What helps negotiations stay controlled
Respond to counteroffers
Each new figure is tested against valuation evidence before you decide how to reply.
Know when to settle
We advise when the premium appears commercially sensible in the circumstances.
Keep the case moving
Consistent pressure and clear evidence help longer negotiations retain momentum.
Challenge the demand with sound valuation evidence
Once the landlord has named a premium, the issue becomes how to respond without losing sight of the real value of the claim. Lawrence & Wightman uses specialist valuation evidence to analyse the demand, test the assumptions behind it and advise on a reasoned response. That helps you avoid treating the opening figure as fixed and gives the negotiation a proper structure. In Birmingham and beyond, many leaseholders come to us at this stage because they need someone to separate pressure from evidence and explain where a realistic settlement range may sit.
Keep momentum through a difficult negotiation
We negotiate with freeholders, landlords and their surveyors or agents, reviewing each counteroffer against the valuation rather than reacting to it in isolation. Some cases settle quickly, while particularly difficult matters can take up to 18 months, so keeping the evidence clear and the case moving is important. We also advise on the point at which settlement appears commercially sensible. Once a premium is agreed, we pass the figure to your solicitor so the legal completion stage can continue.
Frequently asked questions
What if the landlord's figure looks far too high?
That is exactly where valuation-led negotiation matters. We review how the landlord's figure appears to have been reached, identify assumptions that may be overstated and advise on a reasoned counterposition. The aim is to move the discussion onto supportable ground, not to react to the demand at face value.
How long can lease extension negotiation take?
Some matters resolve within a relatively short period, but others take much longer, especially if the freeholder is difficult or the valuation gap is wide. We set expectations early and keep the evidence organised, because negotiations that run for many months still need a clear strategy and steady follow-up.
What happens once the premium has been agreed?
Once agreement is reached, we confirm the negotiated figure so your solicitor can deal with the legal completion stage. That keeps the valuation and legal work aligned and helps the matter move on without uncertainty about what has been settled between the parties.