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Government Proposal to Cap Ground Rents at £250: Implications for Landlords

Posted on: January 30th, 2026 by Ella Darnell

Overview of the Proposed Changes

This week the Labour Government announced plans to cap existing residential ground rents at £250 per year from 2028, ultimately reducing to a peppercorn after 40 years. The introduction was made in the draft Commonhold & Leasehold Reform Bill, now entering pre-legislative consideration.

It is widely considered that the market has been in the hands of landlords and investors for too long. The residential market has been threatened with major overhaul for 20+ years. Labour has made it one of their priorities to put leaseholders first.

Key Effects on Landlords

This proposed legislation will override any lease where the ground rent is higher than £250 and/or has escalating provisions (i.e., doubling or RPI).

The intentions behind the cap are to save leaseholders hundreds of pounds a year, keep money in their pockets and tackle the cost-of-living crisis.

The effect on landlords could potentially be hundreds of thousands of pounds. Unlike with the statutory lease extension process set out under the Leasehold Reform, Housing and Urban Development Act 1993, landlords will not be compensated for the loss of their ground rent income.

Annual portfolio income streams will significantly decrease. Assets, whether a small investment portfolio for somebody’s retirement or a large-scale ground rent investor’s portfolio, will likely see a decline in value. 

On the other hand, some may find value in the certainty provided by 40 years of £250 per annum compared to an index-linked increase.

We have already seen institutional landlords challenge the abolition of marriage value in the Leasehold and Freehold Reform Act 2024 under A1P1 (the right to peaceful enjoyment of possessions). We could possibly see the same happen here.

The Draft Commonhold & Leasehold Reform Bill –What Else?

This legislation, once enacted, will take huge strides toward ending leasehold tenures, which many consider to be an archaic and unfair form of homeownership. The bill sets out further historic changes:

  • a ban on new leasehold flats;
  • will move to commonhold and make commonhold the default tenure;
  • ending forfeiture (or the threat thereof) for breach of lease and/or non-payment of service charge and/or ground rent; and
  • repeal of estate rent charges;

What Next?

We continue to be in a state of  ‘watch this space’ but it’s clear the landscape is changing. Lawrence Stephens’ specialist Leasehold Enfranchisement Team will continue to monitor the progress of the Draft Commonhold & Leasehold Reform Bill.

For any specific or tailored advice, please do get in touch with the Leasehold Enfranchisement Team, Director and Head of Leasehold Enfranchisement Claire Allan and Associate Cerys Eyre.

Lawrence Stephens completes over £33 million worth of transactions in pre-budget sprint

Posted on: November 28th, 2025 by Alanah Lenten

November was an exceptional month for Lawrence Stephens, culminating in an intense surge of activity ahead of the Chancellor’s budget announcement. Pre-budget market speculation prompted many clients to accelerate their transactions to avoid potential negative impacts. This created significant pressure on our teams to complete deals within very tight timeframes.

In the days leading up to Rachel Reeves’ announcement, our teams successfully completed transactions worth over £33 million. Notably, our Corporate and Commercial team alone closed seven transactions the day before the budget, including five acquisitions, one sale, and a share restructure, totalling in excess of £15 million. Meanwhile, the Commercial Real Estate team responded to concerns about possible capital gains tax changes by completing £16.5 million worth of deals, including the sale of two industrial investment properties and the purchase of a mixed-use building.

Jeff Rubenstein, Head of Corporate and Commercial, commented:
“I am incredibly proud of how our team rose to the challenge. We have built a department designed to thrive under pressure, and this achievement shows the strength, resilience, and expertise we bring to every transaction.”

Stephen Messias, Director in Commercial Real Estate and a Lawrence Stephens founding partner, added:
“The scale and complexity of the work completed in such a short timeframe is a testament to the capability of our team. Delivering a number of challenging transactions under these circumstances required precision, collaboration, and unwavering commitment to client objectives.”

These achievements were made possible through exceptional collaboration with all stakeholders and a relentless focus on meeting client requirements under challenging circumstances. November’s success reflects not only the strength of our expertise but also our ability to deliver outstanding results when it matters most.

Upward-Only Rent Reviews Banned: What Business Owners Need to Know

Posted on: November 26th, 2025 by Alanah Lenten

The UK Government is shaking up commercial leasing. As part of the English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, Upward-Only Rent Review (UORR) clauses will be banned in new commercial leases, a move designed to support small businesses and revitalise high streets.

