The award was proudly sponsored by Davies & Co., and presented to the winners by the legendary Nigel Owens MBE, with support from Lynne Brawn and Carol Blower of Davies & Co.

Congratulations once again to all involved—an outstanding achievement and a great celebration of excellence in small farm attractions! 🎉

Changes to planning policy and business-rate thresholds will affect the viability of new ventures like farm parks, holiday lets, farm shops and equestrian enterprises.

1. Planning: Greater Flexibility but Higher Scrutiny for Tourism Uses

The Budget aligns with the Government’s broader aim to stimulate rural economic growth. Key points include:

• Continued support for rural enterprise, including more flexible planning rules and wider use of Permitted Development Rights for converting agricultural buildings.
• Potential for increased environmental and traffic scrutiny, where diversification involves visitor accommodation or high footfall like glamping.

Impact:
Lower planning barriers make small-scale projects easier to start, but tourism-based ventures could face more assessment requirements.

2. Business Rates: A Critical Cost for Diversified Farms

Agricultural buildings remain exempt, but once activities change into retail, hospitality or leisure they could become liable for business rates. The Budget confirms the continuous use of two RHL (Retail, Hospitality & Leisure) business-rate multipliers, depending on the property’s Rateable Value (RV):-

• Lower Multiplier – RV up to £51,000

Designed to support small enterprises such as farm shops, cafés, small holiday lets and start-up visitor services. This lower rate could help keep overheads manageable. Multiplier rate will be 38.2p.

• Standard Multiplier – RV £51,001 to £499,999

Applies to larger diversified ventures such as multi-unit holiday accommodation, larger retail outlets or visitor attractions. The higher multiplier significantly increases the annual rates bill. Multiplier rate will be 43.0p.

Impact:
The lower multiplier encourages small-scale, low-impact diversification, while the higher multiplier can make scaling up a lot more costly. Businesses close to the £51k threshold need to model rate implications cautiously.

3. Implications for Diversification Strategy

• Small projects benefit most, particularly those that stay within the lower multiplier band.
• Medium-sized expansions become less attractive, as rising rateable values push businesses into the higher rate bracket.
• Long-term financial planning is essential, especially where projects could trigger business-rate liability for the first time.

Summary

The Budget supports rural diversification but reinforces the importance of careful planning and financial forecasting. For many farms, the most viable path will be multiple small ventures rather than a single large tourism or retail development. Understanding business-rate thresholds early in the design stage will be key to sustainable growth.

For expert help and advice on planning and business rates contact:-

Barry Davies BSc (Agric), MRICS, FAAV, IRRV
Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors
📞 01536 524808
📧 info@daviesandco.co.uk
🌐 www.daviesandco.co.uk

There will be two lower business rates multipliers for RHL properties with rateable values (RVs) below £500,000.

• Small business RHL multiplier – RVs under £51,000.
• Standard RHL multiplier – RVs £51,000 to £499,999.

Multiplier rates for these bandings will be:-

• Small Business RHL multiplier: 38.2p
• Standard RHL multiplier: 43.0p

While shops are included, it is important to note that farm parks may not automatically fall within the RHL category. Each case will need to be considered carefully against the Government’s criteria.

Further Guidance
Government guidance can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/business-rates-multipliers-qualifying-retail-hospitality-or-leisure

Need Expert Advice?

If you’re unsure how these changes may affect your property or business rates liabilities, we’re here to help:-

Barry Davies BSc (Agric), MRICS, FAAV, IRRV
Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors
📞 01536 524808
📧 info@daviesandco.co.uk
🌐 www.daviesandco.co.uk

There will be two lower business rates multipliers for RHL properties with rateable values (RVs) below £500,000.

• Small business RHL multiplier – RVs under £51,000.
• Standard RHL multiplier – RVs £51,000 to £499,999.

Multiplier rates for these bandings will be confirmed in the budget and it is not guaranteed that farm parks will be included within the RHL sector.

