Afleveringen
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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 TAKEAWAYSDesign for the Market, Not Yourself: The ultimate goal of interior design in property development is to appeal to your specific target demographic, not to showcase your personal aesthetic preferences.Bring Designers in Early: Don't wait until the walls are up. Engaging an interior designer during the initial layout and space-planning phase helps optimise room flow, privacy, and functionality before structural mistakes are made.Prioritise Low-Maintenance Materials: For entry-level or buy-to-let markets, substituting traditional tiles with robust alternatives like aqua panels or opting for Karndean (LVT) flooring can dramatically reduce long-term maintenance costs and quicken installation times.The "Grey Dynasty" is Fading: Shifting design trends indicate that the cold, monochromatic blue-grays of the past decade are on their way out, making way for warmer earth tones and cozy, pastel accent points that feel like a home.Honest Architecture Creates a USP: Following the model of leading developers like Capital & Centric, allowing the raw fabric of a building to speak for itself can create a unique brand identity that commands premium interest.BEST MOMENTS"Zero maintenance doesn't exist. But low maintenance does, and on these types of builds... that's what you want to aim for.""We used to have the Magnolia Revolution pre-90s... then we moved into this gray dynasty where everybody has gone gray... I think we're a little bit tired of that now as a country.""Interior design is very subjective... developers are busy finding sites, appraising sites, putting everything together, and interior designers are keeping up to date with the local trends.""When you are talking to interior designers... have a look at their previous projects, speak to their previous clients, see what they've done before... they should be able to give you referrals to support their work.""A good interior designer... will be able to value engineer that and give you some examples of what that would be... So if it's not your strength, lean on the professionals."YOUTUBE CHANNELhttps://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiqHOST BIOSJonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.OUR SOCIALShttps://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/ https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/ https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/ Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive
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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 James Court) was found on Rightmove via a commercial agent. Its "ugly duckling" appearance — a tired render finish and awkward mansard roof — likely put off other buyers, but the internal layout and space worked in the hosts' favour, and it qualified for Class MA permitted development rights, simplifying planning.
Funding Flexibility: The purchase was structured using vendor finance in combination with bridging finance, later refinanced onto development finance — a combination that gave the team breathing room to secure planning and progress construction.
Existing Buildings Bring Surprises: Conversions mean working with what's already there. The team discovered the building was actually two structures joined together, with a hidden concrete ring beam and an unexpected steel structure creating a large void between floors — all requiring on-the-spot design decisions.
Gas vs Electric — A Costly Pivot: A quote of £28,000 to bring gas to the site led the team to switch to an all-electric specification, using solutions like Quantum Dimplex heaters to maintain strong EPC ratings without blowing the budget.
Insulate Externally, Not Internally: Choosing external wall insulation (EWI) over internal insulation cost more upfront but preserved valuable internal square footage in the apartments and gave the whole building a refreshed, brand-new appearance.
Challenge the Spec: The team swapped out architect-specified products (insulation brands, floor build-ups) for alternatives that hit the same performance values at lower cost or faster install time — provided the u-values and building regs requirements were still met.
Utilities: Start Early: Both hosts agreed the biggest lesson from the project was getting utility companies involved sooner, particularly given the knock-on effect on timing and design decisions.
Plan for Logistics: Access for tradespeople, delivery vehicles and skips is easy to overlook on tight or hidden sites — something the hosts recommend mapping out clearly for suppliers and contractors in advance.
BEST MOMENTS
"It's a solid building — actually two buildings that have joined together."
"We're not doing gas anymore."
"You've got to be able to react, respond positively, and do what you can do."
"Would you buy another office conversion? Absolutely — I think we are tomorrow."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he's involved in every stage — from design to delivery — offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
OUR SOCIALS
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979/https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamphttps://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
Zijn er afleveringen die ontbreken?
