Selling Your Dorset Property with Planning Permission: A Smart Move for Homeowners
- Rosenkelly Architectural Design
- Feb 3
- 3 min read
If you're thinking about selling your home or land in Dorset, there’s one simple move that can help you stand out — get planning permission first.
Whether you're based in Weymouth, Portland, Dorchester, or Bridport, properties with planning permission are generally more attractive to buyers. It shows the property’s potential, removes uncertainty, and opens the door to a wider range of buyers — including those looking to build straight away.
Why Planning Permission Makes Sense
More buyer confidence: Buyers like knowing what they can do with a site. If you've already had plans approved, that’s a big tick in their book.
Shows potential: A simple extension, a loft conversion, or even outline permission for a new dwelling can show off what’s possible.
Less red tape for the next owner: With planning consent in place, buyers know they won’t have to wait months to get started.
What Types of Permission Can Help?
If you’re preparing your Dorset property for sale, here are a few routes worth considering:
Full Planning Permission
This is the most detailed kind — it gives the green light for a specific design. You’ll need drawings and a formal submission to Dorset Council. Once approved, it gives buyers full clarity on what’s allowed.
Outline Planning Permission
This is more flexible — it approves a type of development “in principle” without full details. It's especially useful for landowners or sellers who want to show potential without locking into a full design.
Lawful Development Certificate (LDC)
An LDC isn’t planning permission, but it confirms that your proposed works fall within permitted development. For things like lofts or single-storey rear extensions, this is a great way to show buyers that the plans are above board.
Things to Keep in Mind in Dorset
Dorset has its fair share of planning sensitivities — coastal zones, conservation areas, AONBs, and flood zones all bring extra considerations. That’s why local knowledge is key.
At Rosenkelly Architectural Design, we’ve worked across Weymouth, Dorchester, Portland, and Bridport. We understand how Dorset Council handles applications and what’s likely to be accepted. We also help identify planning constraints early — whether it’s parking requirements, ecology concerns, or design guidance — and work to build applications that address them.
What Buyers Like to See
If you’re selling a site or home with permission, make it easy for buyers to understand what’s possible. Here’s what helps:
Clear plans or drawings — ideally from a registered architect
Site boundaries marked up
Evidence of service connections (if land)
Planning documents ready to view
Photos or sketches showing the approved idea
Notes on access, nearby amenities, or schools
These extras make it easier for buyers to imagine the future — and see why your property is worth their offer.
Why Work with an Architect First?
Planning isn’t just a form to fill out. It needs a clear design, awareness of local policies, and careful wording. That’s where we come in. Rosenkelly Architectural Design is based in Weymouth and regularly works with Dorset homeowners to secure planning — whether that’s a full application, an outline scheme, or a certificate of lawful development.
We keep it clear, local, and cost-effective. And if you’re thinking of selling, we’ll help you position your property to get the best possible outcome.
Ready to Add Value Before You Sell?
If you're considering a sale — and want to make the most of it — speak to
Rosenkelly Architectural Design. We’ll help assess what’s possible, advise on the best approach, and prepare your application professionally.
We work across Dorset and offer a free initial consultation. Let’s talk about how planning permission can make your property more attractive, more marketable, and more valuable to the right buyer.