Government guidance can be found here: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/business-rates-multipliers-qualifying-retail-hospitality-or-leisure

For expert help or advice:-

Barry Davies BSc (Agric), MRICS, FAAV, IRRV
Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors
📞 01536 524808
📧 info@daviesandco.co.uk
🌐 www.daviesandco.co.uk

The event is action-packed, relaxed and has some great networking opportunities for Farmers and Landowners wanting to diversify.

The conference only happens once a year and the organisers have put our heart and soul into making it as productive, positive and powerful as possible for you and your business.

Come and see us on Stand no 82.

We are Chartered Surveyors and Rural Consultants specialising in securing Planning Permission for leisure diversification projects, negotiating Rateable Values and appeals, valuation advice for securing funding and grant aid applications.

Davies & Co have extensive experience advising NFAN members on ‘farm to farm attraction’ or expansion of existing attraction businesses, with expert guidance on Planning and Business Rates Liability.

See us on Stand no 82 or to find out more or get in touch:-

Barry Davies BSc (Agric), MRICS, FAAV, IRRV
Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors
📞 01536 524808
📧 info@daviesandco.co.uk
🌐 www.daviesandco.co.uk

Steph Curtis-Raleigh

Upgrade Publishing

• Farming to Glamping.
• Planning Permission and Business Rates.
• Cutting Through the Red Tape – Top Tips.

Get in touch:-

Barry Davies BSc (Agric), MRICS, FAAV, IRRV
Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors
📞 01536 524808
📧 info@daviesandco.co.uk
🌐 www.daviesandco.co.uk

While a well-thought-out diversification can complement your existing enterprise, poorly planned schemes can divert time and money away from core farming operations.

The key is to plan ahead, evaluate every aspect of the project, and seek professional advice before making any commitments.

1. Planning Permission

Most diversification projects involving existing farm buildings will require full planning permission for a change of use.

Some developments may fall under Permitted Development Rights (PDR), allowing conversion of agricultural buildings to commercial/leisure uses without a full application.

Despite this, there are important restrictions:

Development must not begin until the local authority confirms if prior approval is required.

Even if change of use is allowed under PDR, alterations that affect the building’s external appearance are likely to require full planning permission.

2. Site Constraints

If your project does not qualify for PDR, consider:

• Can the site accommodate the proposed development?
• Are there planning constraints like Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Green Belt, or other protected designations?
• Will the project increase traffic? A traffic survey may be required to support your application.

Other Key Considerations

It may take several months to prepare the necessary documentation. Submitted  planning  applications typically take  6-8 weeks for a decision.

Additional surveys and reports may be needed, such as:

• Structural
• Protected species
• Ecological
• Contamination
• Flood risk
• Air quality and noise

Timing is critical: For example, bat surveys must be conducted between April and September.

Planning fees can be substantial – for example, around £385 per 75 sq. m for non-agricultural buildings.

Do bear in mind also a commercial/leisure use will attract a Rateable Value assessment, and  Business Rates charge.

Get Expert Advice

Farm diversification can unlock new income streams, but planning is complex. Get it right from the start.

For expert, tailored advice, contact:

Barry Davies BSc (Agric), MRICS, FAAV, IRRV
Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors
📞 01536 524808
📧 info@daviesandco.co.uk
🌐 www.daviesandco.co.uk

The seminar will be led by Barry Davies BSc (Agric), MRICS, Chartered Surveyor at Davies & Co., who specialises in strategic farm-to-rural development projects across the UK.

Key topics will include expert guidance on:

• Negotiations with planning authorities.
• Engaging with funding institutions.
• Liaising with the Valuation Office Agency regarding business rates. Visit us at Stand 308 – we look forward to welcoming you!

Want to find out about Planning or Business Rates for your new Glamping project then pop along and have a chat – you will find us on Stand number 308. Or if you prefer get in touch beforehand on 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk.

The Government have announced in their reform of the business rates that from 1^st April 2026 they will reduce the ‘multiplier’ applied to Retail, Hospitality and Leisure (RHL) properties – currently the standard multiplier is 55.5p in £1.  Government have not announced precisely what the reduced multiplier will be.