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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 client meetings.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Embrace Discomfort for Growth : Stepping out of your comfort zone is essential for personal and professional growth. Engaging in new experiences, even if they feel uncomfortable, can lead to valuable opportunities and relationships.
Fear is Often Illusory : Fear can be defined as "false evidence appearing real." It's important to recognize that the scenarios we create in our minds often do not reflect reality, and overcoming this fear is crucial for taking the first step.
Learn from Experience : Just like learning to drive, gaining experience in property development or any new venture becomes easier over time. The first attempt may be daunting, but with practice, it becomes second nature.
BEST MOMENTS
"Growth happens outside the comfort zone. Once you expand your comfort zone, that becomes a lot easier."
"You have to take the first step and you'll grow from that. Don't overthink things."
"It's comfortable to sit on the sofa and do nothing, right? The normal is easy, it's comfortable."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stag —from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
OUR SOCIALS
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your
seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
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, property development fundamentally relies on the strength of your professional relationships.
Build Your Power Team: Success requires cultivating strong, ongoing connections with a wide variety of professionals, including commercial agents, planning consultants, builders, and subcontractors.
Master the One-Minute Pitch: Prepare a concise, clear introduction before attending events. Knowing exactly how to articulate who you are and who you help will give you confidence and make you memorable.
Lead with Value, Not a Sales Pitch: Go to events with the intention of building genuine relationships and finding ways to assist others, rather than just collecting a stack of business cards.
The Fortune is in the Follow-Up: The real networking happens after the event. Always connect with new contacts on platforms like LinkedIn or Instagram, and schedule follow-up coffee chats to solidify the relationship.
BEST MOMENTS
"Your network is your net worth. Build your network as big as possible, and your net worth could follow that."
"Property, people think, is a land and buildings business, but actually it's a relationship business. Because everything in property development is all about the relations."
"Out of all people's fears, death was third. The first one was public speaking."
"Don't go in there just trying to be a buyer or a seller. You're trying to network and try and build relationships and connections, and genuinely just try and be interested and open-minded into what other people are there for."
"It's not just about collecting how many business cards you can collect. Go there with the intention of building relationships and basically seeing how you can help other people."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
OUR SOCIALS
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
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 right now," which leaves the door open for future opportunities.
Systems are Essential: Utilise CRMs, spreadsheets, or calendar reminders to track touchpoints and ensure no lead falls through the cracks.
Value-Driven Persistence: Provide value during follow-ups, such as offering a coffee, bringing lunch, or giving away branded promotional items, rather than just asking for a deal.
Avoid Desperation: Maintain professionalism and avoid coming across as desperate, which can quickly deter potential clients, vendors, and investors.
Leverage Referrals: Even if a prospect isn't ready to do business, always ask if they know someone else in their network who might be a good fit.
QUOTES
"80% of sales requires five or more touchpoints, yet 44% of salespeople give up after the first try."
"I always hear 'no' as 'not right now' every time."
"There is a fine line between persistence and being annoying."
"Don't go shopping when you're hungry... If you're desperate, that's not the time to be having meetings."
"You're almost presenting, aren't you? It's a bit of a show and tell, and then if they ask questions, then you know they're interested."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
OUR SOCIALS
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
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 this procurement model actually works.
The conversation covers the contractual differences from traditional builds, the value of early contractor and supply chain involvement, and how rapid mobilisation can rescue stalled or bank-repossessed sites.
You'll learn why pre-construction cost gateways matter, how to avoid being "dazzled" by a design you can't afford, when construction management makes financial sense, and the real-world value engineering decisions that protect your margins. Andrew also shares hard-won lessons from 15 years of high-end residential and hospitality projects.
If you're serious about maximising value on your next development, this one's essential listening.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Get cost advice at RIBA Stage 3, not Stage 4. Confirm your design is affordable before committing to expensive technical design packs — too many developers discover they're a million over budget only after the detailed drawings are done.
