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Jonathan and Kieron provide a comprehensive update on the integration of Artificial Intelligence within property development, featuring expert guest Cristina Axford. They detail her journey from developing 360-degree virtual tour software for estate agents to building a robust suite of AI tools designed to streamline the entire property lifecycle. The discussion covers the specific challenges of finding the right AI applications, the strategic value of embracing AI for efficiency, and the realities of building bespoke software for the property sector. KEY TAKEAWAYS Virtual Tours and AI Integration: Cristina's platform, 360 Gurus, utilises specialised 360-degree cameras to capture immersive property tours and automatically generates accurate 2D floor plans using AI, significantly streamlining the onboarding process for estate agents. A Suite of Specialised AI Agents: Beyond virtual tours, Cristina has developed a suite of AI agents tailored for property professionals, including 'Leo' for social media management, 'Ella' for administrative tasks and networking research, 'Lara' for LinkedIn lead generation, and a legal AI for contract review. Overcoming AI Scepticism: While some view AI with hesitation, particularly regarding job security, the hosts and guests emphasise that AI functions as a tool to enhance human efficiency and manage administrative burdens, not as a replacement for human connection or expertise. The Importance of Networking: Highlighting the crucial role of relationship building in property development, Cristina discusses her involvement with 'Hard Hats to Heels', a networking group dedicated to supporting women in the construction and property industries across the South West. BEST MOMENTS "It's just making people's workday more effective. You know, in our specific use case in Gurus, you've got this AI booking agent, and it just saves time, it's as simple as that." "I think learning, being able to learn it... I did see an AI school that kids are being taught AI at school, which I think is good." "There in lies the element of trust, doesn't it, with AI... which has changed over the last year. You know, if you ask somebody 'do you trust the output?', more than [not] they would say generally yes." 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 360 Property Hub: ⁠http://360propertyhub.co.uk⁠ 360 Gurus: ⁠https://360gurus.io⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/stories/cristinaaxford/ Facebook: ⁠https://www.facebook.com/cristina.funkymedia/⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.1979/⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/⁠ ⁠https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73⁠ ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/

Jonathan and Kieron provide a comprehensive project update on their latest major development: Luxstowe House in Liskeard. They detail the acquisition and planning journey behind transforming this 1831 Grade II listed building—which has historical ties to the founders of Barclays Bank—into a 34-apartment residential complex. The discussion covers the specific challenges of listed building planning applications, the strategic value of hosting community open days to dispel local rumors, and the long-term realities of property development timelines. KEY TAKEAWAYS Historical Significance: Luxstowe House is an 1831 Grade II listed manor that served as a World War II staging base, an Italian POW camp, and council chambers before being acquired for residential conversion. Navigating Planning Constraints: The team initially considered Class MA permitted development rights, but the building's listed status and the positioning of a 1980s extension on the same curtilage necessitated a full planning application. Project Scope and Phasing: The development is strategically split into two phases: an initial soft strip and conversion of the modern extension into 22 apartments, followed by the conversion of the historic manor house into 12 apartments. Community Engagement: Hosting a site open day allowed the developers to address wild local rumors, showcase their architectural plans directly to neighbors, and build vital community support for the project. Development Timelines: Property development is a long-term commitment; acquiring the Luxstowe site, navigating the pre-application process, and submitting the full planning application took nearly two years of continuous effort. BEST MOMENTS "It's definitely not get rich quick. It's not something that you're going to get a development that's going to pay you out in 90 days or something like that." "Didn't you tell me he's one of the forerunners of Barclays? ... That's quite cool, knowing that." "Once you put your head above parapet, you might get shot at. But actually, it was really good. It was nice to meet the locals, meet the neighbours." "You've got to go through the journey, haven't you? You know, there are steps and stages to this to make sure you get it right." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/

