LEASEHOLD CHECKS FOR FIRST-TIME BUYERS IN KENT
Flats can be the smart first step on the ladder in Kent—but leasehold adds fees, rules and time-sensitive checks. This guide lists the must-ask questions so you don’t lose weeks (or money) later.
The leasehold basics (what you’re buying)
Lease term: years remaining; impact on mortgageability and resale.
Ground rent: amount, review pattern; any doubling or index-linked clauses.
Service charges: current level, frequency, what’s included.
Managing agent & freeholder: who runs the building and how responsive they are.
The 7 essential checks before you offer
Years remaining on the lease (and threshold lenders prefer).
Ground rent details (review schedule, caps).
Service charge history (last 3 years + forecasted spend).
Planned major works (roof, lifts, cladding, external repairs) and your share.
Building insurance (in place, claim history, excesses).
Restrictions (subletting, pets, flooring, alterations).
Arrears / disputes in the block (any chronic non-payers or litigation).
Documents to request early
LPE1 / management pack (or agent summary if early stage).
Last three years’ service charge statements + budgets.
Reserve fund balance and 5-year maintenance plan.
Fire risk / EWS (if applicable), asbestos, health & safety records.
House rules, lease summary, and any variations/deeds of covenant.
Costs and timing you should plan for
Management pack fees and response times.
Notice fees / deed of covenant fees post-purchase.
Survey + legal + search costs and how delays add to risk of fall-through.
Common pitfalls for first-time buyers
Focusing on sale price, not total annual cost (ground rent + service charges).
Ignoring major works that hit in year 1–2.
Not checking letting or pet clauses until after offer accepted.
Discovering short lease issues after mortgage application starts.
How our Concierge service helps
Mortgage-ready first (DIP): agents prioritise viewings when your finance is pre-checked.
Upfront questions: we ask for lease term, charges and major works before you fall in love with a flat.
Viewing momentum: block bookings around your schedule, structured notes, agent follow-up.
Coordination to completion (add-on): liaise with broker/solicitor, chase the management pack, and keep milestones moving.
Next steps
Prefer a guided route? Start your 4-Week Concierge Search and cut delays and surprises.
Ready to grow your portfolio and attract investors? Get your own personal Developer Growth Partner
