Development finance for property and construction projects
Property development projects - whether a ground-up build, a conversion, or a substantial refurbishment - require funding structured around the build process itself, typically released in stages as work progresses. Getting this right requires both the right lender and a realistic understanding of costs, timescales and exit routes.
Quick overview
Used for
Development finance is used to fund ground-up construction, property conversions, change-of-use projects, and substantial refurbishments. It typically covers both the cost of the land or existing building and the build costs, released in stages as the project progresses.
Suitable for
Suitable for experienced developers, builders, and investors undertaking projects of meaningful scale, as well as those taking on their first development with a credible plan, professional team, and realistic budget.
Clearpath works with developers, builders and investors to structure development finance around the specifics of the project, comparing lenders who understand the type of scheme, the location, and the route to completion and sale or refinance.
Typical benefits
- Funding structured around the build process, with drawdowns released in stages as work progresses
- Access to lenders experienced in assessing development appraisals, build costs, and exit strategies
- Support in presenting your project clearly, including costings, timescales, and planning status
- Can often be arranged alongside, or transition into, other facilities such as bridging or commercial mortgages
Key considerations
- Lenders will want to see a realistic appraisal covering costs, timescales, planning status, and your exit route - whether sale or refinance
- Your experience, and that of your professional team (architects, contractors, project managers), is often a key part of how lenders assess the proposal
- Funds are typically released in stages, with monitoring surveyors checking progress before each drawdown
- It's worth building realistic contingency into your figures - lenders generally expect to see this reflected in the appraisal
Clear advice on development finance, from first call to completion
Whole-of-market comparison
We compare development finance across our panel of mainstream and specialist lenders to find options that genuinely fit your circumstances.
Plain-English guidance
We explain the costs, terms and trade-offs clearly, so you can make a confident, informed decision without the jargon.
A managed process
We prepare your case, liaise with lenders and keep you updated throughout - so you can stay focused on running your business.
Common questions about development finance
Not necessarily, though your experience - and that of your wider team - will be a factor in how lenders assess the proposal. Some lenders are more comfortable supporting first-time developers, particularly where the project is realistically scoped and supported by an experienced professional team. We'll help match your situation to lenders likely to be receptive.
You might also consider
Many businesses use a combination of finance types depending on what they're trying to achieve.
Talk to Clearpath about development finance
Call for a clear, no-obligation conversation about whether development finance is the right route - and what's realistically available to you.