THE AGENTS

Stephen Taylor

Guy Simmonds

Managing Director

Despite recent worrying rises in interest rates, we at Guy Simmonds are still finding the licensed-property market exceptionally buoyant.

May has been a record sales month, with an unprecedented number of both freehold and leasehold completions taking place. I do think that vendors are now realising that they must be realistic in their price expectations in order to

ensure their business sales are successful. It is obviously important to use a company that has been established for many years, with an excellent reputation, which will provide highly-professional and realistic advice.

Apart from the buoyant market in respect of freeholds

and lease re-assignments, I have noticed the increased popularity and desirability of the private free-of-tie leasehold opportunities. These leases are extremely sought-after compared with some pub company leases, since they are offered completely free-of-tie and therefore attract maximum barrelage discounts.

Such leases can be created for freehold vendor clients who wish to divorce themselves from the business to retire or pursue a change of career. We are almost uniquely qualified in this respect - not only have we successfully specialised in these highly-sought-after leases for about 30 years, but I also own several. They provide me with a passive income and future pension, although I won't be retiring for 15 years. Using this first-hand experience, I can advise freeholders of the implications of these desirable leases in addition to the valuations and premium we should gain for them and the attractive monthly income they will derive. Of course the freeholder benefits by retaining the property for investment.

At Guy Simmonds we also have a unique source of purchasing clients, personally known to us, who have emerged from our own training course and are anxious to purchase a suitable freehold, tied leasehold or free-of-tie leasehold business.