When Should You Get a Professional Property Valuation? A Practical Guide for 2026
Many property decisions depend on having an accurate, independent valuation but most owners aren’t sure when they should obtain one. Whether you own a flat, a mixed-use building, a commercial unit or an investment property, timing can make a major difference to outcomes, negotiation strength and financial planning.
At Olden Property, we provide RICS-compliant valuations across London and the South East for lease extensions, rent reviews, lending, tax and compulsory purchase. Here is a clear guide to the key moments when a professional valuation is not just helpful , it’s essential.
1. Before a Lease Extension (Especially Near 80 Years)
Leaseholders often underestimate how quickly value drops as a lease shortens. The 80-year threshold is critical, triggering marriage value and increasing the premium.
A lease extension valuation is essential if:
Your lease is 80–90 years and approaching the threshold
You plan to serve a Section 42 notice
You need to budget accurately
You want a defensible premium for negotiation
Early valuations almost always reduce long-term costs.
2. Ahead of a Rent Review or Lease Renewal
Rent reviews and lease renewals are driven by comparable evidence and detailed lease wording. Landlords and tenants both benefit from an early valuation to:
Establish the correct market rent
Identify relevant comparables
Understand assumptions and disregards
Strengthen negotiations
Avoid over- or under-valuing
Entering a rent review without evidence is one of the most common causes of disputes.
3. When Buying or Selling a Property
Whether it’s a flat, shop, office or investment property, market conditions change quickly. A valuation provides:
An independent check on price
Clarity on rental value and yield
Insight into risks that may not be obvious
A stronger negotiation position
Buyers avoid overpaying, and sellers prevent unnecessary price reductions.
4. For Tax Purposes — Probate, Inheritance Tax and CGT
HMRC requires valuations that reflect the property’s value at a specific date. A RICS Red Book valuation is essential for:
Probate
Inheritance Tax (IHT)
Capital Gains Tax (CGT)
Trust or partnership arrangements
Independent valuations help prevent HMRC challenges and ensure accurate reporting.
5. When Dealing With a Proposed Compulsory Purchase Order (CPO)
If your home, investment or business is affected by a proposed CPO, early valuation advice is critical.
A valuation helps you:
Understand what you are entitled to
Establish the starting point for a compensation claim
Prepare objections or representations
Protect your financial position from day one
With several major regeneration schemes across London and Kent, many owners are now seeking early advice.
6. When Refinancing or Securing a Loan
Lenders rely on independent valuations to assess risk. A valuation helps you:
Confirm your loan-to-value position
Support refinancing applications
Release equity safely
Avoid delays in approval
Accurate valuations reduce uncertainty and make the process far smoother.
7. When You Need Clarity for Future Planning
Many clients request valuations simply to understand:
Current value
Equity position
Investment performance
Rental potential
Options for improving the property
A valuation is often the simplest and most cost-effective way to make informed decisions.
Conclusion: A Professional Valuation Provides Clarity and Confidence
A valuation is not just a number, it is the foundation for many important property decisions. Whether you are extending a lease, preparing for a rent review, dealing with a proposed CPO or planning ahead, early professional advice ensures you act with confidence.
Olden Property provides clear, independent, RICS-compliant valuations across London, Kent, Sussex, Surrey and the wider South East. If you need guidance or would like to arrange a valuation, we would be pleased to assist.