If you’re a business owner negotiating a lease, here’s what you need to know.

What’s Changing?

From the moment this legislation takes effect, any clause in a new or renewal lease that prevents rent from decreasing will be unenforceable. This applies whether or not the lease is contracted out of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954.

Existing leases won’t be affected, but going forward, landlords won’t be able to lock tenants into rent levels that only go up where, at the start of the lease, that level of rent is not known and cannot be determined.

Why It Matters to You

If you’re running a business from leased premises, this is a significant shift. UORRs have long been a thorn in the side of tenants, especially independents and SMEs, who’ve found themselves stuck paying above-market rents during downturns.

This reform transfers risk from tenant to landlord, meaning landlords are likely to follow the approach outlined below. You may however have more flexibility to negotiate rent based on market conditions when agreeing a new or renewal lease.

What Landlords Might Do Next

Landlords won’t take this lying down. Expect to see:

  • More aggressive initial rent negotiations to offset future uncertainty.
  • Shorter lease terms, often contracted out of the 1954 Act, which could mean more frequent relocations or renegotiations for tenants.
  • Pre-agreed stepped rents, where rent increases are fixed from the outset, as these won’t be caught by the ban.
  • Index-linked reviews replacing upwards only open market reviews, offering predictability but potentially less room for negotiation.

Also, don’t be surprised if tenant-friendly perks like break clauses or rent-free periods become harder to secure.

What You Should Do

If you’re entering into a new lease or renewing an existing one:

  • Review the rent review clause carefully, make sure it allows for downward adjustments.
  • Consider stepped or indexed rent structures if they offer better predictability.
  • Negotiate hard at the outset, landlords may front-load rent to hedge against future drops.
  • Get advice, a good commercial property solicitor can help you navigate the new landscape.

Final Thought

This reform is a win for business owners, but it’s not without trade-offs. As the market adjusts, lease negotiations may become more complex. The key is to stay informed, negotiate smart, and structure leases that support your business’s long-term viability.

If you’d like to talk through how this change might affect your next lease negotiation, our Commercial Real Estate team is here to help.

Read the rest of The Fineprint edition 2 here. 

Lawrence Stephens Advises Fashion Retailer GARAGE on Their First UK and Flagship Store on Oxford Street, London

Posted on: November 11th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Lawrence Stephens has advised fashion retailer GARAGE on their first UK and flagship store on the world-renowned Oxford Street, London.

Founded in 1975, GARAGE is a Canadian fashion retailer with a strong presence across Canada and the United States, operating over 230 worldwide store locations. The brand is known for its youthful, trend-driven collections that cater primarily to younger women.

GARAGE’s expansion into the UK marks a significant milestone in the brand’s international growth strategy. The Oxford Street store is not only GARAGE’s first and flagship store location in Europe, but also a strategic move that places the brand at the heart of London’s retail scene. Oxford Street is one of Europe’s premier shopping destinations and London’s busiest street, thus the flagship location will allow the brand to quickly build brand visibility and connect with a diverse, high-footfall audience.

The deal is indicative of renewed confidence in brick-and-mortar retail, particularly in prime shopping destinations. It may serve as a signal for other North American fashion retailers to test the UK market, suggesting the potential of a wider trend of cross-Atlantic retail expansion.

The Oxford Street letting was led by Director and Head of Retail Nickhil Mandora and supported by Sophie Levitt. This adds to Lawrence Stephens’ growing portfolio of high-profile retail clients, which includes brands such as Carolina Herrera, Arc’teryx and Salomon. We are delighted to support GARAGE in this new chapter and look forward to seeing the brand thrive in the UK.

Nickhil Mandora added:

“We are delighted to have acted for GARAGE on their introduction to the UK market. The female fashion market in the UK is particularly strong and is no doubt strengthened by the entry of such a well-established North American brand, who already have a cult following here. Oxford Street, London, is the perfect home for GARAGE and we look forward to strengthening our partnership with them on their expansion within the UK.”

You can read more about the Retail team and their services here.

Lawrence Stephens Advises Maidenhead Aquatics on Acquisition of New Nottingham Store

Posted on: October 15th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Lawrence Stephens has advised fishkeeping and aquatics supplier Maidenhead Aquatics on the acquisition of their new store at 66 Castle Boulevard, Nottingham. This strategic move marks a consolidation of the company’s presence in the city and reinforces its position as an industry leader. 

