We've put this list of land related FAQ's together to help answer some of your questions. If you can't find what you're looking for here please get in touch and we'll try to help and then add your question to the list.
Q: How can I find a plot of land for sale?
A: Our constantly growing database contains a huge number of listings to help you find the right plot of land for any purpose including; Agricultural Land, Conservation Land, Equestrian Land, Grazing/Pasture Land, Industrial Land, Investment Land, Mooring Land, Residential Development Land, Self Build Land, Small Holding Land, Woodland and more.
Q: Can anyone own land in the UK?
A: Yes. There are no restrictions on foreign ownership of land in the UK.
Q: What is the Land Registry?
A: The Land Registry is the government department that holds the records of all property in the United Kingdom.
Q: Do you have any information on planning permission?
A: Yes. You can find detailed information on planning permission here.
Q: Land is categorised into groups, for example Brownfield and Greenbelt, what is the difference?
A: Information on land categories can be found on the Land Categories page.
Q: Do I own the land?
A: Yes 100%, you own the freehold plot of land with vacant possession. Once your plot has been paid for in full you will receive all the documents that have been registered at the UK Land Registry in your name. As soon as you own your plot of land you can choose what happens to it within the law. You can use your plot of land for any lawful purpose.
Q: If we purchase land or property in the UK, can you guarantee a Visa?
A: Obtaining a Visa and buying land or property in the UK are 2 different items. Any person or Company can purchase land or property in the UK. If you own land or property in the UK, it does not guarantee you a Visa, please read further here about obtaining a Visa in the UK on the UK Border Agency site.
Q: What are the tax benefits to buying land?
A: 2011: There are different rules for different countries and where you reside. Currently in the UK for example, if you buy land, you may be able to attract some relief from income, capital gains, and inheritance tax. Alternatively you can invest in land via a SIPP, which allows your plot to potentially increase in value over the years with no capital gains tax. Please note that tax laws can change. You must seek independent financial advice; neither QB Land nor its representatives are qualified by the FSA (Financial Services Authority) to answer questions on these matters.
Q: If land is such a good opportunity, why isn't it more popular with financial advisors and private investors?
A: Green field land has not been available on a plot by plot basis until recently. Changes to the law have facilitated the process of sub-dividing large tracts of land allowing companies such as QB Land to offer smaller and affordable pieces relatively easily. In essence, a whole new market is being created and as time goes by this asset class will become the foundation for most successful portfolios.
Q: Why buy land without planning permission?
A: The aim of QB Land is to make as much profit as possible for our clients. Land without planning permission can be bought incredibly cheaply, representing the best value via the biggest margins in this industry.
Q: Will it get Planning Permission?
A: We cannot guarantee if, or when, planning approval will be granted. However, we concentrate on Greenfield land in prime locations, in areas given priority by the government for additional house-building.
Q: Size of plots?
A: They vary according to price and all conform to government specifications regarding size.
Q: Red Tape?
A: Current housing pressures are sweeping many of these away. Government is keen to ensure enough adequate housing at affordable prices for potential voters. Building new houses is one way of achieving this. Legislation recently enacted has streamlined the whole process making it speedier and flexible. Council planning reviews have been shortened to every 3 years in some, and 4 in others.
Q: Why are the local people and councils often upset by the proposed development?
A: The UK is currently experiencing a massive housing shortage and more and more land is needed to accommodate these homes. This can be a very political issue and many local people are fiercely protective of their much-loved surrounding green areas. Having said this, the fact still remains that there is a housing shortfall and QB Land sites are always in locations ear-marked for growth.
Q: What is the Local Plan, and how might this affect my plot?
A: Planning laws are continually changing to meet the demands of our housing needs. A recent change has been to make the planning system quicker and more flexible. Land will now be considered for allocation to residential development every three years instead of five. And in cases of a significant housing shortfall, it can be considered every 12 months.
Q: What are the title deeds?
A: These are legal documents detailing the specifics of the land and who is the owner.
Q: What is the difference between outline and detailed planning consent?
A: If outline-planning consent has been granted, this means you have permission to build upon the land. Detailed planning consent relates to the specific type of property you want to build, i.e. type of brick, windows, number of rooms etc.
Q: What is an Article 4 notice?
A: An Article 4 helps to preserve the look of the land prior to development, and prevents individuals from erecting fences etc. around individual plots without planning permission.
Q: What is the UDP? (The local authorities Unitary Development Plan)
A: The UDP's Purpose: To identify the need for housing and what kind of housing is required, i.e. social, private where and how much building should take place.
Q: Do I need a solicitor?
A: Unlike a bricks and mortar property purchase, a solicitor is not essential however; some people prefer to use a solicitor for their own peace of mind. Using a recommended solicitor who already knows the sites and concept is advisable as this can save you a lot of time and money. www.lawsociety.org.uk ensuring that your best interests are their only concern regulates all solicitors. The solicitors recommended to QB Land customers are a large, established and well-respected legal practice. For more information, please contact QB Land.
Q: Can I use my own solicitor?
A: Yes you can. QB Land are happy to deal with any solicitor of your choice, however you must keep in mind that a solicitor that has no knowledge of the concept or the sites on offer, may take considerably more time to complete. As a result, this can mean you incur unnecessary additional legal costs for yourself.
Q: Can I sell my plot?
A: Yes you can. You own the freehold title deeds to your land and may sell it at any time.
Q: What surveys and/or checks have been carried out on the land?
A. A full legal and environmental search is carried out on every site offered by QB Land. This ensures that each site fits all necessary criteria to be suitable for residential and commercial development.
Q: What is PPG3? (Planning Policy Guidance 3: housing)
A: Planning Policy Guidance (PPG) sets out the Government's policies on different aspects of planning. It provides guidance on a range of issues relating to the provision of housing. It replaces the 1992 version of PPG3. Recent and proposed changes to PPG3 reflect the Government's recognition that private house builders are central to its key objective to build more homes. And it also addresses the issues of planning for sustainable communities in rural areas.
Q: What is a Section 106 agreement?
A: A Section 106 agreement of the Town & Country Planning Act 1990, allows a local Planning Authority (LPA) to enter into a legally binging agreement (planning obligation) with a land developer over a related issue. The obligation is sometimes termed as a "Section 106 Agreement.
Q: What are the tax implications when buying land?
A: QB Land is not legally qualified to advise on taxation matters. If you have any questions or would like more information, we recommend that you speak to the tax office an appointed financial adviser.