Bring contractors and supply chain in early ("early contractor involvement") to test buildability, not just whether a design works on paper. Planning drawings don't guarantee something can actually be built.
Understand the contractual difference: under construction management, the client enters into direct contracts with each trade package, with the consultancy acting as principal contractor — meaning specification savings benefit you, not the main contractor.
Skip the protracted tender process to save 6–12 months and avoid material inflation eating your viability. Negotiate by setting a QS-costed budget and asking contractors to build to it, rather than comparing seven competing prices.
QUOTES
"Design is everything. Design is everything. Design is everything. And I mean that sincerely."
"Nothing worse than going for the cheapest price, and it all goes tits up — everybody's out of pocket, and then they blame the builder."
"It's not always about whether design works. It's about: can you build it?"
"We very often get that Friday afternoon phone call to say, 'Can you start Monday?'"
"People who don't know, don't know — and this is where, if you've got people with experience, you can at least get answers from people who've done it before."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
FOR REFERENCE
Website: https://www.weareease.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/we-are-ease-ltd/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/weareease/
OUR SOCIALS
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
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 mindset to treat development as a serious business rather than a side hustle. The discussion dives into the massive shift in the UK market, where small developers have seen their share of new builds plummet, and why that’s exactly why new, agile developers are needed today. From spotting hidden drainage risks to managing the voices of well-meaning family members who want to keep you in your comfort zone, this is a practical roadmap for anyone ready to stop watching from the sidelines and start building a track record.
5 Key Takeaways
Treat property development as a full-time business rather than a hobby or side hustle to ensure you manage risk and finance properly.
Aim for a "sweet spot" of 3 to 10 units for your first project to benefit from economies of scale without becoming overwhelmed by complexity.
Leverage your existing background—whether in trades, accounting, or sales—to fill specific roles within your development team.
Don't let analysis paralysis or the fear of being an "imposter" stop you from making offers, as the offer is simply the start of the negotiation.
Education and mentorship are vital to avoid costly "hidden" mistakes like miscalculating drainage distances or planning constraints.
5 Key Quotes
"If you treat it as a side hustle or hobby, it'll always stay as a hobby."
"The number of people interested in property development who never start is actually between 70 to 80%."
"Fake it to yourself before you make it for yourself... giving yourself confidence."
"The biggest I'm not going to say naysayers but the people who will talk you out of this... they're going to be the closest people to you."
"Every master was a once disaster at one stage... the difference is they took the first step."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
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 manages expenses, but value engineering finds the sweet spot between time, financial outlay, and quality without compromising the final product. Dive into the practical realities of managing construction budgets, from pushing back on high-end insulation requirements to rethinking exterior details that do not add to the end valuation. Learn how to have those tough, early conversations with structural engineers and main contractors to protect the bottom line. It is entirely possible to deliver a top-tier finish while aggressively defending the project's profitability, provided the right questions are asked before the first brick is laid.
Key Takeaways
Never blindly accept initial building specifications without questioning if alternative, more cost-effective materials can achieve the exact same standard.
Cost engineering focuses purely on managing expenses, whereas value engineering optimises the balance of time, financial outlay, and overall build quality.
Have robust conversations with structural engineers and design consultants before full construction drawings are issued to avoid expensive mid-project revisions.
Always evaluate if high-end finishes or complex architectural details will genuinely increase the final valuation of the property.
Establish open communication with the main contractor early on to identify practical supply chain alternatives that protect the profit margin.
Quotes
"The key is not to cut corners. Cost engineering is talking about the actual cost of things and managing the costs, buying right."
"Value engineering is when we're not just talking about cost, we're talking about time. If it saves us time, it's going to save us a lot of money down the line."
"You can't just go around swapping things out. It has to be documented. Building control needs to know about it and warranty providers need it as well."
"Don't give the architects a blank canvas to go off and do whatever they want. It has just blown build budgets completely."