For 2025/2026 RHL properties receive the 40% relief on business rates paid, hence this should be shown on the bill received from your local council.  There is a cap of £110,000 for each business.

Revaluation 1^st April 2026

All properties will have their Rateable Value reassessed from 1^st April 2026.  Businesses should have received from the VOA their Form of Return to complete and return to assist them in the revaluation. 

If help is required in the completion of the Form or in the RHL Relief do please contact Barry Davies, 01536 524808, info@daviesandco.co.uk.

Exhibition times are 9am – 4pm on both days.

Want to find out about Planning for your Farm Business then pop along and have a chat, we are on Stand Number 34, or get in touch beforehand.  01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk.

With plenty of ‘no win no fee’ offers pestering us on a weekly basis we decided that we would request the help of a business we could trust. The knowledge and experience of Davies & Co was so apparent from the onset. They managed to explain the complicated workings in layman’s language and guided us through the whole process.

Davies & Co eventually reduced the ‘Rateable Value’ of Longdown Activity Farm from £80,000 to £52,000 per annum a reduction of 35% and ensured that the back payment which was due got paid directly into our bank.

I must admit it’s not every day that I find £38,000 dropped into my bank account!

Without any hesitation we would certainly recommend Davies & Co to anyone who is seeking advice on Business rates.

Bryan & Dawn Pass, Longdown Activity Farm, New Forest

Planning Permission has been granted with all the conditions discharged for 7 glamping pods,  portaloo toilet and shower unit, storage shed and associated works.

Site is located in the beautiful hamlet of Isombridge, between Shrewsbury and Telford and is close to the midland road network.

Are you interested or do you know someone you know who might be interested in this exciting joint venture/lease hold partnership opportunity?

Do please get in touch.

Who are we?

Chartered Surveyors and Rural Consultants specialising in securing Planning Permission for leisure diversification projects, negotiating Rateable Values and appeals, valuation advice for securing funding and grant aid applications.

We have extensive experience in advising landowners on ‘farm to farm attraction’, or expansion of an existing attraction business, with Planning and Business Rates Liability.

Contact us

Are you interested or do you know someone who might be interested in this exciting opportunity to design build and run a glamping pod site in rural Shropshire?

For an initial no obligation discussion do please get in touch.

NB. Image for illustration purposes only

Farmers will be able to convert their “unused farm buildings into new homes, farm shops and gyms” more easily thanks to new planning laws which came into effect on 21^st May 2024. Find out more here https://www.gov.uk/government/news/planning-red-tape-slashed-for-farmers

The government have said farmers “will be able to convert agricultural buildings and land into new lucrative business opportunities, such as outdoor sports facilities, larger farm shops and farm training centres, as well as housing, thanks to the changes to permitted development rights”.

Double the amount of floorspace can change from agricultural to ‘ flexible commercial use’ (Class R) taking it from 500 square metres to 1,000 square metres. 

An increase in the size of new buildings or extensions on farms greater than 5 hectares, from 1,000 square metres to 1,500 square metres can now be built.

And conversion of agricultural buildings into homes has increased from 5 to 10, without the need for planning permission.

These changes should encourage existing farm parks to expand by way of “change of use” to the existing agricultural buildings, thus adding value to their current business.

It’s important to note that prior approval must be sought from the local authority before any works can begin.

Do contact us if you need guidance.

Barry Davies BSc(Hons), MRICS,FAAV  IRRV

Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors

01536 524808

07850 555026

info@daviesandco.co.uk

www.daviesandco.co.uk                                                           

Business Rates – Revaluation 2026

Completion of VOA Form of Return (FOR)

Many members will have been receiving from the Valuation Office a form; either a VO6030 or VO6036, to complete and return within a deadline of 56 days, to assist in the VOA’s assessment of the Rateable Value with effect 1st April 2026.

The statutory basis for the Revaluation is that of the ‘physical circumstances’ on the farm attraction property as at 1st April 2026, relating those to economic circumstances (financial) as at 1st April 2024, which is the reason the government are requesting details of your business for this specific year.

