In the chancellors recent budget, Gordan Brown abolished Stamp Duty relief, (4%) from commercial property in disadvantaged areas. This will now no doubt affect the purchase price of some of the properties that previously qualified for the tax exemption.

Peter Cunliffe auctioneer at Jones Lang Lasalle says: "The abolishment of stamp duty relief will not detract private investors desire to buy commercial property, nor vendors desire to sell. Stamp duty remains low, while the economy is in a good state. Furthermore no other form of investment offers medium to long-term returns like commercial property, consequently private investors continue to perceive commercial property as a safe investment haven."