Founded in 1984, Maidenhead Aquatics has evolved into the UK’s premier destination for fishkeeping and aquatic supplies. With over 130 stores nationwide and a well-established online platform, the company is continuing to expand its footprint. With the acquisition of the new store in Nottingham, Maidenhead Aquatics is further strengthening its presence in the region and displaying their commitment to growth in the aquatics sector. 

Supervising Partner in the Commercial Real Estate team, Matt Hind added:

“We are delighted to have acted for Maidenhead Aquatics on this transaction.  From start to finish my colleague Mo has been instrumental in driving this deal for Maidenhead Aquatics. He has done a terrific job at delivering a successful result for the client and supporting them in their expansion.”

Solicitor Mohammad Hammoud commented:

“Maidenhead Aquatics now have a large new location where they can continue their excellent work and growth in the historic city of Nottingham. Their growth is a testament to their commitment to being the best in the aquatics business and I look forward to seeing them thrive in their new store.”

Sam Kent, a Partner at Maidenhead Aquatics commented:

“Working with Mohammad Hammoud at Lawrence Stephens to get this acquisition completed has been so efficient. Complex issues were dealt with, explained fully and communication was outstanding throughout. I wouldn’t hesitate to use Mo in the future.”

This deal was handled by Mohammad Hammoud and assisted by James Parker. To read more about the Commercial Real Estate team and their services, please click here.

Lawrence Stephens acts for premium retailer MAKSU in securing lease of new flagship store on King’s Road, London

Posted on: August 28th, 2025 by zhewison

Lawrence Stephens has advised high-end retailer MAKSU on the lease of their new flagship store at 96 King’s Road, London, marking the brand’s second UK location and a significant step in its international expansion.

Founded in 2019, MAKSU is a Spanish-Turkish luxury womenswear brand known for its bold prints, timeless craftsmanship and Mediterranean-inspired elegance. The opening of this new store follows the successful launch of their first UK store in Mayfair in 2024, and it reflects the brand’s growing global presence and commitment to establishing a strong presence in London’s fashion landscape.

With MAKSU’s new flagship store location on the iconic King’s Road, they are positioned at the heart of one of London’s most prestigious and iconic retail destinations. Although ongoing economic challenges and concerns surrounding the future of the UK high street, MAKSU’s expansion into this prime location highlights the resilience of the luxury retail sector and affirms London’s status as a thriving hub for high-end fashion.

This deal was led by Head of Retail and Director Nickhil Mandora, with support from Solicitor Mohammad Hammoud. The deal is a further example of Lawrence Stephens’ position as a leader in the retail sector, having also recently advised major premium retail brands including Arc’teryx and Salomon.

Nickhil Mandora commented: “MAKSU have found a stunning new home on the King’s Road in London and we are delighted to have assisted them on the latest stage of their European growth. Cadogan’s focus on top-tier brands in this area is a strong endorsement of London’s position right at the top of the fashion market.”

For more information on the Retail team and their services, click here.

Lawrence Stephens Secures Prime Chelsea Residential Lease for Sandersons London

Posted on: August 14th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

Lawrence Stephens is delighted to have acted for Sandersons London in securing a new lease of a residential building on Draycott Place, Chelsea.

With support from our real estate team, Sandersons have taken on a 10-year lease of the entire building, comprising of 10 units to be refurbished into high-class apartments, in a prime residential location in Chelsea. The lease was completed swiftly within just two weeks of instruction, ensuring a timely and smooth transaction process for Sandersons.

This transaction marks a significant milestone for Sandersons, as the Chelsea letting is the first step in their ambitious plans for building a portfolio of serviced apartment offerings. Lawrence Stephens looks forward to supporting them and continuing a strong relationship as a trusted legal adviser as they expand their property portfolio.

 Matthew Manowski, CEO of Sandersons London added:

“This Chelsea building is more than just our newest lease – it’s the cornerstone of a bold new chapter for Sandersons London. In taking on this prime Draycott Place address, we’re not only expanding into one of the city’s most desirable postcodes, but setting the stage for a curated collection of serviced apartments that redefine what high-class city living can be. Lawrence Stephens have been exceptional partners in making this happen in record time, and we can’t wait to bring our vision for these homes to life!”

You can read more about our real estate team and their services here.

US buyers and the UK’s prime property market – how to avoid tax pitfalls

Posted on: August 12th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

As growing numbers of American investors target the UK’s prime real estate, Directors Alexa Kordowicz and Leigh Sayliss explore what’s fuelling this transatlantic property boom and discuss the key tax considerations US buyers must navigate to protect their investments and ensure long-term financial efficiency.