This week, we revisit one of our older episodes that you may have missed! Jonathan and Kieron unmask the various methods of construction used in property development. They discuss the pros and cons of traditional brick and block construction, highlighting its reliability and buyer perception, while also exploring the growing popularity of timber frame and modular construction methods. They cover essential factors such as cost, timeframes, and the impact of weather on construction processes. ⁠ KEY TAKEAWAYS Choosing the right method of construction is crucial in property development, as it impacts cost, timeframe, saleability, and overall project viability. Common methods include traditional brick and block, timber frame, and modular construction. Brick and block construction is seen as traditional and reliable, offering solid structures with minimal movement. However, it is weather-dependent and can be slower compared to other methods like timber frame. Timber frame construction is gaining popularity due to its speed and efficiency. It allows for quick assembly and can be pre-fabricated in a dry environment, but it requires careful management to avoid issues with moisture and twisting. Effective logistics and site management are essential for successful construction projects. This includes ensuring materials are delivered on time, managing labour effectively, and preparing the site for equipment like cranes. Newer methods such as structural insulated panels (SIPs) and modular construction are being explored for their efficiency and performance. However, they come with their own challenges, including higher costs and the need for careful design and engineering to ensure successful implementation. BEST MOMENTS "The construction method obviously affects a lot of factors: cost, timeframe, finance, and saleability as well." "I think lenders prefer traditional brick and block because it's kind of standard; it's what people expect." "Timber frame seems like the new kid on the block, but probably for 30 years people have been doing it." "You need to make sure that you have the logistics side in there as well with all of these types." "Structural insulated panels are like the high-performance cousins of timber frame." 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.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron discuss the latest housing market announcements from the Labour conference, specifically focusing on the new "Your First Home" scheme for first-time buyers. Before analyzing the policy, they share progress updates on their Saltash development and recap a recent open day at Luxor House in Liskeard, where they proactively engaged with the local community and hosted a live training exercise for the fire department. They then break down the mechanics of the proposed 2.5% deposit and 20% government equity loan, exploring how this Help to Buy successor could stimulate buyer demand and support SME developers building entry-level housing. KEY TAKEAWAYS Control the Narrative: Hosting public open days allows developers to set their own narrative straight from day one, building relationships with neighbors rather than allowing locals to rely on speculation and make-believe stories. Support Local Services: Offering vacant development sites to local fire crews for training is an excellent, practical way to give back to the community and support emergency responders. "Your First Home" Mechanics: The newly proposed scheme targets first-time buyers by allowing a low 2.5% deposit, supplemented by a 20% government-backed equity loan that functions very similarly to the previous Help to Buy initiative. Boost for Entry-Level Housing: A government-backed scheme like this will heavily assist developers building for the entry-level market, helping buyers with average salaries successfully cross the finish line to property ownership. Planning Friction: While stimulating buyer demand is helpful, the government must also focus on making the planning process easier and faster to properly incentivize developers to build the necessary volume of homes. BEST MOMENTS "No, I think that's a good lesson there for people is is be proactive. Um and don't be afraid of meeting the neighbors." "You don't want to be on the back foot and you don't want to be fending off um you know stories and make believe about about your development you want to be just setting it setting it straight from day one." "So this is what they calling it your first home. It's a two and a half percent deposit for again first time buyers. You do get a 20% government backed equity loan..." "So where we're at the entry level of in in our area, um and we've what I would call affordable for people to, you know, with with average salaries to be able to achieve, you know, and purchase a property, this will really help them." 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 Q&A episode, Jonathan and Kieron answer key listener questions covering the core business of property development. They break down how to properly budget for contingencies, how to navigate party walls and neighbour relations as critical project stakeholders, and the mechanics of holding back retentions under JCT contracts.