Can I buy the freehold of a house before 2 years?

diydisasterzone

I recently bought house (this year), leasehold and when the freeholder contacted me for this year's ground rent I've also been offered the freehold for £620 including land registry fees (no mention of solicitor fees).

Thing is, it's my understanding that I only have the right to buy the freehold after 2 years of owning the lease (850 years left, no rush!), but I've been offered it after a few months. Does the 2 year rule still apply where the freehold is offered?

The company has also asked if I want to instruct my own solicitor (if I were to go ahead), would this be necessary if the freeholder is offering me the freehold without a fight? The price seems reasonable if there is no hassle involved. Any help/ advice would be much appreciated. Thanks in advance

Doozergirl

The 2 year point is where you can force the freeholder to sell/extend. You can ask or they can offer at any point.

It's always best to use your own solicitor to protect your interests. Their solicitor fees will probably double the price you've been quoted - you will be responsible for those.

Land_Registry

You should be able to find some useful guidance around such matters at the Leasehold Advisory Service website as well