Épisodes

  • Your Pathway to Success with the Property Developers Bootcamp

    Your Pathway to Success with the Property Developers Bootcamp
    Dec 8 2025
    In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron unveil an exciting new initiative: their upcoming Property Developers Bootcamp. Drawing from the feedback received over 28 episodes, they address the common challenges faced by aspiring property developers, such as lack of confidence, knowledge of the industry, and the importance of building a reliable team. The bootcamp aims to provide a structured, hands-on learning experience, offering attendees a clear roadmap to navigate the complexities of property development. KEY TAKEAWAYS Success in property development relies heavily on building a strong team, including architects, planners, contractors, and solicitors. Collaboration and support from experienced professionals can help newcomers navigate the complexities of the industry. A new bootcamp is being introduced to provide hands-on education for aspiring property developers. This program aims to offer a clear roadmap, practical experiences, and networking opportunities to help participants gain confidence and take their first steps in property development. The bootcamp will cover a structured seven-step formula for property development, including site discovery, evaluation, viability assessment, legal engagement, financing, optimisation, and profit management. This comprehensive approach is designed to equip attendees with the necessary skills and knowledge. Many potential developers face fears and uncertainties about starting their journey. The bootcamp aims to address these concerns by providing a supportive environment where participants can learn from real developers and gain insights into overcoming common obstacles. The bootcamp emphasises the importance of networking, allowing attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, potential investors, and industry professionals. Building relationships in this environment can lead to joint ventures and collaborative opportunities in the future. BEST MOMENTS "Property development is a team sport. You need to have people around you who can share the same vision and support program effectively to help you get there." "The bootcamp gives them a clear roadmap, hands-on learning, and case studies to build confidence and take the first step into property development." "It's about building that confidence that anyone can do this. If you want to put your mind to it and are willing to put the work in, anyone can do it." "You don't have to have all the money in the world to be able to do it. Any business goes and raises money, and you're just doing this in property development." "The A-team, or A-teams are built in training, not on game day. Developers are no different." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ BOOK NOW - http://www.propertydevelopersiq.co.uk/
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    34 min
  • Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 8: Design, Sustainability & Value Engineering

    Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 8: Design, Sustainability & Value Engineering
    Dec 1 2025
    In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron delve into the top challenges faced by property developers, focusing on the critical themes of design, sustainability, and value engineering: Building Smart, Not Expensive. They discuss the importance of balancing aesthetic appeal with budget constraints, emphasising the need for effective collaboration between architects and contractors from the outset. KEY TAKEAWAYS Design and Budget Alignment: Property developers must ensure that architectural designs align with budget constraints from the very beginning. Collaboration with Architects and Contractors: Developers should involve architects and main contractors in discussions about design and materials early on. Value Engineering: Value engineering is about optimising design choices to enhance value without compromising quality. It involves making informed decisions about materials and construction methods that can save costs while still meeting design and sustainability goals. Understanding Market Needs: Developers must be aware of the target market and design properties that meet the needs and preferences of potential buyers. Sustainability Considerations: As building regulations evolve towards sustainability, developers need to incorporate energy-efficient systems and materials into their designs. BEST MOMENTS "Over-design, the silent profit killer. Architects often design for beauty, not budget. Designing for their own portfolios, their own ego." "Value engineering isn't downgrading. It's optimising and making the best use of what you've got." "Good design adds value. Overdesign destroys profit." "You need to be that person who is orchestrating, bringing a QS with you to maybe have a sit-down as we do." "Every line on a drawing either adds value or adds cost; your job is to know the difference." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
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    47 min
  • Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 7: Project Management & Delivery

    Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 7: Project Management & Delivery
    Nov 24 2025
    In this episode of the Property Developer's Playbook Mini Series on the Top 10 Challenges in Property Development, Jonathan and Kieron dive into the critical challenge that distinguishes successful developers: Project Management and Delivery: Running the Site, Not Letting It Run You. They emphasise that even the best contracts and systems are useless if people don't communicate effectively, noting that poor coordination is the main reason most projects fail. KEY TAKEAWAYS Communication is the Biggest Hurdle: Poor coordination and communication, not bad sites or bad deals, are the primary reasons why most property development projects fall apart. The Program is Fundamental: You should never start a construction project without a clear program (Gantt chart), as having "No program equals no control" over time, costs, and resources. It is beneficial to prepare both an internal working program and a client program. Clearly Define Roles & Accountability: Every team member's roles and responsibilities must be defined early in a simple format, like a RACI matrix (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed), to prevent a "blame loop". Document Everything (Especially Variations): Use central, cloud-based systems (like Google Drive or Dropbox) for document control to ensure the entire team is working from the correct and latest version of the drawings. Verbal agreements on variations must be immediately documented and priced to prevent disputes. Manage Subcontractor Relationships: Keep subcontractors happy by paying promptly and sharing the project program with them, as this gives them sight of the plan and helps them manage their own work schedule, ultimately preventing costly delays. BEST MOMENTS "The truth is, the best systems and contracts mean nothing if the people don't communicate." "If you're already at the blame game point, you've all failed." "According to McKinsey Global Institute, large construction projects take 20% longer to complete and run up to 80% over budget... largely due to poor project management and coordination." "The whole idea of the program is to make sure that everything doesn't clash. Trades don't overlap, deliveries aren't missed, and the long lead times aren't forgotten on products." "If you don't run the site, the site will run you." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
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    34 min
  • Contracts, Clauses & Caution: Legal Tips From a Commercial Property Solicitor