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Maintain a 10% Contingency: While 5% contingency allowances used to be standard, modern lenders and developers should aim for a 10% reserve budget to absorb unforeseen site risks and material cost changes. Proactively Manage Neighbors: Treat neighbours as essential project stakeholders by introducing yourself early, providing dedicated contact details, and clearly communicating boundary or service work to avoid costly disputes. Understand JCT Retentions: Holding back a 3% to 5% retention fee (releasing half at practical completion and the remainder after 6–12 months) ensures contractors complete snagging and rectification work. Align Exit Strategy with Tax Structure: Whether you hold a build-to-rent portfolio in an SPV or sell to build up a cash pot, always work with a property-specialist accountant to protect VAT recovery and minimize tax friction. Establish Clear Scope of Works: Prevent disputes between trades or consultants by creating a clear responsibility matrix, holding trade crossover meetings, and owning mistakes directly when issues arise. BEST MOMENTS "Everyone always spends more than they think they're going to. It's just the nature of the beast."  "Build that relationship... neighbours are a hidden stakeholder. They care, and they can be quite loud if things aren't going their way."  "If you want to build out a good, strong relationship with your main contractor, be open with those sort of things and be forthcoming—don't wait for them to ask."  "At this level, you want to specialise. You don't just want general advice... you want a property tax specialist."  "If you have cocked up somewhere or made a mistake, just own it and provide a solution rather than trying to hide it." 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 and Kieron dive deep into the often-overlooked world of property development waste management. Highlighting the surprising statistics around construction waste in the UK, where the sector accounts for over 60% of total waste generated, Jonathan and Kieron explore practical strategies for reducing landfill reliance, lowering project costs, and maintaining regulatory compliance. KEY TAKEAWAYS Construction Drives the UK Waste Stream: Construction, demolition, and excavation generate approximately 62% of all UK waste and contribute over 30% of total waste sent to landfills. Segregation Saves Money: Separating light packaging, cardboard, and plastics prevents filling expensive skips with empty voids, significantly lowering disposal costs. Compliance is Non-Negotiable: Moving waste off-site requires a registered Waste Carrier License and signed Waste Transfer Notes to maintain proper duty-of-care records. Crushed Aggregates Require Notification: Repurposing crushed concrete or importing recycled aggregates can halve material costs, but you must notify the Environment Agency to legally reclassify the material from "waste" to a structural product. Beware of "As Dug" Topsoil: Purchasing unscreened "as dug" soil carries major risks, including dormant Japanese knotweed or hidden contaminants, making soil certification and testing critical before bringing material on-site. BEST MOMENTS "If you can manage your waste correctly, it's good for the environment, it's good for all of us, but also it saves pennies. You can save money." "You're borrowing money from a bank to then throw it in the bin. It seems mad!"  "If we run a job very lean and very tight on the waste side, we can probably regain ourselves about another 5% to 10%."  "Until we notify the Environment Agency that we're using that as a product... it is still waste. So make sure you're doing the paperwork."  "Reuse, reduce, and recycle—they're the main things, and it all saves money."  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/ 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

In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron detail the property handover process, focusing on the creation and management of Operations and Maintenance (O&M) manuals. They outline the critical documentation developers must provide to buyers to ensure long-term building health, compliance, and ease of maintenance. KEY TAKEAWAYS The Purpose of O&M Manuals: Main contractors are contractually obligated to provide developers with an O&M manual that explains exactly how a building was constructed. Required Documentation: A complete manual must contain building control plans, fire procedures, mechanical and electrical (M&E) layouts, and Energy Performance Certificates (EPCs). Material and Maintenance Data: Developers need to include data sheets detailing how to clean and maintain specific products, alongside records of the exact paint colors and flooring materials used. BEST MOMENTS "As a developer typically... you've got a main contractor who's doing all the work, they would give you the O&M manual of how they've built the building." "Every product you put or purchase should have a data sheet... and within the data sheet it should tell you how to maintain it." "If you're doing a conversion... an O&M folder is brilliant because you know exactly how that building was made up, where they've cut windows in, where there's steels." "Don't leave it till the last minute, I think that's one of our key messages." 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