"As a developer, being the client, you might look at working to control those costs, so you know exactly what the contractor's plus is."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
Negotiation isn't just about the number on the page; it’s about making sure the deal actually stacks before you even pick up the phone. Too many developers are flushing hundreds of thousands down the drain by overpaying at the front end because they haven't done the legwork.
We’re stripping back the "Art of Negotiation" to show you how professional due diligence becomes your ultimate leverage when talking to vendors. From identifying bat emergence windows to navigating the minefield of CIL and Section 106, we explain why your offer needs to solve the seller's problems, not just meet their price. Whether you are hounding an agent for a year or presenting a professional pitch deck to a hotel owner, everything in this industry is up for grabs if you know how to structure it. It’s time to stop winging it and start building a credible, systematic approach to every offer you make.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Due diligence is the foundation of any negotiation, providing the "ammunition" needed to justify your offer price based on site constraints and risks.
Everything in property is negotiable, including professional fees, build contracts, completion timelines, and even rental terms.
A professional offer pack or "pitch deck" builds massive credibility with agents and vendors, proving you are a serious developer who can actually deliver.
The goal is to negotiate against the deal’s risks rather than the person selling it, finding a sweet spot that works for both parties’ bottom lines.
Emotional detachment is vital; you must be willing to walk away from a deal if the margins don't work, trusting your gut when a project feels off.
QUOTES
"There's a right way of doing it... our way of doing it. We find it successful and it works."
"Everything is negotiable. Everything."
"You're not negotiating against the seller. All you're doing is negotiating against the risk."
"A good deal is a bad deal for both... you'll never have a deal that is perfect for you."
"If it doesn't feel right, it's not right. You've got to trust your gut."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
One of the most common questions from anyone getting into property development — and one of the most misunderstood. Jonathan and Kieron break down the company structures every developer needs to understand before they buy a single brick. From the risks of lumping everything into one trading company, through to SPVs, holding companies and joint venture structures, this episode covers the landscape clearly and without the jargon. There's also a really honest look at tax considerations, pension strategies, and why lenders actually prefer a clean, history-free SPV over a company with a track record. Spoiler: property finance works differently to almost every other industry. A timely reminder that structure isn't just admin — it's how you protect everything you build. Not tax or legal advice — just two developers who've been through it, sharing what they know.
5 KEY TAKEAWAYS
Buying all your properties within one trading company is the riskiest approach — if one development runs into trouble, it can bring down everything else sitting alongside it.
A Special Purpose Vehicle (SPV) — a separate limited company for each project — keeps developments clean, protected, and far more attractive to lenders and finance institutions.
A holding company structure above your SPVs gives you greater control over profit extraction, tax planning, and scalability as your pipeline grows.
Lenders don't want history in the development company — they want a clean SPV with no baggage. This is the opposite of how most trading businesses work, and it catches a lot of developers out.
Structure should be planned from the very beginning, not retrofitted once you're already in. Getting advice from a tax professional early pays dividends — sometimes literally.
QUOTES
"Good structure is all about protecting profits and mitigating risk — it's not one size fits all."
"If something had to go wrong with your one development, it could affect all the others — that's why we'd never advocate that approach."
"They don't want the history in the company — they don't want the baggage. They want it as clean as possible."
"It's not about not wanting to pay taxes. It's about not paying too much tax."
"Start with the end in mind. Think about your company structure right at the very beginning — even if you're just doing land sourcing."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
We’ve reached a massive milestone—it’s our 50th episode!. To celebrate, we are stepping out of our comfort zone and taking the podcast visual with the launch of our YouTube channel, Property Developers IQ. Looking back at our first 49 episodes, we reflect on the steep learning curve of moving from spreadsheets and construction sites to the podcast mic.
