Specialist funding for ground-up construction and major refurbishment projects, providing flexible financing solutions for property developers. Our Southampton-based service connects you with specialist lenders who understand the Hampshire property market.
Development finance is a short-term lending solution designed specifically for property developers undertaking ground-up construction projects or significant refurbishment works. This type of finance is structured to release funds in stages as the development progresses, ensuring you have capital when you need it most.
Our development finance solutions are tailored to meet the unique challenges of construction projects, whether you're building residential units, commercial properties, or mixed-use developments. We understand that every development is different, which is why we work with a panel of specialist lenders who can provide bespoke funding structures to match your project requirements.
With competitive rates, flexible terms, and experienced support throughout your development journey, we help turn ambitious property projects into reality. Our team has extensive experience in assessing development viability and securing funding for projects ranging from small-scale refurbishments to large multi-unit developments.
Development finance is typically released in stages as the project progresses. An initial advance covers land purchase and planning costs, followed by staged releases as construction milestones are achieved. A monitoring surveyor inspects the work at each stage to authorize the next drawdown, ensuring funds are released safely and in line with project progress.
Development finance costs typically include an arrangement fee (usually 1-2% of the loan), interest (charged monthly on drawn funds), a monitoring surveyor fee, legal fees, and a valuation fee. Interest can be rolled up and paid at the end of the term or serviced monthly, depending on your preference and the lender's criteria.
Yes, while lenders prefer experienced developers, many will consider first-time developers with a strong project plan and professional team in place. You may need to demonstrate relevant construction or property experience, provide a detailed business plan, and potentially accept slightly more conservative loan terms. Some lenders may also require additional security or a more experienced joint venture partner.
Most development finance lenders look for a minimum profit of 15-20% on GDV (Gross Development Value) to ensure the project is viable and provides a sufficient buffer for unexpected costs. They will assess your development appraisal carefully, including build costs, professional fees, finance costs, and sales assumptions to ensure the project stacks up financially.