication, and a commitment to exceptional service—something Stephen Bishop, Co-Founder of Bishop & Sewell, knows all too well.
In this episode of the Listen Without Prejudice podcast, Mark Chick sits down with Stephen to reflect on the journey of Bishop & Sewell, from its humble beginnings to becoming a respected name in the legal industry. Stephen shares valuable lessons he’s learned throughout the years and the journey of building a successful legal practice.
He begins by sharing the story of starting the firm with Jill Sewell, their early challenges, and the values that have always set B&S apart—trust, dedication, and exceptional client care.
Looking back on the firm’s formative years, Stephen highlights its commitment to building strong, empathetic client relationships, earning the reputation of being trusted advisors.
Stephen also shares a unique perspective on leadership—emphasising the importance of supporting and nurturing relationships within a team while fostering a culture of collaboration.
He reflects on the challenges they faced in the early years, including managing risks and maintaining a strong work ethic amid a changing industry.
As he aptly puts it, B&S goes beyond just providing legal services, as they are deeply committed to supporting clients through every challenge, always there when they need them most.
There’s a bright future ahead for B&S, but one thing is certain: the strong foundation and core values that Stephen helped establish will continue to drive the firm’s success for years to come.
Tune into this episode for a fascinating look at the journey of Bishop & Sewell and the insights Stephen Bishop has gained after working for over four decades in the industry.
Chapter Markers:
[1:08] Sharing the origin story of Bishop & Sewell
[4:07] Reflecting on the initial challenges and motivations in the initial years
[6:05] Exploring the initial growth and key milestones of the firm
[9:48] Reflecting on lessons learned, client relationships, and the journey of running a successful legal practice
[12:19] Building strong and long-lasting partnerships
[13:55] Stephen’s perspective on leadership, determination, and advice for aspiring lawyers
[15:53] Addressing the core values that set B&S lawyers apart
[16:37] Building a strong reputation and creating a legacy in the legal field
[18:55] Concluding the episode and sharing a vision for the future of B&S
Useful Links:
Stephen Bishop LinkedIn
Mark Chick LinkedIn
Bishop & Sewell Website
-
When it comes to investing in a leasehold property, one thing becomes crystal clear: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution.
With so many factors at play, having the right advice is essential for putting you in the driver’s seat and helping you make smarter decisions.
That’s exactly what this episode of Listen Without Prejudice is here to deliver!
Join us as Charlie Davidson, Senior Associate in the Property Department, and Mark Chick, Senior Partner and Leasehold Expert at Bishop & Sewell, dive into the key factors to consider when investing in leasehold properties.
First, they’ll help you navigate all the complexities of leasehold agreements and the fine print of lease terms.
Many things you’ve heard—or assumed—about leasehold properties might not be quite what they seem. Mark and Charlie will set the record straight, covering crucial aspects like subletting rules, lease restrictions, and the potential consequences of ignoring key leasehold terms.
Then, they will walk you through essential investment considerations, such as service charge budgets, property management quality, and long-term maintenance planning.
Plus, they share some guidelines for avoiding costly surprises along the way. And, of course, don’t forget: working with a competent and trusted legal advisor is your best defence against pitfalls!
Whether you’re a first-time investor or looking to brush up on your knowledge, this episode is for you. Tune in for practical tips and expert insights on approaching leasehold investments with confidence!
Chapter Markers:
[1:01] Understanding leasehold complexities and lease terms
[2:31] Discussing subletting and lease restrictions
[3:48] The risks of ignoring lease terms
[4:57] The crucial considerations when buying a leasehold property
[7:02] Exploring the essential factors that every leasehold investor must evaluate
[9:23] Navigating leasehold investment options (share of freehold vs. professional landlords)
Useful Links:
Charlie Davidson LinkedIn
Mark Chick LinkedIn
-
Estate planning is essential for protecting your loved ones, your assets, and your peace of mind, but it can often feel overwhelming.
In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, we’re here to make it a little less intimidating and a lot more manageable.
Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, sits down with Nicholas Barlow, Head of the Private Client Team, to discuss the must-know elements of will planning and estate management.
They break down everything, from inheritance tax and the importance of trusts to the vital role of executors—so you can approach estate planning with confidence.
They explain why it’s so important to think ahead and take ownership of your legacy, touching on the risks of intestacy and creating wills without professional help.
From managing complex assets to the emotional side of the process, they cover it all.
Plus, if you’ve got a blended family or a family business to think about, they dive into how trusts can help preserve your wealth for future generations.
Whether you’re just starting to think about your estate or looking to refine your plan, this episode is packed with practical advice to help you protect what matters most. Tune in now!
Chapter Markers
[1:11] Understanding the vital work of private client services at Bishop & Sewell
[2:27] Exploring the risks of intestacy and the importance of estate planning
[4:52] Navigating the practical and personal aspects of estate planning that go beyond the will
[7:39] Managing assets and choosing executors
[11:26] Discussing inheritance tax and intergenerational wealth planning
[14:47] Exploring the potential risks of creating a will without professional help
[15:59] Understanding international estate planning and will variations
[18:48] Key considerations for trusts and wills
Useful Links
Mark Chick
Nicholas Barlow
Private Client Team
-
As the Leasehold Reform Act 2024 inches closer to full implementation, leaseholders and property professionals face increasing uncertainty.
With the full rollout still some time away, many are wondering: What now?
Well, don’t worry—we’ve got you covered. In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, and Chris Macartney, Head of the Landlord and Tenant Team, sit down to chat about the upcoming changes.
Whether you're a leaseholder, landlord, or property professional, this conversation has all the insights you need to understand how the upcoming reforms will affect you.