Alexa and Leigh’s article was published in IFA Magazine, 11 August 2025, and FT Adviser, 18 August 2025.

With more Americans than ever making the move to the UK and buying prime property, advisers need to be aware of the tax pitfalls their clients could face, and how to help them avoid costly mistakes.

US migration to the UK reaches record levels

The Americans are coming. In recent years, a growing number of Americans have been crossing the Atlantic to make the United Kingdom their home. While celebrity immigrants such as Ellen DeGeneres have made the headlines, the UK is now attracting thousands of Americans every year.

Many are here to stay. The Home Office says that over 6,600 Americans applied for UK citizenship in the year ending March 2025 – up 30% on the previous year. The first quarter of 2025 alone saw 1,931 applications, the highest quarterly figure in two decades.

Prime property hotspots are attracting wealthy US buyers

There has been a notable surge in well-heeled American buyers seeking properties in London, particularly in prime central London areas such as Mayfair, Marylebone, Chelsea and Belgravia. Americans are now reported to be the main non-British buyers of prime London real estate. Outside of London, desirable rural areas such as the Cotswolds are in vogue.

Lifestyle, safety and cultural similarities are key draws

This trend appears to be driven by a mix of political disillusionment, lifestyle aspirations and the straightforward, practical advantages of life in the UK, from safer streets to a lower cost of living, cheaper private schools and free healthcare. Another key attraction is that, as a culturally similar English-speaking nation, adjusting to life to the UK tends to be relatively easy for Americans.

Better work-life balance is a major attraction

The UK is an attractive destination for those Americans seeking a better quality of life. The promise of a better work-life balance also appears to be a significant draw. In the UK, workers are entitled to more annual leave, paid maternity leave of up to 39 weeks and lower working hours, for instance. From wealthy celebrities to everyday professionals, the UK’s allure is now reshaping migration patterns, which historically tended to be in the other direction.

Political stability and safer education are influencing moves

In 2025, MAK25 London Limited analysed several key drivers prompting Americans to relocate to London, and found perceived political instability in the US to be a significant factor. The UK’s safer educational environment was found to be a notable factor, which perhaps few Britons consider. The UK has had no school shootings since 1996, compared to 39 in the US in 2024 alone, and six in 2025. This is an understandable anxiety for American parents. Lower crime, along with free maternity care and generous maternity leave certainly makes the UK an attractive destination for young American families. Personal factors, such as family ties or job opportunities, also play a role according to MAK25, which also emphasises the importance of obtaining bespoke visa advice.

Currency strength and property market trends are boosting appeal

The current strength of the US dollar against the pound is increasingly making property purchases attractive for Americans, as is the softening UK property market. Post pandemic lifestyle changes and more flexible working arrangements also mean that it’s possible for Americans to consider a second home abroad, even while continuing to work in the US. London and the UK still have global appeal and cultural cachet, and the UK’s reputation is that of a safe haven for international buyers to invest their wealth.

Engaging advisers early is vital for avoiding tax traps

It is vital for Americans considering a move to the UK to engage US and UK tax qualified legal advisors at the outset – ideally prior to making an offer on any property. It’s essential to consider the possible ownership structures carefully, and to understand all the tax implications. Although thorny tax issues can arise, especially regarding inheritance tax, there are ways to mitigate these if they are considered before buying a property.

Understanding the key UK tax implications

Advisers of Americans moving to the UK will need to understand how the UK’s tax regime may impact them and their families, particularly if they are owners of second homes. Stamp Duty Land Tax (SDLT) surcharges for people buying a second home, and for non-UK residents, may well apply. This means that some canny buyers are looking to invest in areas in the UK with strong growth potential, to help offset the higher initial purchase costs.

Properties for personal use are generally bought in personal names or through trust arrangements, as there are further SDLT implications and the Annual Tax on Enveloped Dwellings (ATED) if the client decides to purchase through a company – unless the property is being bought solely for investment and the owner does not intend to use it personally.

Capital Gains Tax (CGT) rates in the UK may surprise Americans, and this is payable on the gain made upon the eventual property sales. It may be payable in the US and UK, but tax treaties avoid double taxation.

Potential inheritance tax at 40% on UK assets is another issue to be carefully considered. Although this should be offset against taxes paid in US, the UK threshold for paying inheritance tax is significantly lower than that for US Estate Duty. It is also worth remembering that there is no inheritance tax on transfers between spouses or civil partners.

