Blog
Can repurposing retail units save the high street?
It has been well-reported that physical shops and retailers have been struggling in recent years due to the shift to internet shopping. Back in 2021, in the midst of the COVID-19 crisis, Local Data Company (LDC) analysis of shopping centres in England, Scotland and Wales, suggested that 70 shopping centres across the UK were at…
Read MoreConsiderations before signing a commercial lease
Whether you are looking for your first commercial work space or re-locating, the lease you sign can have a significant impact on the success of your business. But before you sign, there are a number of considerations that will ensure the lease reflects your needs now and into the future. Timing – allow enough time…
Read MoreThe future of electronically signed property deals
History in the making In today’s digital world, there is an increasing demand for convenient methods of entering into legally binding real estate transaction documents. Just this past week, history has been made in the UK with the completion of the first electronically signed real estate transfer which did not require a witness. How was…
Read MoreNew register of overseas property owners fast-tracked by UK in response to the war in Ukraine
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has presented significant political and humanitarian challenges for Western governments; not least of all in terms of how to respond. The NATO countries have been careful to avoid military escalation beyond Ukraine’s borders and countries have provided varying degrees and forms of support to Ukraine. Perhaps the most unified response has…
Read MoreHow technology is giving lawyers the edge on advising in real estate
One of the key differences between Newmanor Law and mainstream law firms is that we actively embrace new ways of working and, in particular, the use of technology. For many firms, technology is a threat to their fee income because doing deals quickly reduces chargeable hours which translates to smaller bills. At Newmanor Law, our…
Read MoreDogs in the office – Is it legal to welcome pets into the workplace?
The fact that animals can improve our physical and mental wellbeing is well-reported. Stroking a pet can help to reduce the production of hormones such as cortisol and lessen our responses to stressful situations. Reduced levels of stress lead to lower blood pressure, fewer heart problems, and improved sleep. If we are healthier and happier,…
Read MoreRansom strips needn’t develop into a legal headache
The idea of someone owning a small piece of land and thereby holding a large property development to ransom will most likely strike fear into the heads and hearts of property developers. However, despite their intimidating name, ‘ransom strips’ need not be the problem they are deemed to be by many. What are ransom strips?…
Read MoreDevelopment finance: navigating the legal process
Here at Newmanor Law we focus on commercial real estate and one of our main areas of activity is development finance. In 2020 we helped lenders complete 28 loans with an aggregate value of £96m. Philosophically (not a word you hear often in the law) we like to work collaboratively, not confrontationally, and we aim…
Read MoreChanges in fire safety regime for developers of high-rise buildings from 1st August 2021
Why is planning gateway one being introduced? Planning gateway one is being introduced as part of the government’s commitment to delivering on Dame Judith Hackitt’s recommendations in relation to building and fire safety, following the Grenfell Tower fire tragedy in June 2017. Dame Hackitt’s final report was published in 2018 and highlighted the need for…
Read MoreHow to formalise a temporary rent reduction in a care home setting
Following the devastating number of deaths in care homes as a result of the pandemic, it is sadly not surprising that some care home business tenants are struggling to pay their rent. If you are a landlord of a care home and have been contacted to discuss rent reductions, this article will help you as…
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