Tom Warrender, partner, board member and co-head of commercial property at Wilson Browne Solicitors, discusses activity in the commercial property market and why involving advisers early can help transactions progress smoothly.

There seems to be something of a buzz and energy around the commercial property market at the moment. Enquiries are coming in, the phone is ringing, and there are signs of movement. This has been particularly noticeable over the last few weeks.
As market activity builds, the key is getting professional advice at as early a stage as possible. Of course, once a transaction is agreed, we can step in and help facilitate it. However, perhaps what we value most is the ability to get involved early on.
That is not simply about starting the clock running. Far from it. It is about giving pointers, offering initial advice, casting an eye over things and providing a commercial sounding board.
Taking that time to provide some initial advice can prevent problems further down the line. Sometimes those calls are simply exploratory conversations that go no further, but goodwill is built. Others result in us being instructed on a transaction, with things progressing smoothly from there.
Alongside the usual pointers and discussions about potential deals, our early involvement has recently included reviewing a client’s property portfolio and checking that titles and registered leases are up to date.
We have also been casting an eye over draft heads of terms for a potentially significant development deal and carrying out initial title investigations before a client puts in an offer on a project. There is plenty in between, too.
Our message is simple: pick up the phone and let’s have a chat. The earlier we are involved, the better we can help.
Contact Tom Warrender at Wilson Browne Solicitors to discuss your plans.
The commercial property market is moving, and our team continues to help clients take their next steps.
We were also delighted to receive recognition once again in The Legal 500, alongside colleagues across the firm. From a property perspective, this included commercial property, social housing and agriculture and estates. I was also pleased to be recognised again as a Leading Partner.