    Contracts, Clauses & Caution: Legal Tips From a Commercial Property Solicitor
    Nov 17 2025
    In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron sit down for an interview with Jo Morgan, a partner at Coodes Solicitors, Head of their commercial property development department. Jo shares her insights on the critical legal aspects of property development, emphasising the importance of thorough due diligence and the potential pitfalls developers often encounter. They covers essential topics such as the significance of heads of terms, the necessity of bespoke contracts, and the common legal mistakes that can derail projects. KEY TAKEAWAYS Developers should conduct thorough due diligence on services and access before committing to a deal. This includes checking utility searches and understanding the implications of planning conditions. Establishing clear heads of terms is crucial. It helps streamline negotiations and ensures that all parties are on the same page regarding the terms of the deal, preventing costly delays and misunderstandings later on. Engaging a solicitor who specialises in property development is essential. They bring valuable local knowledge and expertise that can help navigate complex legal issues and avoid potential pitfalls. Contracts should be detailed and precise to avoid ambiguity. Developers must pay close attention to clauses related to deposits, best endeavours, and timing to ensure they can meet their obligations and avoid disputes. Maintaining good relationships with sellers and other parties involved in the deal can be beneficial. Trust can influence negotiations and lead to smoother transactions, as sellers may prefer working with developers they trust over those offering the highest bid. BEST MOMENTS "Most of my clients would say to me, Jo, can you just make it as simple as possible? But the reality is you want to be able to rely upon the detail of it." "We know legal and compliance can make or break a project. So today we're here going to dig into what developers need to know before signing anything." "If there's been long, difficult negotiations to get to heads of terms, that's usually a red flag. A difficult seller can end up cost spiralling." "When it comes to heads of terms, converting that into a legal contract does seem to overcomplicate things from a layman's point of view." "Always check your plan. I've seen the red line go far beyond what the seller actually owns, which can be problematic." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/ https://coodes.co.uk/profile/jo-morgan/
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    52 min
  • Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 6: Legal and Compliance Risks

    Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 6: Legal and Compliance Risks
    Nov 10 2025
    Jonathan and Kieron dive into one of the most critical, yet often underestimated, parts of development: legal and compliance risks. They note that every deal starts and ends with legals, and most project issues can be traced back to legal matters that weren't spotted early enough. This episode covers crucial areas like title issues, restrictive covenants, ransom strips, overage clauses, and the importance of thorough due diligence. KEY TAKEAWAYS In the high-risk, high-reward world of property development, the money is made in the margins, but it is protected in the paperwork. Every deal starts and ends with legal work, from due diligence to sales. Thorough due diligence is crucial to spot title issues like restrictive covenants, ransom strips, rights of way, easements, and heritage building restrictions, which can severely limit or complicate a project. Legal processes cannot be rushed; do things 'right' rather than 'right now'. Legal and regulatory delays are among the top three reasons UK development projects overrun. Developers must understand the implications of Stamp Duty Land Tax, VAT on construction (including the 0% rate for new builds and 5% for conversions), and setting up the correct company structure (SPVs, holding companies) for optimal tax savings and legal protection. Stay updated on the Building Safety Act, CDM regulations, and evolving sustainability requirements like EPC standards and Net Zero designs, as these significantly affect design, materials, and overall project cost and accountability. BEST MOMENTS "In property development, the money's made in the margins, but it's protected in the paperwork." "Most project issues trace back to something legal that wasn't spotted early enough." "If you get hurdles, it's looking at different routes, discussing with people who can help you come up with solutions. Think outside the box." "A good commercial solicitor is seeing ten different other things or scenarios that we haven't even thought of... and that's ultimately what a really good commercial solicitor is meant to do." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
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    27 min
  • Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 5: Market Risks

    Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 5: Market Risks
    Nov 3 2025
    Today, Jonathan and Kieron take a look at the critical topic of market risk in property development. They discuss how economic changes, interest rate fluctuations, and local market shifts can significantly impact profitability for developers. The duo emphasises the importance of proactive planning and exploring multiple exit strategies to mitigate risks. KEY TAKEAWAYS Market risk in property development is influenced by economic changes, interest rates, and local market shifts. Developers cannot control these factors but can plan for them to mitigate their impact on profitability. Conducting thorough research on comparables, absorption rates, and local market conditions is crucial. Developers should avoid assumptions about demand and ensure they understand the target market before proceeding with projects. Developers should consider multiple exit strategies, such as build-to-sell, build-to-rent, or tenant buyer options. This flexibility allows for better adaptation to changing market conditions and helps manage cash flow effectively. It is essential to stress test financial projections, including sales values and construction costs, to prepare for worst-case scenarios. Maintaining a working capital pot can provide liquidity to navigate unexpected challenges. Establishing and maintaining strong relationships with brokers, agents, and investors is vital. Open communication and transparency about market conditions and project status can lead to better collaboration and support during uncertain times. BEST MOMENTS "Market risk rewards those who plan for the worst and build for the best." "The best developers understand you can't eliminate the risk, but you can at least plan for it." "You need to know how to pivot, but we're going to be talking about how to plan best and a few little pointers." "You can't control the market, but you can control your response and how you react to it." "One of the biggest mistakes is assuming demand without checking real comparables and absorption rates." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
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    27 min
  • Inside the Planning Process: Insights from an Ex Local Authority Planning Officer

    Inside the Planning Process: Insights from an Ex Local Authority Planning Officer
    Oct 27 2025
    Today, Jonathan and Kieron interview Rebecca Boyde, an ex-local authority planning officer turned consultant, shares her insights into the often complex and frustrating world of property development and planning. With a focus on the challenges developers face, Rebecca discusses the importance of having the right team in place, the necessity of engaging with local communities, and the pitfalls of cutting corners in the planning process. KEY TAKEAWAYS Having the right professionals around the table is crucial for successful planning applications. This includes not just architects but also planning consultants, ecologists, and other specialists relevant to the project. Engaging with the local community early in the planning process can significantly impact the outcome of applications. Listening to community concerns and addressing them can help build relationships and reduce opposition. Developers need to be educated about the planning system and its complexities. Failing to follow proper procedures can lead to costly enforcement actions and delays. Conducting pre-application discussions with local authorities can help clarify potential issues and streamline the application process. This proactive approach can save time and resources. New developers should be aware that property development is not an easy path to quick profits. It requires persistence, resilience, and a willingness to learn from failures, as not every application will be successful. BEST MOMENTS "It's about being educated about it and understanding what can happen if you don't follow it. It can be so much worse, the benefits of it massively outweigh not doing it." "My first one is not having the right people around the table. My biggest pate is hiring an architect to do a planning consultant's job." "If you don't do a pre-app, they won't discuss the application with you. You'll just get a refusal." "People come into it because people think it's easy. That is not the reality. And I think people need to be educated." GUEST LINKS https://ctcplanning.co.uk/ www.instagram.com/ctcplanning/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-boyde-92561626/ 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
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    1 h et 4 min
  • Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 4: Planning Risks

    Top 10 Challenges in Property Development - Part 4: Planning Risks
    Oct 19 2025
    In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron take a look at one of the most challenging aspects of property development: planning permission and the associated regulations. They discuss the frustrations developers face when navigating the complexities of planning applications, including the impact of local authorities, ecological considerations, and the often lengthy approval processes. KEY TAKEAWAYS Navigating the planning process is one of the toughest aspects of property development due to its unpredictability and the various hurdles developers face, such as local regulations and community opposition. Conducting thorough due diligence before purchasing land is crucial. This includes understanding local plans, policy contexts, and planning history, as well as consulting with planning professionals. Having the right team in place, including planning consultants and architects, is essential. They should be knowledgeable and proactive in finding solutions rather than presenting obstacles. Development is often a delayed gratification process. Developers need to be patient and resilient, as planning applications can take months or even years to be approved. Engaging with local communities early in the planning process can help mitigate opposition and improve project outcomes. Public consultations and transparency about contributions to the community can foster goodwill. BEST MOMENTS "You must hold planning title, i.e. planning permission to do any kind of development on it." "It's just taken way out, it's just too far, it's just crazy." "You need to figure a different way out, all because of bats." "You want someone who's coming up with solutions, not brick walls." "Planning is one of the toughest parts of development because it's unpredictable." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/
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    30 min