When an agricultural plot of land is sold, the neighbouring owner-farmer (or tenant farmer) may hold a right of pre-emption: on equal terms, they have priority in purchasing it.
This means that a sale can be called into question if the pre-emption right is not handled correctly. The owner must notify the eligible parties of the proposed sale, and they are given a set period of time in which to exercise their right of pre-emption.
If the pre-emption right is disregarded, the eligible party may exercise the right of redemption even after the sale has been completed, stepping into the buyer's shoes. This is a very real risk that must be checked before any contracts are signed.
Our advice: before purchasing a plot of land, have a solicitor check the situation regarding neighbouring landowners and the position of any farmers working the land. A preventive check will help you avoid lengthy and costly legal disputes.