In this episode, we dive into the core philosophy that drives our business: People, Place, and Profit. We discuss the necessity of building a "power team," the emotional roller coaster of development, and why we’re committed to showing you the "good, the bad, and the ugly" of the 100-dwelling pipeline we’re currently managing. Whether you're an aspiring developer or a seasoned pro, join us as we evolve from just an audio experience to on-site walkthroughs and deep-dive case studies.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Growth Happens Outside the Comfort Zone: Moving from audio to video was a challenge for a numbers-focused accountant and a site-focused contractor, but essential for evolution.
The Power Team is Non-Negotiable: You cannot do property development alone; success relies on building a core team of professionals like solicitors and planning consultants.
The "Three Ps" Philosophy: Our work is grounded in People (building for others), Place (creating community), and Profit (ensuring a professional, sustainable business).
Money is a Tool, Not a Barrier: You don't necessarily need all of your own money, but you do need access to capital through private investors or finance partners.
Transparency in Development: We aim to bridge the information gap by sharing real build costs and case studies to help others overcome the fear of their first step.
QUOTES
"I love my spreadsheets... it was a lot easier no one talked back and as long as the numbers balance i'm a-okay."
"As everyone knows you grow when you're outside your comfort zone."
"Team is the most important thing... from day one you've got to start building that a team."
"People always think that developers are greedy... but actually when you look at what a developer brings to the table... it's very understated."
"Every day is a school day."
YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/@propertydevelopersiq
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron break down the critical processes of valuations and drawdowns. They explain how developers can successfully extract money from their lender by working effectively with the Monitoring Surveyor, who acts as the primary gatekeeper for the funds.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The Monitoring Surveyor is the Gatekeeper: The MS works independently on behalf of the lender to verify your build costs and progress before any money is released. Building a good, honest relationship with them is essential.
Funding is Released in Stages: You do not get your loan upfront; instead, you draw down funds in stages or "tranches" based on verified progress, usually assessed as a percentage of completed work.
Avoid Overclaiming at All Costs: Attempting to claim for work that hasn't been completed yet will damage your credibility and can cause major cash flow delays down the line.
Timing, Accuracy, and Evidence are Crucial: When submitting a drawdown request, make sure it is perfectly timed for your cash flow needs, mathematically accurate, and backed by clear evidence.
Set Clear Terms with Contractors: Ensure your main contractor understands the valuation schedule and submits detailed, clear applications for payment that align with what the MS expects to see.
BEST MOMENTS
"Today we're talking about valuations, drawdowns... basically how to extract the money from your development through the lender and working with the key gatekeeper... who is the monitoring surveyor."
"Ultimately cash flow is what keeps the whole development ticking, everyone moving forward... cash is king."
"Timing, accuracy and evidence... they are really important points."
"If you're trying to be shifty or sneaky, you're going to end, dig yourself into a hole."
"You want the monitoring surveyor, whoever is the gatekeeper of the money, to be on your side or as much on your side as possible while they still independent and acting on behalf of the lender."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
Ever feel like you’re playing detective when assessing a potential development site? We’re back for part two of our deep dive into the eight key areas of deal assessment, moving beyond the basics into the "heavy lifting" of environmental risks and legal minefields. From the nightmare of protected bat hotels to the surprising discovery of a wolfhound buried on-site, we share the technical hurdles that can make or break your viability assessment. We talk through why contamination isn't always a reason to walk away, how to spot a "ransom strip" before it halts your project, and why you should never offer the asking price without factoring in the logistics of a tight urban build. If you want to stop guessing and start pitching professional offers that landowners actually respect, this is the playbook you need.
Key Takeaways
Identify Problems Early: You cannot design around a problem you haven’t identified; spotting risks early prevents wasted time and money.
Contamination as Opportunity: Technical risks like contamination or mining history shouldn't necessarily scare you off; they are often leverage for price negotiations.
Verify Access Rights: Easements and "ransom strips" are critical legal hurdles; even if a pylon or lane looks like a negative, it can sometimes be turned into a commercial advantage.