Jonathan and Kieron dissect the Prime Minister's pledge to combat "cowboy builders" and the proposed government-run escrow portal designed to protect £10 billion in lost industry funds. Instead of relying on slow bureaucratic systems, they outline practical ways to use JCT contracts and independent surveyors to securely manage project capital and protect both contractors and clients. KEY TAKEAWAYS Redefining the Problem: The industry term "cowboy builder" often masks the reality of deliberate fraud. The property sector suffers equally from deceptive contractors and rogue clients intentionally withholding payments. Government Overreach: While a central portal holding project funds in escrow sounds ideal, placing this massive administrative burden on the government risks severe payment bottlenecks and bureaucratic mismanagement. Utilize Existing Protections: Developers do not need a new government system to stay safe. Standard JCT contracts combined with independent contract administrators or quantity surveyors (QS) already provide robust, milestone-based payment security. Mutual Due Diligence: Trust goes both ways. Clients must verify a contractor's past work and licenses, while builders should request proof of funds before breaking ground on any major project. BEST MOMENTS "I don't like the saying 'cowboy builder'... these are con people, con men. This is a fraudster." "The government do not need to see the transaction of money in jobs. I just don't think they do." "If you're asking me to do the work, fine, show me the money. Show me that you can afford to do it." "We all got to take responsibility for our actions effectively... Don't let yourself be duped." 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 of the Property Developers Playbook, Kieron and Jonathan dive into a Q&A format, addressing key questions from their listeners about property development. They discuss the importance of contingencies in development finance, emphasising the need for a reserve fund to cover unforeseen costs. KEY TAKEAWAYS Contingency Planning: Developers should factor in a contingency of 10% for build costs to cover unforeseen expenses. This reserve acts as a safety net for unexpected costs or changes during the development process. Importance of Neighbour Relations: Building good relationships with neighbours is crucial in property development. Early communication, such as introducing oneself and providing contact information, can help mitigate complaints and foster a cooperative environment. Retention in Contracts: Developers typically hold back a percentage (usually around 3-5%) of payments to contractors as retention. This serves as a safeguard to ensure that any issues or incomplete work can be addressed after practical completion. BEST MOMENTS "Typically 5-10% of whatever your build costs are, more on the 10% side. I think the 5% days are long gone." "You should always start from day one building that relationship with your neighbours. It's all about relationships." "If contingencies aren't enough that you've allowed for and things are still going over, you've got to value engineer it always anyway." 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, Kieron and Jonathan give an update on their latest development projects before diving deep into the art of presentation in property development. They discuss how you present yourself, your offer proposals, and your deal opportunities can make or break a deal with vendors, estate agents, and investors. KEY TAKEAWAYS Avoid Flippant Email Offers: Simply emailing a single cash figure without context or backing comes across as throwaway and lacks substance.  Offer Multiple Options and Total Transparency: Including several purchase options along with clear conditions helps validate your price and manage risk. Keep Investor Packs Focused: Investors want to know their money is secure, how risks are mitigated, and what returns to expect.  You Are the Main Selling Point: Authenticity and personal integrity are crucial. Trying to pitch a persona you aren't won't hold up under scrutiny, so align your personal behavior and social media presence with the professional image you project. Build Relationships Over Multiple Touchpoints: Deals are rarely closed on a document alone. Scheduling coffee meetings, site walkthroughs, and lunches builds the essential "know, like, and trust" factor required for long-term success. BEST MOMENTS "People buy into people. Especially the more AI comes into it, I think relationships—the way we communicate with each other—it's a huge thing."  "Don't just send an email saying 'here's our offer' of £450k with no context... that has no substance, and that's how it's going to be received."  "If you're honest with yourself... if you try to pitch a lie or try to be someone you're not too much, that's going to show. People can read that straight away."  "You're not going to get a confirmed decision from the investor pack. All it is is an opportunity to have a sit down and chat about it."  "Keep calm, trust your numbers, trust your process, and don't put too much pressure on yourself."  