UK Real Estate Structuring
Your experts
Real Estate is an increasingly popular asset class for overseas investors, and many of our clients have substantial commercial and residential portfolios.
The structuring of real estate investments and the funds themselves can be complex. The most appropriate vehicle overall depends on several factors, for example whether residential or commercial real estate is to be acquired, the intended use and tax efficiency, both in the UK and elsewhere.
We bring together our expertise in tax, succession planning, trusts, funds, company formation, real estate expertise and more to provide clear and expert guidance to real estate investors from all over the world.
How we help
- Taxation – It is important to take professional advice from the outset, as UK real estate transactions are potentially exposed to a variety of UK taxes, including Stamp Duty Land Tax, Value Added Tax, Corporation Tax, Income Tax, Inheritance Tax and the Annul Tax on Enveloped Dwellings. Our expert lawyers help investors and developers to choose the most tax-efficient structure. In many cases certain taxes can be mitigated or entirely eliminated through careful planning and structuring from the beginning so it is important to take advice at an early stage
- Succession Planning – We advise clients on integrating their real estate portfolio into their overall succession planning strategy in the UK and globally to facilitate the long term preservation of wealth for the benefit of future generations
- Real Estate Acquisition – We have market leading teams in the acquisition of commercial real estate across a wide range of sectors from offices and mixed use developments to hotel and warehouses
Our residential real estate team advise on the purchase of the full range of residential property from prime London and country houses to residential investment portfolios around the UK. We advise on purchases made by individuals, through corporate structures, trusts and funds.
At Boodle Hatfield our private client, tax, real estate and corporate teams work seamlessly together to ensure our clients’ investment into real estate is tax efficient and integrated into the most appropriate worldwide structure.
Recommended reading
How could the government’s new earned settlement model reshape the path to indefinite leave to remain? In People Management, Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob explains how proposals to extend ILR timelines and introduce tougher income, language and character rules could significantly affect skilled workers. First consulted on last November (with the consultation closing on 12 February 2026), these proposals are not yet final, and Zoe highlights why HR teams should start preparing now ahead of potential changes from autumn 2026.
Read more 04 Mar 2026 Family businesses: is your approach to managing talent and culture at risk?The Employment Rights Act 2025 introduces significant updates to employment rules, prompting family businesses to review how they manage people and processes. With new requirements around unfair dismissal and tribunal claims, the shift towards more structured and documented practices offers an opportunity to strengthen governance and support long‑term resilience. Partner, Clare Stirzaker and Senior Associate, Joanne Leach outline the key changes and practical steps for family‑owned firms to prepare.
Read more 19 Feb 2026 I am a dual national British citizen. What should I do about the rule changes coming into force on 25 February 2026?Immigration Partner, Zoe Jacob provides clear guidance for dual British citizens on the stricter UK entry requirements coming into force on 25 February 2026. She highlights what documents will be needed, how to avoid travel disruption and what to do if urgent travel is required.
Read more 12 Feb 2026 The new £2.5m BPR allowance: Opportunities and shareholder risksCould restructuring your options for shareholdings help you unlock the new £2.5m BPR allowance, or create new risks? In Business & Accountancy Daily, Private Wealth Senior Associate, James Woods‑Davison explains that while the increased allowance offers inheritance tax opportunities, having multiple minority shareholdings can expose businesses to governance pressures and unfair‑prejudice claims. Strong governance and clear decision‑making are essential to protect long‑term value.
Read more