Unsurprisingly, real estate transactions raise many tax issues from whatever direction you approach them. Not only do the normal taxes relating to income and or capital apply, but also VAT has one of its most complex manifestations in this field and SDLT (stamp duty and tax) is peculiar to this market.

The Stamp Duty Land Tax regime has imposed additional compliance obligations on the real estate sector that we can deal with efficiently. The regime has also created more: complex issues and opportunities to adopt more tax efficient approaches, which our tax team can explain and implement.

Our specialists can also advise on valuable capital allowances and the complex VAT issues in real estate transactions.

By working closely with our own or other property lawyers, our tax specialists have considerable experience of these issues and can advise on the impact of these taxes where early consultation can lead to tax savings.

We can advise on the most appropriate vehicle for a real estate investment, including joint ventures and special purpose vehicles plus we can advise on the tax aspects of property finance and finance leasing transactions.

The changes to the Construction Industry Scheme have been an issue for many clients in the real estate sector and we have produced a guide available for download in the online literature section.

We are also involved in the development of the new REIT (real estate investment trust) and possible planning gain supplement rules and can keep our clients abreast of these changes.