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 and Kieron sit down with residential interior designer Tanith McKenzie to unpack the vital role interior design plays in profitable property development. Tanith clears up the misconception between basic interior styling and structural interior architecture, highlighting why developers need design input during the blueprint phase rather than after first fix.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Involve Designers at the Blueprint Stage: Bringing an interior designer on board during architectural planning prevents costly site re-works, such as poorly placed radiators, awkward light switch configurations, or blocked window treatments. Interior Design vs. Interior Styling: True interior design goes beyond choosing cushions and paint colours; it covers spatial flow, reflected ceiling plans (RCPs), electrical and plumbing layouts, and functional daily living needs. Streamline Delivery with Consolidation Centers: Storing procured furnishings at a consolidation center ensures items are pre-inspected for damage (e.g., smashed mirrors), insured, and delivered in a single white-glove installation pass with zero site packaging waste left behind. Invest in Daily High-Touch Points: Perceived luxury doesn't require a blowout budget. Spending on tactile features such as solid-weight doors, quality ironmongery, premium tapware, and dimmable, layered lighting instantly elevates a home's appeal. Say Goodbye to All-Grey and All-White Spaces: Market trends are shifting away from cold, clinical grey or plain white interiors toward warmer, timeless neutral tones and natural textures that make a home feel inviting and lived-in. BEST MOMENTS "I put a plaster on my daughter, it doesn't make me a doctor... so leave my profession alone!" "I like to be involved right from the get-go... I'm trying to get inside your head essentially and ask, 'How are you going to live in this house?'" "You shouldn't have any first-world problems when you're renovating or building a home and spending all this money." "Anything that has got high traffic and that ultimately you are touching on a day-to-day basis, you need to be spending money on." "I think lighting and layering is such a missed opportunity to bring a real area of luxury." 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.tanithmckenzie.com/⁠ Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/tanith_mckenzie/⁠ 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 and Kieron dive deep into the hidden hazards lurking beneath property development sites. From soil contamination and historical land usage to invasive plant species like Japanese knotweed, they break down why a clean-looking plot can often be deceiving.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Looks Can Be Deceiving: A site may appear flat, clean, and ready for construction, but historical uses can leave behind hidden contaminants like heavy metals and oil. 150% Land Remediation Tax Relief: Developers cleaning up qualifying contaminated land can claim 150% tax relief on remediation costs to offset future tax liabilities. Invasive Species Threaten Mortgages: Invasive plants like Japanese knotweed feature aggressive root systems that can threaten building integrity, cause severe lender/mortgage issues, and require certified long-term remediation. Ecological Constraints Impact Timelines: Seasonality and protected wildlife can halt development work for months, making early ecological reports vital. Use Site Constraints in Offer Negotiations: Uncovering ground issues during the evaluation phase enables developers to factor remediation costs into their financial appraisals and negotiate a lower purchase price. BEST MOMENTS "Looks can be deceiving... when it comes to development, it's exactly the same: don't believe everything you see when you see a piece of land or a building." "You can use these things as actually a good buying tool... if you're prepared to sort of wait and play the game a little bit, there is actually something you can do."  "These are things that can't be bodged... You've got to deal with this properly. It has to be the paperwork trail—it's understanding where these contaminants and waste go, where they're treated."  "Budget for the unknown. You will have a contingency, but if you can identify these constraints... while you're doing your evaluation phase of the project, it'll help with the negotiations."  "Don't let it put you off at all. You will learn over time what to spot, how to deal with it, and costs associated with it... just make sure one of the key people in your team has that knowledge already." 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, Kieron flies solo while co-host Jonathan takes a break to deliver an honest, candid look at the uncomfortable reality of property development: failed deals, lost capital, and unexpected setbacks. Kieron shares behind-the-scenes stories from his own portfolio, including a promising five-house development that unraveled due to planning restrictions and a high-margin site he had to walk away from when investors capped their funding.