A direct sale is only one possible route. Depending on the circumstances, parties may consider a conditional contract, an option agreement or another structure documented by solicitors.
Why not simply sell the land immediately?
Land without planning consent carries uncertainty. A purchaser must account for planning risk, professional fees, time and the possibility of refusal. Exploring planning potential can sometimes create value, but it also requires expertise and expenditure.
What is an option agreement?
An option agreement can give a developer the right—but not an automatic obligation—to buy land during an agreed period, normally while planning is pursued. The precise terms vary and both sides should use independent solicitors. This website does not replace legal advice.
Read the landowner guide to option agreements →
How ARM Developments approaches a site
Confidential review
We assess the site and obvious constraints without requiring the owner to prepare plans.
Open discussion
We discuss the owner’s objectives, likely timescale and whether further professional work is justified.
Documented arrangement
If both sides wish to proceed, solicitors document the commercial and legal position before planning expenditure begins.
Independent advice matters
Land transactions can have legal, tax, valuation and long-term property consequences. We expect landowners to have the opportunity to take appropriate independent advice before entering a binding agreement.