Define what a good outcome means

Before comparing proposals, consider your timescale, appetite for risk, available capital and willingness to remain involved. These priorities affect whether an outright sale, development or partnership is a sensible starting point.

Compare commitments as well as value

An immediate sale and a longer-term development return are not directly comparable. One may transfer risk and responsibility; the other may require funding, management and patience. Put the obligations beside the potential return.

Read the conditions

Offers can differ on planning, surveys, access, timing and the circumstances in which a buyer can withdraw or change the price. Commercial comparison and independent legal advice are both needed before treating two offers as equivalent.

Understand the partner

If someone else will help deliver the opportunity, their experience, resources and incentives matter. Agree how decisions would be made, who funds what and what happens if the plan changes.

Choose the next step, not every step

You may first need an options review, planning input or a viability appraisal. There is no need to decide the final route before understanding the realistic choices. The first task is often to make those choices clear.