Development Acquisition and Funding

Complex acquisition and development of a back garden residential development site in Surrey with multiple landowners

We advised a regional house builder on the acquisition and development of a back garden residential development site in Surrey, comprising multiple land parcels owned by different landowners. The transaction involved complex title, overage, and ransom strip arrangements, together with layered development finance and subsequent plot sales.

The completed scheme had a Gross Development Value (GDV) of approximately £6 million.

The Challenge

The development site was assembled from several adjoining back gardens, each held under separate ownership. The legal structure of the transaction presented a number of challenges:

Multiple acquisitions from different landowners
Overage provisions triggered on future development value
Ransom strip issues affecting access and services
Tight funding deadlines driven by development finance
Coordination of senior and mezzanine lenders
Requirement for onward plot sales following development

Our client required clear, commercial legal advice to manage risk, unlock value, and ensure the project remained viable and fundable.

Our Role

We provided end-to-end legal support across the acquisition, funding, and disposal phases of the development.

Acquisition & Site Assembly

Negotiated and completed the acquisition of multiple land parcels from separate landowners
Drafted and advised on overage arrangements to balance landowner expectations with developer risk
Resolved ransom strip issues through negotiated releases and legal rights to ensure full site access and service connectivity
Undertook detailed title due diligence to satisfy both the developer and funders

Development Finance

Acted on the development finance from a specialist senior lender
Advised on and coordinated secondary mezzanine finance alongside the senior facility
Ensured intercreditor arrangements were properly documented and aligned with the development timetable
Worked closely with funders’ solicitors to achieve a timely and bankable structure

Plot Sales

Advised on the subsequent sale of individual residential plots
Prepared a comprehensive “Legal Handbook” to assist in streamlining plot-purchase due diligence enquiries
Ensured smooth releases of security and compliance with funding conditions

The Outcome

The acquisitions were completed successfully, enabling the developer to commence construction without delay. The development fi nance was put in place on time, and the project proceeded to completion, with plot sales progressing smoothly.

Why Choose Us?

Development-Led Thinking – We understand the commercial realities of residential development, not just the legal mechanics.
Complex Site Assembly Expertise – Extensive experience in multi-title acquisitions, overage, and ransom strip negotiations.
Finance Capability – Proven track record acting on senior, mezzanine, and specialist development fi nance transactions.
London & South East Focus – Deep familiarity with development issues across London, Surrey, and the wider UK market.
End-to-End Service – From land acquisition through funding to plot sales, we
support the full lifecycle of a development.
End-to-End Service – From land acquisition through funding to plot sales, we support the full lifecycle of a development.

If you are a developer, investor, or lender involved in residential or mixed-use
schemes, our commercial property and development team can provide clear,
pragmatic legal advice from acquisition to exit.

Get in touch

I can only recommend Ashworths. Been using them for over 15 years, simply the best.”

Mr V. London

Why choose us?

Diana Greenham and her team at Ashworths

Diana Greenham and her team at Ashworths have been fantastic in supporting and guiding us through the conveyancing requirements for our property. They were exceptionally thorough, efficient, and professional throughout the entire process, and always supportive and kind. Their expertise and ability to handle questions and resolve issues were truly impressive.

AM Feb 13, 2026

No hesitation in recommending!

Ashworths are an excellent firm of solicitors. I have retained them on a number of property related sales. Their attention to detail was impressive as was their very personal style of service.

Davif Farrell Jan 12, 2026

Excellent

In handling my commercial leases and property transactions, Brendan at Ashworths Solicitors has demonstrated an exceptional level of professionalism and expertise. He approaches every matter with precision, efficiency, and a clear focus on achieving…

Alex Winchester Jan 31, 2025

James Simmonds, Ashworths

James Simmonds looked after the sale and purchase of properties for my mother with competence, efficiency and compassion. I would not hesitate to recommend his services and I hope to be able to use him again in due course.

Susannah Sykes Oct 19, 2025

Good Job Professionally...

Brendan carried out first class work with the sale of our property on a matter that was not straight forward. He clearly demonstrated the ability to make things happen whilst using clear instructions that get to the point and deliver results.

John Baxter Oct 14, 2025

Areej was fantastic she was always…

Areej was fantastic she was always quick to respond, cheerful and incredibly clear. Her advice as informed and precise and her conduct was professional and accessible. Thank you so much!

Oscar Pearce Oct 12, 2025

Ashworths matched my needs exactly

Ashworths matched my needs exactly. Local, focused on property and represented owell. I have no hesitation recommending them.

John Simmonds Oct 8, 2025

I've always used Ashworths for all my…

I’ve always used Ashworths for all my properties since being a first time buyer, I simply wouldn’t go anywhere else. They are brilliant at what they do, knowledgeable, efficient, and I can always trust the team will do a top level job. I recommend them to all my friends.

Lucy Sep 29, 2025

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