Logistics Impact Build Costs: Simple new builds can become high-risk if access is restricted by narrow sticks or urban density, as contractors will price in these complexities.
Build Relationship Equity: Success in property is about "give and take" with local agents; nurturing these connections can get you access to land before it ever hits the open market.
Quotes
"Some people may be put off by these things... but all you're doing is assessing the risk and associate the cost with that for your viability."
"The bats are living better than most people bloody hell."
"A good commercial solicitor is worth their weight in gold to make sure there's nothing restricting access or rights of way."
"You can't design around a problem you haven't identified."
"Relationships are about give and take... you scratch my back, I'll scratch yours."
Chapters
00:00 – Environmental and Technical Risks: Flood Zones and Contamination
08:15 – The "Bat Hotel": Managing Protected Species and Ecology
16:40 – Legal Constraints: Restricted Covenants and Ransom Strips
24:20 – Build Logistics: Dealing with Ground Conditions and Access
32:10 – Market and Exit: Finding the Most Profitable Strategy
38:45 – Professional Pitching: How to Justify Your Offer to Vendors
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive
To Get 10% off Searchland subscription CLICK this link - https://searchland.co.uk?via=jonathan-stobbs -
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron explore the transition from finding a site to truly understanding its potential and pitfalls. Many beginners make the mistake of running a financial viability assessment before looking at the physical and legal reality of the land. They introduce a framework of eight key risk areas, focusing today on the first four: Planning Risk, Physical Site and Building Constraints, Access and Highways, and Utilities and Services.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Never fall in love with the numbers before you understand the site constraints; a "cheap" site can quickly become a liability if the physical or legal risks are too high.
Use the planning portal not just for your site, but to research the history of surrounding plots to gauge the council’s appetite for development.
The steeper the slope, the higher the cost. Factors like tanking, retaining walls, and complex foundations must be identified early in the physical assessment.
Just because a road exists doesn't mean you have the legal right to use it for a new development. Always verify "ransom strips" and highway adoption status.
Capacity is the hidden deal-killer. Always check with the National Grid or water authorities early, as requiring a new substation can decimate your profit margins.
BEST MOMENTS
"Most beginners get all excited... they start running the numbers before even looking at the site constraints, which we think is a huge mistake."
"The greater the gradient of the slope, the more costs there are."
"Just because there's a road there doesn't mean it's an adopted road... you can’t just do what you want."
"We switched [the water] off... and we very quickly found out who owned it because they came running out of the house in a bath cap."
"Every physical constraint becomes a cost or a design limitation."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive
To Get 10% off Searchland subscription CLICK this link - https://searchland.co.uk?via=jonathan-stobbs -
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron share their GOLDMINE framework for identifying the perfect location for your next development project. Drawing on their experience in the Cornwall property market and beyond, they break down the GOLDMINE acronym a comprehensive toolkit designed to help both new and scaling developers move from guesswork to data-driven decision-making. KEY TAKEAWAYSA step-by-step framework covering Growth Drivers, Opportunity Density, Local Demand, Data & Comparables, Market Liquidity, Infrastructure, Navigable Planning, and Exit Clarity.While you can develop anywhere with the right team, Jonathan and Kieron emphasize the benefits of working locally where you have deep market knowledge and established connections.National housebuilders have entire teams dedicated to research; if they are building in an area, it’s a strong indicator of demand and future growth.Successful developers build what the market wants, not what they personally like. Use tools like home.co.uk and Searchland to understand what's actually selling.Every successful development begins with a clear exit strategy (e.g., build-to-sell, build-to-rent, or holiday lets) tailored to the specific demographics of the area.BEST MOMENTS"Good deals don't really come from lucky areas; they come from understanding areas in more detail.""Developers don't really build what they like; they build what sells.""Market liquidity it sounds like stocks and shares, but essentially, that is it: What is moving? Is the market actually active?""The buyers will be the buyers, and it can be a big mix... you've got to just be firm with your thought and move forward."HOST BIOSJonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/ https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/ https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/ Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive To Get 10% off Searchland subscription CLICK this link - https://searchland.co.uk?via=jonathan-stobbs
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In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron demystify the complexities of health and safety in the UK construction industry. From understanding the Construction (Design and Management) Regulations (CDM) to the practicalities of site setup, like welfare units and M-class vacuums - they cover it all. Whether you’re a seasoned developer or just starting your first project, this conversation highlights why you can't plead ignorance when it comes to site safety and how a well-run, tidy site is often the hallmark of a successful, high-quality development.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Ultimately, the buck stops with the developer. You cannot plead ignorance if something goes wrong on your site; you are responsible for ensuring the right team and safety measures are in place.