Preparing for a smooth property purchase

American clients going ahead with a purchase should ensure that they have all the necessary documentation in order well in advance to ensure a smooth purchase. This may include proof and source of funds, a mortgage offer in principle, and insurance there will be necessary financing and sufficient tax and financial planning to ensure the purchase will be viable. Their US and UK advisors may need to collaborate closely to ensure the best strategy.

A growing transatlantic migration trend

As the political and social divides deepen in the US, the UK’s blend of cultural heritage, personal safety, and its easy access to continental Europe continues to attract Americans. Though US citizens will have to clear a variety of legal hurdles before making the move, this transatlantic migration shows no signs of slowing down just yet.

If you’re looking to invest in UK real estate, you can get in touch with Alexa here.

Chambers HNW 2025: Lawrence Stephens Residential Real Estate Team Recognized, Goli-Michelle Banan Ranked Band 3

Posted on: July 24th, 2025 by Alanah Lenten

We are delighted to announce that Goli-Michelle Banan, Head of Residential Real Estate at Lawrence Stephens, has been promoted from Band 4 to Band 3 in the latest Chambers High Net Worth 2025 guide. Her individual rise is matched by an exciting development for the wider Residential Real Estate team, which has secured its first-ever ranking, entering directly at Band 4 in the Real Estate: High Value Residential category.

This recognition places us firmly in competition with some of the capital’s larger and most established firms, including Howard Kennedy and Edwin Coe, underscoring the strength, calibre and growing market presence of our Residential Real Estate team.

With more than a decade’s experience in the prime and core London residential market, Goli-Michelle is a trusted adviser to HNW and UHNW individuals, developers, investors, and trust administrators across the UK and internationally. Known for her commercial insight and unrelenting attention to detail, she is also recognised in the Spear’s 500 as one of the UK’s top recommended property lawyers.

This year’s Chambers HNW guide includes glowing endorsements from clients and peers, who describe her as:

  • “Exceptionally efficient and professional. She has remarkable attention to detail and a thorough approach.”
  • “Incredibly helpful and very detailed… a great solicitor that I’ve had the pleasure of working with.”
  • “Positive, thorough and professional.”

Our Residential Real Estate practice advises on a wide range of complex and high-value transactions, including property sales and acquisitions, leasehold enfranchisement, development site purchases, refinancing, and Islamic finance. Clients range from private investors and family offices to corporates and developers, all of whom value our commercial, solution-driven approach and high-quality service.

Our team’s first-time ranking also reflects the exceptional feedback received this year:

  • “Lawrence Stephens is committed to its clients and provides excellent legal advice, offering solutions and updating all parties involved in an extremely timely manner.
  • “The team is easy to work with, personable, client-centric, pragmatic and collaborative.”

We’re proud that Chambers HNW 2025 has acknowledged the expertise that defines our real estate offering. Congratulations to Goli-Michelle and the entire Residential Real Estate team on this well-earned recognition, a major step forward in our continued growth within the HNW space.

Upward-Only Rent Reviews Banned: What UK Leaseholders Need to Know

Posted on: July 17th, 2025 by Ella Darnell

As part of the newly introduced English Devolution and Community Empowerment Bill, the UK Government has unveiled plans to outlaw Upward-Only Rent Reviews (UORRs) clauses in commercial leases — a move that could reshape the future of landlord-tenant dynamics.

The ban will apply to new agreements where, on the date the lease is entered into, the new rent following a rent review is not known and cannot be determined. It will not impact those leases already in place however, if implemented, any clause in a new or renewal commercial lease, whether contracted out of the 1954 Act or not, requiring the rent not to decrease will be unenforceable.

The proposal, aimed at revitalising high streets and supporting small businesses, has already been met with mixed reception across the property sector and The British Property Federation has criticised the lack of industry consultation.

What Are Upward-Only Rent Reviews?

UORRs are a common feature in commercial leases in England and Wales. UORRs allow rent to increase or remain static at review dates – typically every five years – but never decrease, even if market rents fall. This industry accepted approach to commercial leasing has long been favoured by landlords for providing income certainty and supporting property valuations.

Tenant Perspective: A Welcome Relief

For tenants, particularly small and independent businesses, the proposed ban is likely to be regarded as a positive development. UORRs have incurred criticism for binding tenants to unsustainable rent levels, especially in volatile markets. However, the outlaw of UORRs will effectively transfer the risk from tenant to landlord.

