Development Finance Advice Across Essex & London
Helping you secure the right Development Finance for your project
What is Development Finance?
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Development finance is a short-term type of funding designed to support property projects where value is created through construction, conversion, or refurbishment.
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Funds are typically released in stages as the build progresses, with lenders focusing on the project viability, build costs, end values, and exit strategy rather than personal income alone.
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I provide independent advice to clients across Essex and London, helping structure development finance for a wide range of residential and mixed-use projects.
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Development finance is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority.
When Development Finance may — or may not — be suitable
May be suitbable if:
You're undertaking a build, conversion, or heavy refurbishment
The project has a clear build schedule and costings
You have a defined exit strategy (sale or refinance)
The project stacks up based on end value (GDV)
May not be suitable if:
You're buying a completed, mortgage-ready property
The project costs or timelines are unclear
There's no realistic exit strategy
You're looking for long-term finance
How I can help with Development Finance
I help you assess whether development finance is appropriate for your project, structure funding correctly, and guide you through the process from initial enquiry to completion.
This includes:​
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Access to a wide range of development lenders
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Clear explanations around costs, risks, and funding structures
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Support through valuations, monitoring, and drawdowns
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Experience with complex or time-sensitive projects
Pros, cons & considerations
Funding for construction and value-add projects
Suitable for builds, conversions, and heavy refurbishments
Staged drawdowns
Funds released in line with build progress
Based on project viability
Decisions driven by end value rather than income alone
Higher costs than standard mortgages
Interest rates and fees are typically higher
More involved underwriting
Valuations, monitoring surveyors, and detailed costings required
Exit strategy and experience are critical
Lenders will expect a clear and realistic repayment plan and details of other projects that
Examples of where Development Finance has helped clients
Residential development
A client secured development finance for a multi-unit residential scheme, with funds released in stages to support construction costs. The project completed on schedule and exited via sale of the finished units.
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Commercial-to-residential conversion
A client converted an existing commercial building into residential units. Development finance was arranged to fund the works, with a refinance onto longer-term lending once the conversion was completed.
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Refurbishment and resale project
A client used development finance to carry out a heavy refurbishment on a residential multi-unit, improving the layout and condition before exiting through sale on completion.
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Mixed-use development
A client undertook a mixed-use development with both residential and commercial elements. Funding was structured to reflect the phased nature of the build and the different end uses.
What happens next if you decide to proceed?
How the process usually works
Initial conversation – I review your project, costs, and exit stategy
Agreement in principle / Heads of Terms - Subject to valuation and build appraisal
Full Application – Full submission and lender underwriting
Completion & drawdowns – Funds released in stages as work progresses
What you'll usually need
Proof of ID & address
Planning permission
Details of previous experience
If you’re still weighing up whether development finance is right for your project, these are some of the questions people often ask before deciding how to proceed.
FAQs
How is development finance assessed? Development finance is assessed based on the overall viability of the project, including build costs, end values, planning status, and the proposed exit strategy, rather than personal income alone.
How much deposit is usually required for development finance? The amount required varies by project, but lenders typically expect a contribution toward land or purchase costs, with development funding released in stages as the build progresses.
How are funds released during the build? Funds are usually released in stages, known as drawdowns, as construction milestones are reached. This is often overseen by a monitoring surveyor appointed by the lender.
Do I need previous development experience? Not always. Some lenders are comfortable supporting first-time developers, depending on the strength of the project, professional team, and overall risk profile.
Do you charge a fee for development finance advice? There’s no charge for initial discussions or reviewing your project at a high level. Any fees that apply will always be explained clearly before you decide to proceed.
