Hope value of developments
Hope value is the term used to describe the market value of land based on the expectation of getting planning permission for development on it. This differs from the existing use value which is what the land or property is worth in its current form.
Generally, land that has planning permission for development has a higher value than land that does not. For example, a farmer may receive a valuation of their land that reflects its agricultural value. However, if the farmer were to secure planning permission to build a housing development on the land, the value could rise considerably.
Hope value is the value based on the expectation that land will get permission for development in the future, meaning that it is likely to be worth more. The hope value will rise as the prospect of planning permission becomes more likely, for example, if it is identified for development in the Local Plan, or if similar land is granted permission.
Hope value is defined by RICS as “...any element of open Market Value of a property in excess of the current use value, reflecting the prospect of some more valuable future use or development”.
In December 2024 the Labour government opened a consultation on proposed changes to compulsory purchase order (CPO) rules, including the removal of “hope value” to support affordable housing delivery. Hope value, reflecting the potential future development value of land, often increases compensation costs for landowners. The consultation closes in February 2025, for further information and to make a response visit the government website page Open consultation: Compulsory Purchase Process and Compensation Reforms.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings
- Avoiding planning permission pitfalls.
- Development appraisal.
- Difference between existing use value and market value.
- Existing use value.
- How long does it take to get planning permission.
- Land acquisition.
- Land value.
- Meanwhile use.
- Off-plan property.
- Permitted development.
- Planning permission.
- Rating valuation.
- Residual valuation.
- Speculative construction.
- Use class designation for land and buildings.
- What is a housing start?
Featured articles and news
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.
A people-first approach to retrofit
Moving away from the destructive paradigm of fabric-first.
International Electrician Day, 10 June 2025
Celebrating the role of electrical engineers from André-Marie Amperè, today and for the future.
New guide for clients launched at Houses of Parliament
'There has never been a more important time for clients to step up and ...ask the right questions'
The impact of recycled slate tiles
Innovation across the decades.
EPC changes for existing buildings
Changes and their context as the new RdSAP methodology comes into use from 15 June.
Skills England publishes Sector skills needs assessments
Priority areas relating to the built environment highlighted and described in brief.
BSRIA HVAC Market Watch - May 2025 Edition
Heat Pump Market Outlook: Policy, Performance & Refrigerant Trends for 2025–2028.
Committing to EDI in construction with CIOB
Built Environment professional bodies deepen commitment to EDI with two new signatories: CIAT and CICES.
Government Grenfell progress report at a glance
Line by line recomendation overview, with links to more details.
An engaging and lively review of his professional life.
Sustainable heating for listed buildings
A problem that needs to be approached intelligently.
50th Golden anniversary ECA Edmundson apprentice award
Deadline for entries has been extended to Friday 27 June, so don't miss out!
CIAT at the London Festival of Architecture
Designing for Everyone: Breaking Barriers in Inclusive Architecture.
Mixed reactions to apprenticeship and skills reform 2025
A 'welcome shift' for some and a 'backwards step' for others.