Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 1: Finding Sites

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron kick off a new mini-series on the top 10 challenges in property development. They discuss the most critical step in any development project: finding a viable site. Jonathan and Kieron share their personal experiences, including a recent success with a commercial-to-residential conversion, and emphasise the importance of due diligence, networking, and creativity in the search for a new project.

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KEY TAKEAWAYS

This episode introduces a new mini-series focusing on the biggest pain points for property developers, starting with finding the right site.

Jonathan and Kieron discuss the pros and cons of finding sites through traditional on-market channels like Rightmove versus off-market methods like direct-to-vendor marketing.

The importance of building relationships with people beyond commercial agents, including accountants, planning consultants, and architects, is highlighted.

Jonathan and Kieron discuss the value of looking at a site with a different perspective, giving the example of a concrete car park that was re-imagined as residential flats.

BEST MOMENTS

"No deal, no development, basically."

"That's the agent's dream, isn't it? They get a site, they send it out to a few of their preferred clients, and someone comes back with an offer, and they can go back to the client and say we've already got you offers and it hasn't even gone to market."

"You always hear these stories about people who get their valuations back and they've been down-valued, and clearly they've been too optimistic in their expectations."

"Don't think you're bugging [the agents] until they tell you you're bugging them."

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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