there are many properties around that could be updated or simply knocked down and newly built, but often they are not in a good location – and if they are they are never offered to market at the right price.  And of course until recently there were too many amateur developers jumping in to a spiraling market. When looking to start your own business in this or any other branch, you should check here the new paystubs generator.

But…  finding a development in the right location at the right price is not so simple…

It’s like looking for a PS3 on Christmas eve eve.  Nigh on impossible.  Everyone wants one and if there is still one sitting on the shelf – the price tag is high.

And finding your first development is the hardest.  Yet persistence gets you everywhere.

As with your favourite things – find a good supplier, try to secure a good price and if possible buy when no one else is buying.  Most importantly follow through with what you say you will do and remain consistent. Let your supplier know you will be back for repeat business and as such he should keep you updated with the latest offers.

Alternatively – find a different angle – learn how to stand out from the crowd.

And then hope there is a little bit of luck on your side … but only ever take a calculated risk.

My first new build development came from a estate agent who had watched me consistently buy family homes in the area; he knew I was an interior designer and he knew the finished product was always stylish and always sold quickly and at a good price.

A bungalow on a double plot became available.   I had made an enquiry to the agent, but it was a probate – the legalities held it back from the market for a few months and during that period a “chancing” developer went direct to the sellers with a high offer thinking he could squeeze three terraced homes on the site.  Three months later the offer fell through  –  and it was back with the agent.

The agent had three offers including two other developers.  He recommended me – because I said I was going to retain the existing property and just develop out the side plot with a single good quality family home. The beneficiaries of the estate had grown up in the house, so they took his advice and went for my offer.  And a little luck was on my side – as the property market was starting to decline so confidence was waning….

Of course I was buying without planning – this always has an element of risk, but I had done as much homework as I could – speaking with the planners prior to acquisition – getting them out to site – and getting a nod of approval for my intentions.  And most importantly, the property although was in need of renovation, was still rentable.

As worst-case scenario – if planning was not granted the site could be renovated and sold on.

So the price was right; my location was good – in an area which has some of the best state schools in England; with a shortage of good-sized family homes; within good commuting distance to central London and close by to Richmond Park…

Jane