As such, a decision will need to be made by landlords as to whether to adopt a fixed rent or to permit rent variation through a rent review clause that accommodates both rises and reductions in rent throughout the term of the lease.

Landlord Perspective: A New Risk Landscape

Landlords, however, will almost certainly have concerns about the reform. Whilst rental income from commercial leases is currently considered a stable and predictable revenue stream, the prohibition of UORRs will introduce greater volatility in cashflow. Furthermore, industry stakeholders will argue that the outlaw of UORRs will undermine the perceived security of rental income and place prospective commercial property developers at a disadvantage when seeking finance.

Landlords may therefore choose to obviate the balance between risk and reward by abandoning open market review clauses and opting for the stability provided by index linked reviews.

What Happens Next?

The proposed ban on upward-only rent reviews marks a significant shift in UK commercial leasing. Whilst it aims to give tenants greater flexibility and affordability, landlords face a more complex and potentially less predictable income landscape.

In order to counteract this, it is possible that landlords will take a more aggressive stance at the outset of negotiations to mitigate the risk of stagnant or falling rents. Similarly, the inclusion of tenant-friendly terms, such as break clauses and rent-free periods, may become less prevalent as landlords reassess their leasing strategies.

Alternatively, landlords may opt for shorter leases which are to be contracted out of the Landlord and Tenant Act 1954. The potential drawback of this approach is that the cost of reletting the property will likely be passed to the tenant.

We may also see more pre-agreed stepped rents being negotiated (such increases would not be caught by the ban as the rent would be known at the outset) and this would give both tenants and landlords certainty at the start of a lease as to how much rent will be payable at any given time during the lease term.

Ultimately, the success of this legislative change will depend on how effectively the market adapts to a model that seeks to balance commercial flexibility with financial viability. As the Bill progresses through Parliament, stakeholders on both sides will need to stay alert to legislative developments and prepare for a new era in lease negotiation.

For more information on our Commercial Real Estate team, click here.

Authors

Nickhil Mandora

Louisa Hartley

Sophia Dixon

Lawrence Stephens advises Salomon on store at Battersea Power Station

Posted on: June 3rd, 2025 by zhewison

Nickhil Mandora, Director at Lawrence Stephens, has advised Salomon on their latest UK store at Battersea Power Station. This is the third UK store Salomon has opened in the past year, with Nickhil advising on all lettings.

Founded in 1947 in the French Alps, Salomon is an outdoor brand creating high-performance gear for running, hiking, skiing, and adventure. The Battersea Power Station store will be focused on footwear, offering a collection of sport-style, running, and hiking shoes.

This letting solidifies Battersea Power Station’s status as an iconic and desirable shopping destination, home to lifestyle brands favoured by consumers.

Nickhil Mandora: “We are delighted to assist Salomon on their latest UK retail space in the iconic Battersea Power Station, marking a hat trick of stores in the capital for the brand. Salomon have been consistently innovating not only the products they offer but the services provided in-store and we are excited to continue our partnership with them”.

For more information on our services and expertise in the commercial real estate sector, please click here.

Lawrence Stephens Expands Residential Real Estate practice with Senior Hire

Posted on: May 12th, 2025 by Natasha Cox

Lawrence Stephens is delighted to announce the appointment of Alexa Kordowicz as a Director in the firm’s growing Residential Real Estate team.

Alexa joins from Child & Child, where she developed a leading reputation for advising on high-value residential property transactions. Alexa has built a wide-ranging practice acting for individuals, companies and both UK and international private banks. She brings to the firm a wealth of experience in managing complex and high-net-worth property matters, with a particular focus on delivering a seamless client experience through strong relationships and a commercially minded approach.

Alexa looks forward to working closely with teams such as Private Wealth to coordinate multi-faceted transactions involving extensive property portfolios.

Speaking on her appointment, Alexa commented: “I’m thrilled to be joining the highly regarded team at Lawrence Stephens. The firm’s client-first ethos and collaborative culture are an excellent fit for my approach to legal practice. I look forward to continuing to support clients in the UK and internationally on their residential property matters, and to growing the practice together with the wider team.”

Goli-Michelle Banan, Head of Residential Real Estate, added: “Alexa is an exceptional addition to our team. Her experience in high-value residential transactions, coupled with her commitment to client service, aligns perfectly with our focus on delivering a tailored and positive experience. We’re excited to welcome her to Lawrence Stephens as we continue to expand the scope and strength of our Residential Real Estate offering.”

Details of our Residential Real Estate services can be found here