• VO6030 – this form is primarily aimed at properties that are occupied under a commercial lease or tenancy arrangement. Hence in Part B there is fairly brief details requested in relation to the trading receipts for the last 3 financial years.

Information requested in Part D relates to a rent/lease/tenancy agreement. It should be noted that where the rent paid is not solely for the ‘farm attraction business’ but for the whole farm, then a best ‘guesstimate’ should be made as to what rent should be attributed to the farm attraction land and property occupied in accordance with the tenancy or lease. The Valuation Office Agency (VOA) has no legal entitlement to receive with this form copies of financial accounts, management statements or indeed leases or tenancies. Do not provide profit or loss information relating to the farm agricultural business, this is exempt.

• VO6036 – this form is primarily aimed at those properties that have no lease or tenancy agreement. Under Part B there is a significant amount of information requested on the financial position of the farm park business. The VOA have no legal entitlement to receive with the form any financial accounts, management statements or details of your business.

It should be noted that if the financial accounts incorporate ‘Income and Expenditure’ from the farm or any other associated activities such as contracting or commercial lettings these details should not be included in Part B of the form.

It is solely the farm attraction that is being assessed for the Rateable Value. Hence it is very important that within the financial affairs of the business there is a division between ‘in hand farming/contracting’ to that of the ‘farm attraction business’ (the latter information only being required in Part B of the form). In Part D there is a reference to a requirement to include details of rent passing on a Lease or Tenancy agreement.

• It should be noted that in respect of any rent or tenancy agreement that has been set up within the ‘family’ and as such ‘connected parties’ as opposed to ‘arms-length’ with an independent Landlord, this should still be declared in Part D but detail in relation to who is the Landlord does not have to be declared.

• The Rateable Value of the farm attraction property is that of the ‘Market Rent’ as at 1st April 2024 (Local Government Finance Act (LGFA) 1988 schedule 5). Where there is no Tenancy or Lease agreement in place then the equivalent valuation for Rateable Value purposes will be calculated on a full Receipts and Expenditure basis, e.g. the financial affairs of the business, but not on a shortened method, e.g. a percentage of turnover or gross receipts.

• Where the farm attraction operator has completed a previous form in 2021/2019 (VO6030 or VO6036) it is important to be consistent in answering the questions.

• Ensure that the description of the property on the front page is correct ‘Farm Park’ or ‘Farm Attraction’ and note that the address is correct. There may be planning conditions attached to the planning permission such as Seasonal Opening (if connected with a maize maze) or other restricted planning conditions, detail these as they may considerably reduce the Rateable Value and as such the rates to be paid.

• The rates paid is calculated on the ‘multiplier’ (51p in £1) which is assessed on a yearly basis by the government.

• Do ensure that residential properties are not included in the property description on the form because residential properties are subject to ‘Council Tax’ not ‘Business Rates’.

• It should be noted that farm buildings and agricultural land are exempt from Business Rates as long as they are being used solely for agricultural purposes.

• If a farm attraction business’ current Rateable Value is below the threshold, e.g. £12,000 or less, then it would qualify for Small Business Rates Relief (SBRR).

• In general, the smaller farm attractions (up to approx. 50k visitors a year) are valued on a basis of £’s per square metre (sqm). The buildings are measured and a price per sqm applied to the restaurant, entrance/exit, shop, playbarn, car park, etc.

Barry Davies BSc(Hons), MRICS, IRRV
Davies & Co., Chartered Surveyors
01536 524808 info@daviesandco.co.uk
www.daviesandco.co.uk

May 2024

The content of this helpsheet is for information purposes only. Davies & Co accepts no liability for or as the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided

HelpsheetforNFANFarmAttractionMembersVOAformsMay2024.pdf

After an initial consultation, he took the mantle and armed with a wealth of information started the complicated process of revaluation. He just kept on going, and after a lot of hard work came up trumps.

Barry is personable, helpful & very professional, and we are extremely pleased with outcome.

Barry’s “Terrier Manner” meant he did not give up resulting in a 49% reduction in the rateable value of our Farm Park.

I would thoroughly recommend him to any rural business who needs someone who will fight to the end.

