In this guide
Two routes through BeFreehold
We help leaseholders explore both voluntary and statutory purchases. Voluntary negotiation is our preferred starting point where an agreement is realistic. If that route is unsuitable or does not lead to acceptable terms, ask us about a separate statutory assessment and the specialist support required.
Voluntary purchase
Agree a purchase directly with the freeholder. Start with an indicative valuation, then choose our £99 approach and negotiation service.
Explore the voluntary process A formal route for qualifying leaseholdersStatutory purchase
Use a legal right to buy, where you qualify. Formal notices, specialist advice and potential disputes can mean more time and significantly higher process costs.
Understand the statutory routeCompare the routes
The route changes how the purchase is pursued. It does not tell you, on its own, which final deal will be better for your home.
| Question | Voluntary purchase | Statutory purchase |
|---|---|---|
| How does it begin? | A proposed purchase and negotiation with a willing freeholder. | An eligibility assessment followed by a formal claim under the applicable law. |
| Does the freeholder have to sell? | No. Both sides must agree the price and terms. | A qualifying legal right can require a sale, subject to the statutory requirements. |
| How is the figure reached? | Negotiated terms. Our indicative valuation provides the starting point for the offer. | A statutory valuation basis applies; specialist advice is needed to assess it. |
| What work is involved? | Proposal preparation, negotiation and an agreed transfer. | Formal notices, legal and valuation work, deadlines and, if necessary, dispute resolution. |
| Which is faster or less costly? | Can avoid the formal claim stage and its associated work when agreement is achievable. | Can involve a longer process and significantly higher professional costs. The purchase price itself may differ. |
| What does BeFreehold charge? | £99 approach service, credited if you complete; completion support included in the purchase figure; optional £349 registration support. | A separate assessment and written scope are needed. Our voluntary fees are not a statutory package quote. |
Why start voluntarily?
A willing seller and an agreed price can make a formal claim unnecessary. You can first see whether an acceptable deal is possible, with a clear decision after negotiation. We prepare the proposal and negotiate based on the indicative valuation you agreed; you then accept or reject the deal figure and terms.
When statutory advice matters
If the seller refuses, the proposed terms are unacceptable, or your title or lease needs specialist assessment, a statutory route may merit consideration. Check eligibility, the likely premium, professional costs and the legal consequences of starting a claim before deciding.
Compare the whole cost
Formal proceedings can add substantially to professional and process costs. That does not prove the statutory purchase price will be higher: it is assessed differently. Compare the premium, fees, obligations and timing together. We do not publish a fixed statutory price or timetable because the scope depends on your case.
Keep your decisions separate
The £99 service is for a voluntary approach and negotiation. It does not serve a statutory notice or instruct a statutory claim. Starting a formal process requires a separate scope and appropriate advice. Do not assume that the freedom to reject a voluntary deal applies in the same way after a statutory notice has been served.
Sources and further reading
LEASE: buying the freehold of a houseGOV.UK: buying the freeholdGeneral information for leasehold houses in England and Wales. Your lease, title and proposed terms determine your own position.