Property Developers Playbook

In this re-released episode, Jonathan and Kieron look at the transition from flipping properties to engaging in larger-scale developments. They discuss the potential for greater profits, smarter tax strategies, and the overall benefits of development compared to traditional methods like flipping and BRRR (Buy, Refurbish, Rent, Refinance). The duo shares insights from their recent projects, includi...

In this episode of the Property Developers Playbook, Jonathan and Kieron unpack the details of the latest UK Budget and explore what it means for property developers, landlords, and business owners. From increases in the National Living Wage to the implications on Employer's National Insurance contributions, they discuss how these measures will impact construction costs and the broader property ma...

Jonathan and Kieron provide a comprehensive update on the integration of Artificial Intelligence within property development, featuring expert guest Cristina Axford. They detail her journey from developing 360-degree virtual tour software for estate agents to building a robust suite of AI tools designed to streamline the entire property lifecycle. The discussion covers the specific challenges of f...

Jonathan and Kieron provide a comprehensive project update on their latest major development: Luxstowe House in Liskeard. They detail the acquisition and planning journey behind transforming this 1831 Grade II listed building—which has historical ties to the founders of Barclays Bank—into a 34-apartment residential complex. The discussion covers the specific challenges of listed building planning...

This week, we revisit one of our older episodes that you may have missed! Jonathan and Kieron unmask the various methods of construction used in property development. They discuss the pros and cons of traditional brick and block construction, highlighting its reliability and buyer perception, while also exploring the growing popularity of timber frame and modular construction methods. They cover e...

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron discuss the latest housing market announcements from the Labour conference, specifically focusing on the new "Your First Home" scheme for first-time buyers. Before analyzing the policy, they share progress updates on their Saltash development and recap a recent open day at Luxor House in Liskeard, where they proactively engaged with the local community and host...

In this Q&A episode, Jonathan and Kieron answer key listener questions covering the core business of property development. They break down how to properly budget for contingencies, how to navigate party walls and neighbour relations as critical project stakeholders, and the mechanics of holding back retentions under JCT contracts.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Maintain a 10% Contingency: While 5% contingenc...

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron dive deep into the often-overlooked world of property development waste management. Highlighting the surprising statistics around construction waste in the UK, where the sector accounts for over 60% of total waste generated, Jonathan and Kieron explore practical strategies for reducing landfill reliance, lowering project costs, and maintaining regulatory compli...

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron detail the property handover process, focusing on the creation and management of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) manuals. They outline the critical documentation developers must provide to buyers to ensure long-term building health, compliance, and ease of maintenance. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Purpose of O&M Manuals: Main contractors are contractually obligated to pr...

Jonathan and Kieron dissect the Prime Minister's pledge to combat "cowboy builders" and the proposed government-run escrow portal designed to protect £10 billion in lost industry funds. Instead of relying on slow bureaucratic systems, they outline practical ways to use JCT contracts and independent surveyors to securely manage project capital and protect both contractors and clients. KEY TAKEAWAYS...

In this episode of the Property Developers Playbook, Kieron and Jonathan dive into a Q&A format, addressing key questions from their listeners about property development. They discuss the importance of contingencies in development finance, emphasising the need for a reserve fund to cover unforeseen costs. KEY TAKEAWAYS Contingency Planning: Developers should factor in a contingency of 10% for buil...

In this episode, Kieron and Jonathan give an update on their latest development projects before diving deep into the art of presentation in property development. They discuss how you present yourself, your offer proposals, and your deal opportunities can make or break a deal with vendors, estate agents, and investors. KEY TAKEAWAYS Avoid Flippant Email Offers: Simply emailing a single cash figure...

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron sit down with residential interior designer Tanith McKenzie to unpack the vital role interior design plays in profitable property development. Tanith clears up the misconception between basic interior styling and structural interior architecture, highlighting why developers need design input during the blueprint phase rather than after first fix.  KEY TAKE...

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron dive deep into the hidden hazards lurking beneath property development sites. From soil contamination and historical land usage to invasive plant species like Japanese knotweed, they break down why a clean-looking plot can often be deceiving.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Looks Can Be Deceiving: A site may appear flat, clean, and ready for construction, but historical us...

In this episode, Kieron flies solo while co-host Jonathan takes a break to deliver an honest, candid look at the uncomfortable reality of property development: failed deals, lost capital, and unexpected setbacks. Kieron shares behind-the-scenes stories from his own portfolio, including a promising five-house development that unraveled due to planning restrictions and a high-margin site he had to w...

In this episode, Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepherd dive discuss the essential skill of evaluating and filtering property development leads. For new and scaling developers alike, it is easy to fall into the trap of "shiny penny syndrome," treating every incoming lead like a goldmine. KEY TAKEAWAYS Filter Fast to Protect Your Time: New developers often jump at every opportunity, but early disquali...

In this special solo episode of the Property Developers Playbook, Jonathan Stobbs takes the mic to share some candid, actionable advice for developers and business owners at every stage of their journey. While Kieron's away, Jonathan breaks down three critical mindset shifts required to thrive in the demanding world of property.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Delegate to Elevate: You cannot and should not tr...

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron dive deep into the often misunderstood world of interior design in property development. After sharing an exciting update on their latest acquisition, a massive office-to-residential conversion in Cornwall, the duo address one of the biggest pitfalls developers face: injecting personal taste into target-market designs.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Design for the Market,...

Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepherd pull back the curtain on one of their live developments, Saltash — an office-to-residential conversion — in a "developer diary" style update. They walk through how the site was sourced, the funding structure, the technical curveballs thrown up during construction, and the lessons learned so far. KEY TAKEAWAYS Sourcing the Deal: The Saltash site (officially St Ja...

In this episode of the Property Developers Playbook, hosts Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepherd delve into the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone, particularly in the realm of property development and business. They discuss how fear often holds us back from taking necessary steps and share personal anecdotes about overcoming anxiety in various situations, from networking events to clie...

In this episode, Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepherd dive into the lifeblood of property development: networking. They explore why your network truly dictates your net worth and detail exactly how to build essential relationships with vendors, agents, planners, and builders.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Property is a Relationship Business: While it may look like an industry built strictly on land and bricks, pr...

In this episode, Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepherd tackle one of the most overlooked yet crucial skills in business: the follow-up. They discuss the staggering statistics behind why most people fail by giving up too soon and reframe the word "no" as simply a defensive buffer, meaning not right now.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Redefine Rejection: A "no" is often an automatic, protective buffer meaning "not ri...

Construction Management is not for the faint hearted or the amateur developer. Most developers should use a main contractor for their developments — but there is an alternative route for those who want greater control over costs. Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepherd are joined by Andrew Doidge of We Are Ease, one of the Southwest's leading construction management consultancies, to break down how th...

Property development shouldn’t feel like a closed shop reserved for the elite, but the reality is that most people who want to jump in never actually take that first step. This conversation strips back the jargon to look at what it really takes to move from being a tradesperson or professional into delivering multi-unit projects. It’s not just about having a massive pot of cash; it’s about the min...

Stop letting over-engineered building specs swallow your hard-earned profit margins. Navigating the balance between what an architect dreams up and what actually makes financial sense on the ground is a constant battle for property developers. Managing a development budget isn't just about finding the absolute cheapest materials; it is about strategic value engineering. Cost engineering simply man...