With Barry's expert guidance and advice, we battled for two years overcoming many hurdles but, in the end, Barry succeeded and negotiated to lower this rateable value by 73%.

We can not thank Barry enough, the last two years have been very challenging by paying this incorrect rate and it has been a huge mental strain for us. Our business can now continue by paying a fair rate that is reasonable for our small business, thanks so Barry's expertise. 

Marita Ogilvie, Ogilvie Dogs, Bourne, Lincolnshire

Sponsored by Davies & Co. and awarded at the National Farm Attractions Awards evening in January 2024.

Photograph:- Farm Manager Stuart (centre) collecting the award from Lynn Brawn and Carol Blower of Davies & Co Chartered Surveyors, presented by Jules Hudson.

Barrys professional manner, exemplary approach and attention to detail ensured that his communication with the VOA office secured a massive reduction in the Rateable Value of 55%.

He is happy to give advice, very approachable, has lots of experience and will continue to be an asset to our business.

I would have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending Barry Davies of Davies & Co.

Joseph Manning, Old MacDonald’s Farm, Brentwood, Essex

Also - listen to Barry’s seminar on 14^th September at 11am. Topic: - Farming to Glamping – Planning Permission & Business Rates – Cutting through that Red Tape – Top Tips & What’s New.

Or if you prefer get in touch beforehand on 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk.

at Whittlebury Park, Towcester, Northamptonshire, NN12 8WP

For further information 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk

Barry took the time to really understand our business and then was able to apply his considerable knowledge to the issues facing us.  

He always took the time to explain each step of the very complex appeal processes in a very clear and concise manner, and although it is an ongoing process, we have already received some refunds due to his hard work. 

He really has been quite a find and I would not hesitate to recommend him to any business navigating their way through the rating appeal process.”

Steve Carthew – Crealy Theme Park & Resort, Exeter

David Mort, Cockfields Farm Park, Oldham

Bob Ottaway, Audley End Miniature Railway, Essex

We are exhibiting at The Glamping Show on 14^th to 16^th September at the NAEC, Stoneleigh, Warwickshire. Want to find out about Planning or Business Rates for your new Glamping project then pop along and have a chat – you will find us on Stand number 485.

Or if you prefer get in touch beforehand on 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk.

Landowners and Farmers often believe that, because they are “mobile” these containers don’t need planning permission. But alas they do. This is because you are changing the use of the land. And so, they need full planning permission.

You do not need permission if the shipping containers are being used for agricultural purposes on agricultural land for perhaps a workshop or storage. Or indeed if it’s for temporary use of less than 28 days. And if you already have permission for storage and are placing the containers in that area.

But if the shipping containers are rented out then you will require planning permission for change of use. Planning consent could be difficult to get in the Greenbelt, AONB’s or other landscape designated areas. Other areas planning is possibly achievable, depending on the site.

For further information on whether or not you need permission contact 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk.

“I would highly recommend Barry to any business worried about their Business Rates. He successfully negotiated and reduced ours by 53%. The service was diligent and professional. His communication was excellent and the savings made far outweighed the costs charged.” MARTIN BURTON – ZIPPO’S CIRCUS, LONGCOPSE FARM, BERKSHIRE.

Please find our slides here from our presentation on Farming to Glamping, Cutting through the Red Tape given at the Glamping Show in September 2022

Please find our slides here from our presentation at the Farm Retail Association Show on 2nd March 2022

Please find our slides here from our presentation about Farm to Leisure at The Farm Business Innovation Show on 2nd November 2022

Do you need to reduce your business rates or are you looking for planning permission?

If so please get in touch.

 01536 524808 

info@daviesandco.co.uk 

But if you didn’t manage to attend and say hello you can just give us a call or send an email.

And remember – if you are looking for help with Planning or if you think your Business Rates are too high then get in touch with us.

For more information please contact: -

Davies & Co

Chartered Surveyors & Rural Consultants

Kettering

NN16 0BU

www.daviesandco.co.uk

 01536 524808/ 07850 555026 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk 

The legal definition of Rateable Value is the Open Market Rental of your premises as at 1 April 2021

If you consider your Rateable Value is too high, or if you think it’s not been unfairly assessed, you have the right to appeal under the ‘Check, Challenge, Appeal’ system.