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Setbacks Are Tuition, Not Failure: Losing time, energy, or money on a deal isn't a personal failure; it's an essential part of the learning curve that shapes a sharper developer. Stick Strictly to Your Numbers: Never inflate Gross Development Value (GDV) or squeeze contingency buffers just to make an unprofitable deal look viable on paper. Avoid Emotional Attachment: Falling in love with a site design or layout clouds objective decision-making; development must remain a disciplined, factual process. Verify Planning Constraints Early: Always conduct independent due diligence on planning permissions and redline boundaries rather than relying solely on third-party assumptions. Know When to Walk Away: Whether due to tight timelines, investor limits, or changing market conditions, having the discipline to say "no" saves you from catastrophic losses down the line. BEST MOMENTS "Don't see this as a failure... it's all learning." "The deal you lose makes room for the one you were actually supposed to do." "Property development isn't about winning every deal; it's about surviving long enough to win the right ones." "If it doesn't work, it doesn't work... don't try to make the deal work." "You've got to brush yourself off, get back on the horse, and just go again." 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 dive discuss the essential skill of evaluating and filtering property development leads. For new and scaling developers alike, it is easy to fall into the trap of "shiny penny syndrome," treating every incoming lead like a goldmine. KEY TAKEAWAYS Filter Fast to Protect Your Time: New developers often jump at every opportunity, but early disqualification is key. Running leads through personal criteria early prevents wasting weeks on non-viable sites. Profit is Made at the Buy: Always calculate your Gross Development Value (GDV) and subtract your profit margin and build costs first to establish the maximum purchase price. Never work backward from an agent's or vendor's asking price. Build a Diverse Sourcing Network: High-value leads come from establishing long-term relationships with land agents, commercial brokers, architects, local builders, and direct-to-vendor outreach. Identify Vendor Motivations: Whether a seller needs a fast exit to repay lending or is open to a Joint Venture (JV), understanding their pain points enables creative, win-win deal structuring. Align Leads with Strategy: Spreading risk across multi-unit developments or commercial conversions offers economies of scale, better tax rates, and greater control over the surrounding site environment compared to single residential flips. BEST MOMENTS "Not every deal is a deal." "The more you progress in your career as a property developer, you will hone your filters." "You make your money when you buy." "It's a marathon, not a sprint. It's not a get-rich-quick scheme... it's a get-rich-slow scheme." "Your success as a developer isn't measured by how many leads you receive; it's by what you buy and what makes profit in the long run." 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 special solo episode of the Property Developers Playbook, Jonathan Stobbs takes the mic to share some candid, actionable advice for developers and business owners at every stage of their journey. While Kieron's away, Jonathan breaks down three critical mindset shifts required to thrive in the demanding world of property.  KEY TAKEAWAYS Delegate to Elevate: You cannot and should not try to do everything yourself. Building a reliable "power team" of architects, planning consultants, brokers, and mentors is essential to maximising your 24 hours. Avoid the Comparison Trap: Comparing your starting point to someone else's highlight reel is a quick way to become demoralised. Stay focused on your unique journey and timeline. Social Media is an Illusion: The flashy cars and completed projects posted online rarely show the reality of property development journey. You aren't seeing the sleepless nights, planning refusals, construction delays, and cash flow pressures that precede the success. Beat Overwhelm with the "Next Step": When a project feels too massive to handle, stop looking at the entire mountain. Break the problem down, delegate what you can, and focus solely on the very next action required. Consistent Action Creates Momentum: Small, consistent wins like attending a single networking event, calling a commercial agent, or analysing one site compounded over time builds the foundation of a successful development business. BEST MOMENTS "People comparing themselves to others is basically comparing your chapter one to someone else's chapter 20. You have no idea where they are in their journey..." "Every master was once a disaster, and it just takes that consistent action to be able to get there." "What we don’t see [on social media] is all the struggles, all the planning refusals, delays, construction delays, sleepless nights, cash flow pressures, mistakes they’ve made." "Our mind is the biggest soap opera writer ever, and we just need to focus on the facts rather than worrying about all the different what-if scenarios." "Focus on the next step, not the next hundred." 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