Successful safety management relies on defining the roles of the Client (Developer), the Principal Designer (usually the architect), and the Principal Contractor.
For most professional developments, you must notify the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) using an F10 form, which outlines what you are building and how you plan to do it safely.
Health and safety isn't just about preventing falls; it’s about worker welfare. This includes providing adequate toilets, drying rooms for wet clothes, and areas for hot drinks and food.
Tidy sites suggest efficient management and high-quality work. Conversely, a messy site is a red flag for safety risks and poor construction standards.
BEST MOMENTS
"Ultimately as the developer, you're where the buck stops. It's your ship, right?"
"Health and safety isn't just a paper exercise or box-ticking; it is critical to a development."
"Under pressure is not safe. It’s like a pressure cooker. The more pressure, the more unsafe it gets."
"You're not allowed brooms on sites, because it creates dust. You must have an M-class vacuum on site."
"Proper planning prevents piss-poor performance."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieran dive into the mandatory Biodiversity Net Gain regulations in England and discuss how developers can reframe them from a frustrating hurdle into a value-adding opportunity. Before tackling BNG, the guys share an exciting update on their Liskeard office-to-residential conversion.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Embrace 3D Modelling: Utilising 3D models and augmented reality for projects helps developers visualise spaces, identify mechanical and electrical clashes early, and save significant time and money on site.
Understand the BNG Mandate: Biodiversity Net Gain is now a mandatory requirement for planning applications in England, requiring developers to leave the natural environment in a 10% better state than before the development.
Know Your Exemptions: Not all projects require BNG compliance; exemptions include sites under 0.2 hectares, replacement of existing hard surfaces, permitted developments, and certain self-builds.
Reframe the Cost: Instead of viewing BNG as a mere tax or checklist item, developers can use green infrastructure to create premium lifestyle spaces, improve community well-being, and ultimately increase the property's value.
Explore Off-Site Credits: If you cannot fulfill the 30-year biodiversity maintenance requirement on your own plot, you can purchase off-site credits. This opens up a potential arbitrage market by working directly with local landowners and farmers.
BEST MOMENTS
"Architects should, in my opinion, be modelling in 3D from scratch... I don't think it takes them much more time."
"What if biodiversity isn't just a cost of development but an opportunity to create value?"
"I have no idea [what a biodiversity credit is]... It's foreigners' Bitcoin to me."
"We are animals, we are humans, we love nature. That's what we're here for, right?"
"You've got to try and see the good in this. Otherwise, you're just gonna talk yourself out of doing anything."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
Jonathan and Kieron explore the world of ‘option agreements’. They share their recent experience meeting with a landowner and explain how these legal tools can be a game-changer for property developers, allowing them to control land without the immediate need for a full purchase. They cover the benefits for both developers and landowners, various deal structures, and the importance of professional legal advice.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
An option agreement gives a developer the right, but not the obligation, to purchase a property at a pre-agreed price within a specific timeframe.
These agreements significantly reduce upfront capital requirements and allow developers to de-risk projects by securing planning permission before finalising the purchase.
Landowners can potentially achieve a higher sale price after planning is secured, while the developer funds all the associated planning costs.