John McCutchan of Arlington Bluebell Walk & Farm Trails, East Sussex appointed Barry Davies of Davies & Co, a Chartered Rating Surveyor for advice when he considered his Rateable Value was too high.

“I approached Barry Davies for help and assistance, when we suddenly received a Council rates bill   on our business, backdated 3 years!  I found him extremely knowledgeable and supportive, reinforced by his request for the appropriate documents and information, which he used in the successful negotiations with the VOA, to significantly reduce our Rateable Value.

Our Rateable Value came down from £16,750 to £5,000 a 70% reduction, back to 1 April 2017.  His service was speedy and very effective; therefore, I have no hesitation in recommending him to other attractions or leisure businesses wanting a reduction in their Rateable Value”

For more information please contact: -

Davies & Co

Chartered Surveyors & Rural Consultants

Kettering

NN16 0BU

www.daviesandco.co.uk

 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk 

It’s really important to submit your information in 2021 to make sure your Rateable Value   assessment for 2023 is fair and not being overvalued.

During this re-valuation   period the Valuation Office (VO) adjusts the rateable value of business properties to reflect the various changes in the market.

Rural diversified businesses are currently being contacted by the VOA, requesting information, to assess the Rateable Value. Once contacted you are asked to complete the form manually, or to go on line and update the information.

The information you provide will be used to assess your 2023 Rateable Value and business rates.  It will be charged by the local council at 51 pence in the pound (the multiplier) hence RV at £20,000 rates paid £10,200.

Do you think the information the VOA have about your business is incorrect, do you think that your Rateable Value is too high?, perhaps you feel you have been unfairly assessed. Is the description of the property or internal areas incorrect, has the agricultural exemption been applied?

It may be helpful to have a rating audit prepared of your business, you can then consider whether or not to appeal, you have this right under the.. ‘Check, Challenge, Appeal’ system.

For more information please contact: -

Davies & Co

Chartered Surveyors & Rural Consultants

Kettering

NN16 0BU

www.daviesandco.co.uk

 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk 

Rosemary Brown of Bluebell Dairy, Brunswood Farm, nr Derby received a surprise visit from their VOA Inspector in August 2018. The result of an inspection left the family feeling very concerned about the potential outcome and the possibility of being incorrectly assessed. They decided professional advice and help was needed so Rosemary contacted Davies & Co. Her comments are as follows: -

“Having known Barry Davies of Davies and Co for many years and fully aware of his professional knowledge within this specific area, our choice of who to approach was clear.

After contacting Barry, we passed all correspondence from the VOA straight to him and it was dealt with professionally and efficiently. His knowledge and expertise meant we could move the situation forward quite rapidly.

Being tenant farmers, our situation is not straight forward, but he dealt with the queries including challenging the VOA on a possible “receipt basis” valuation. The positive outcome left us feeling extremely relieved and reassured.

His speedy approach and professional knowledge meant we achieved the desired outcome. Our Rateable Value remained at £4500, when it could have been increased to £17,500- £20,000.

Barry is extremely approachable, is a very good listener and took everything we said on board. I would have no hesitation whatsoever in recommending him to any other farm attraction or retail outlet wanting a reduction in their Rateable Value.”

For advice on reducing your Rateable Value contact: -

Davies & Co

Chartered Surveyors & Rural Consultants

Kettering

Northamptonshire

NN16 0BU

www.daviesandco.co.uk

 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk 

If you have a redundant farm workers cottage/house and you let it before the 15 January 1989 as part of that workers employment, even if no formal agreement was put in place and there is no or little rent, the cottage occupied by your redundant farm worker is protected under the Rent (Agriculture) Act 1976 and his service occupancy becomes a “statutory tenancy”.  If the property was let after this date, then it is likely to be classed as an Assured Agricultural Occupancy under the Hosing Act 1988.