As experts in this field, Mark and Chris share their best advice on navigating the interim period before the reform act takes full effect.
From the removal of marriage value and capped ground rents to the new leasehold enfranchisement calculations, they break down the key changes that could reshape how you approach property.
They also dive into the practicalities, such as tackling lease extensions, addressing ground rent issues, and understanding valuation shifts.
So, if you’re looking for a clear roadmap through this transition (and a bit of reassurance along the way), tune in for practical tips and plenty of insights to help you make informed decisions about your property.
Chapter Markers:
[1:42] Understanding the Leasehold Reform Act 2024 and collective rights
[5:58] Exploring the history of leasehold reform in the UK, tracing key legislative milestones from the 1967 Act to the recent 2024 Act
[9:33] Discussing the Leasehold Reform (Ground Rent) Act 2022
[12:59] Unpacking the challenges in leasehold advice
[14:27] Discussing recent legislative changes in leasehold reform, precisely ground rent changes
[18:40] Addressing key amendments in the reform and their impact
[21:10] Overview of key changes in the valuation process for leasehold properties
[28:43] Exploring the practical implications of reforms and the expected timeline
[32:53] Navigating the interim before the leasehold reform takes effect
Useful Links:
Leasehold Reform Act 2024
Mark Chick LinkedIn
Chris Macartney LinkedIn
-
In this episode of Listen Without Prejudice, we’re unpacking an exciting topic: what to look for when buying a property.
Mark Chick, Senior Partner at Bishop & Sewell, sits down with Charlie Davidson, Senior Associate in the Residential Property team, to discuss the essential steps of buying a property.
Mark and Charlie walk us through the steps in the conveyancing process, from the moment you first set eyes on a house to the joy of transitioning into homeownership. They go on to explain how to get your finances in order and protect your interests before you start the buying process, touching upon the implications of family financial support. Mark and Charlie also highlight the importance of clear and written communication to ensure clarity and avoid unnecessary conflicts among all parties involved.
Charlie also explains the crucial role of a conveyancer, not only in managing the financial side of property purchases but also in providing you with peace of mind throughout the entire process. Finally, they cover both practical and legal considerations that must be addressed before exchanging contracts, along with extra tips for finalising the entire process and enjoying this new and exciting part of your life.
Whether you’re anxious about buying your first property or you just want to equip yourself with as much information as possible beforehand, this episode is for you! Join us for lots of practical tips that will help you navigate this journey with confidence.
Chapter Markers
[1:17] Introducing the subject and general mindset about homeownership for beginners
[2:30] Basic steps to cover once you’ve found the property you want to buy
[3:25] Ensuring clarity in property transactions
[7:06] Steps to take after an offer is accepted and the crucial role of a lawyer during this stage
[8:31] Managing the uncertainty in property transactions and the importance of legal guidance and due diligence to secure your position
[12:14] Managing family financial assistance in property purchases
[16:06] The importance of clear communication and formal agreements in property transactions
[17:20] Practical considerations of conducting property evaluations
[21:28] Legal considerations before exchanging contracts
[24:50] Navigating the final stage of the property buying process
[30:08] Transitioning into homeownership with peace of mind
Useful Links:
Mark Chick LinkedIn
Charlie Davidson LinkedIn
Bishop & Sewell Website
-
Football governance in England is set for a major shift, with fan movements, the introduction of an Independent Football Regulator (IFR), and growing pressure on clubs to adapt.
In this episode of Listen without Prejudice, we explore what this means for the future of the sport—from financial transparency to stricter regulations—and why football clubs can no longer overlook the need for reform.
Andrew Kavanagh and David Little of the Bishop & Sewell Corporate Commercial and Sports Law teams sit down to share their take on sport and governance.
They discuss the complexities of the current state of football and the need for more robust measures to protect fans, ensure club accountability, and preserve the integrity of the game in the UK.
David and Andy break down the proposed Football Governance Bill and the potential role of an IFR, examining how these changes could impact the way football clubs are run.
Additionally, they delve into the Premier League’s role as one of the UK’s most valuable exports, exploring its unique ownership structure and the financial power of international broadcasting rights.
Finally, they discuss the broader impact these governance changes could have on football culture, reflecting on the growing influence of fan-led movements and the government's increasing involvement.
With football at a crossroads, this conversation highlights why governance and regulation are crucial for securing its future.
Catch the full discussion in this week’s episode!
Chapter Markers:
[1:23] Discussing the current state of football governance and the need for football governance reform in the UK
[5:05] Examining Labour’s Proposed Football Governance Bill
[11:01] UEFA’s response to the UK government's proposed independent football regulator
[14:06] Exploring the unique cultural value of football clubs and the impact of poor governance
[15:52] Examining Premier League’s global influence and governance challenges
[20:31] Discussing the gaps in football governance and recent fan-related issues
[22:20] The potential role of Independent Football Regulator (IFR)
[23:15] The importance of financial transparency in football clubs
[24:44] Government’s role and the future of football governance
Useful Links:
Andrew Kavanagh LinkedIn
David Little LinkedIn
Football Governance Bill
-
Listen Without Prejudice brings you behind the scenes at Bishop & Sewell, one of London’s most forward-thinking law firms, and offers an insider’s perspective on the legal issues of the day.
Meet solicitors from across the firm as they take us through issues they’re dealing with in practice, current trends and legal updates, and provide insights on a range of subjects - from real estate and business law to family and private client matters.
Each episode offers valuable takeaways, featuring expert insights, real-world relevance, and valuable tips to apply to your private and business life.
For a smart, insider’s perspective, subscribe to Listen Without Prejudice, brought to you by Bishop & Sewell.