Including an assignable clause in the agreement allows developers to sell the contract to another party, providing multiple exit strategies.
It is crucial to work with a commercial solicitor experienced in option and promotion agreements to ensure the contract is properly structured and protective.
BEST MOMENTS
"You don't need to buy every piece of property that you see, you can just control it."
"An option agreement gives a developer the right but not the obligation to buy land, at a pre-agreed price within a defined time period."
"Your network is your net worth; telling everybody what you're doing is true."
"To be a developer doesn't mean you have to build everything. You can have the planning uplift, you can promote the site, you can package the deal up for another developer."
"Option agreements are just a tool. They don't create the value, the developers create the value because developers are the ones that have the vision."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
In this episode, Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepard dive deep into the delicate dance between high-end aesthetics and healthy profit margins. Drawing from their current "Woodlands" development and past conversion projects, the duo explores why you should never design for yourself, but always for the end buyer.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Target Market is King: Always work backward from your Gross Development Value and target demographic. A luxury apartment in London requires a vastly different specification than a standard rental property.
The "Want" vs. "Need" Philosophy: Developers must distinguish between luxury wants that eat into margins and functional needs that drive sales.
High-Impact Areas: Focus your budget on kitchens and bathrooms, as these are the showy areas where buyers spend the most time and base their emotional purchasing decisions.
Program Efficiency: Choosing materials isn't just about the cost of the item; it’s about how it affects the build schedule. For example, certain flooring types allow other trades to finish their work sooner, saving money on labor and time.
Avoid Over-Personalization: Your personal taste is irrelevant. The goal is to create a move-in-ready feel that appeals to the masses while adding enough warmth through organic colors to stand out from the sea of sterile white and gray.
BEST MOMENTS
"The biggest thing is you're not designing for yourself; you're designing for the end buyer."
"A lot of my guys always say 'Champagne dreams, lemonade money'—it’s easy to want more than you can afford."
"Budget shouldn't drive the design, and design shouldn't drive the budget. It’s about understanding the end use."
"Everything has gone too gray. It's become boring. We need to put some warmth back into our homes."
"People buy on emotion. If you go in and get this amazing feeling from a property because it just looks and feels right, that's the turn-key win."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/
https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3-day live event, Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive -
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron dive deep into the analytical engine of property development: deal appraisal and financial modeling. Moving beyond the excitement of finding a site, the duo breaks down the core components of a professional appraisal, from Gross Development Value (GDV) and build costs to finance fees and section 106 agreements.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
The fundamental goal of an appraisal is to work backward from the GDV, subtracting all costs (build, finance, professional fees, and profit) to determine the maximum price you can pay for the land.
While lenders often look at ‘profit on cost’, developers should also aim for a ‘profit on GDV’ between 23% and 25% (typically equating to 30% on cost) to ensure a healthy buffer.
Always model worst-case scenarios, such as build costs rising by 10% or GDV dropping by 5%, to see if the project remains viable under pressure.
An industry-standard 10% contingency is non-negotiable for most lenders and serves as a vital safety net for unforeseen "abnormals" like moving underground drains or trees.
Presenting a professional "offer pack" with detailed numbers to an agent or vendor builds credibility and justifies why your offer might be lower than the asking price.
BEST MOMENTS
"Property development is a numbers game. This clarity gives you more confidence when you go and make those offers because you come across more credible."
"A spreadsheet is only as good as the data that goes in it. It can't magic answers for you; if you put in bad data, you're going to get bad results."
"Don't get too emotional, this is a business. Keep it simple, stupid."
"I'd rather make an offer that works for you than try to just buy the work."
"The first time you get in a car, you're like, 'How do I do everything?' The more you do [appraisals], the quicker it becomes just like driving."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
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https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
Book your seat now on our 3 day live event Property Developers Bootcamp
https://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/pdblive - Laat meer zien