Protection for the ex-farm worker

Under the Rent (Agriculture) Act 1976 the protection of farm workers is comparable to that of occupiers of rented homes.  Protection is provided in the form of the fair rent system enforced by the rent service, which limits the amount of rent that can be charged and it provides that tenants have the right to one succession.

If you let your property under the Housing Act 1988 then your ex-farm worker will be protected as an assured agricultural occupancy and provided, they qualify for protection will receive the same protection as under the Rent (Agriculture) Act 1976, simply meaning that a landlord cannot evict a tenant and cannot double the rent overnight.

Protection is also extended through the investor’s agents who will normally manage the properties for them and undertake regular inspections, liaise with the tenants and arrange for repairs and maintenance to be undertaken.

Why should you sell & is now the right time to sell?

As we are seeing increasing demand for these properties and as the property market remains strong with little slow down despite the recent increases in interest rates, we have experienced investors paying on average 70% - 75% of the Open Market Value for these properties dependent upon condition and location. However, given the current property market farmers wishing to sell could realise a sensible price for these properties. A farmer or estate looking to expand or re-invest may see the sale of such a property an effective way to release some capital tied up within the holding and could utilise this money to fund diversification and re-investment projects, with peace of mind that your ex-farm worker has tenancy protection, furthermore you no longer have to maintain or insure this property.

What’s the catch?

Simply there isn’t. Investors wish to retain these properties for their portfolios and we are seeing that Investors are keen to purchase these properties and willing to invest in all types of properties in all geographical areas of the country.  No fees charged to the seller, and with immediate funds available, with no disruption caused to your tenant and the peace of mind they are fully protected in their home. Even if you are considering selling your whole farm do not dismiss the value of the farm workers or estate keeper’s cottage. The market is seeing these properties coming under increasing demand, they could help realise a greater value for your holding as a whole or if selling in lots, and as the property market remains strong now might be a realistic time to sit back and take account of what assets you have and how these may now realise a sensible price, and whether now is a suitable time to realise their capital.

For further information please contact Davies & Co

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Request Support

What is my property worth - Ensure you get a fair deal

Typically protected tenancies are worth 65—70% of the open market value however this can alter dependent upon location and condition of the property together with the tenant profile.

The Process - 6 easy steps

1. Wish to sell
   2. External Inspection
   3. Offer made & Sale agreed
   4. Memorandum of sale
   5. Exchange
   6. Completion

Ensure you use a creditable agent and with creditable clients

Knowing who you are selling too and who is their agent is essential as professional firms will be accredited by industry recognised organisations for you piece of mind

Ensure that your tenant is well cared for and protected

Ensure that your purchaser looks after your tenant/s and if an agent is used, they are a professional
organisation

Advantages of selling

• Realise capital that you may never realise
  • Cash buyers who can complete quickly
  • Free of maintenance requirements, changing legislation and landlord responsibilities
  • No more Income Tax
  • No, internal inspections, marketing costs or surveys required
  • No Agency fees + Payment of legal fees

Disadvantages of selling

• Loss of rental income
  • Capital Gains Tax
  • Sold below market value

For further information please contact us.

Download this article

Barry Davies will be giving advice at Farm Business Innovation 2022 on "Change of Use Farm to Leisure Attraction – Planning Permission and Rates – Avoid the Pitfalls!"

To find out more visit the Farm Business Innovation website.

If you are thinking of diversifying, and want to know how to manage the process then this article is essential reading. Whether you are concerned about Business Rates, Planning Permission, or the potential environmental impact of your proposed development “Cutting through the Red Tape –Top Tips – Planning Permission & Business Rates” will be of great help.

For further information contact 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk.

If you are thinking of diversifying, and want to know how to manage the process then this article is essential reading. Whether you are concerned about Business Rates, Planning Permission, or the potential environmental impact of your proposed development “Cutting through the Red Tape –Top Tips – Planning Permission & Business Rates” will be of great help.

Download the pdf here.

For further information contact 01536 524808 or email info@daviesandco.co.uk.

2021Farming to Glamping-CuttingthroughtheRedTape.pdf