Bridging & Commercial: "Property is not for the Faint-Hearted"

Property Is Not for the Faint-Hearted”: Supporting the Next Generation of Property Developers

We recently sat down with Bridging & Commercial Magazine journalist Dhuha Al-Zaidi and a group of industry experts to discuss the current landscape for young and aspiring property developers. The roundtable featured several members of our Tomorrow’s Developer Network, a platform we launched in 2021 to support the next generation of SME housebuilders and residential property investors.

As featured in the article “Property is Not for the Faint-Hearted”, the discussion highlighted the many challenges facing first-time developers, from planning delays and rising costs to under-resourced local authorities and shifting regulations. But it also emphasised the role experienced voices can play in guiding emerging talent through uncertain times.

“It’s hard enough for seasoned developers, imagine being in your twenties trying to build your first site,” said Andrew Argent, Senior Business Development Manager and host of the session.

What Is the Tomorrow’s Developer Network?

The Tomorrow’s Developer Network was created to offer early-stage developers and property entrepreneurs access to educational resources, industry insight, and mentorship. Our goal is simple: help remove barriers to entry, build long-term relationships, and support the next generation in becoming successful, sustainable developers.

To date, we’ve hosted 12 events across the UK, with audiences ranging from 40–70 attendees in our early stages. More recently, we’ve shifted to a smaller, more personalised format, welcoming 10–12 developers to create a tailored and collaborative learning environment.

Topics regularly covered include:
•Navigating planning policy and delays
•Accessing development finance and equity
•Understanding land acquisition and auctions
•Building resilient business models in a volatile market

Highlights from the Roundtable Discussion

Held in partnership with Bridging & Commercial, this latest roundtable included experienced property professionals alongside members of our developer network. Guests included:

•Stuart Flynn & Steve Williams, co-founders of Redgate Specialist Finance
•Philip Clarke, Managing Director of Fisher Property Solutions
•Alex & Oliver Boggis, co-founders of Moon Tree Capital
•Cameron Jeromson, MD of LifeBase
•Jevy Umali, QS at Cosy Hauz
•Karine Kerlew, Real Estate Solicitor at Browne Jacobson

Together, they discussed how policy instability, construction cost inflation, and planning bottlenecks continue to slow the pace of delivery, particularly for SME developers trying to bring small-scale schemes to market.

Yet, despite the headwinds, there was optimism in the room. With targeted mentorship, access to tailored finance, and a more joined-up approach between public and private stakeholders, young developers can still thrive.

“Property is not for the faint-hearted,” said one speaker, a sentiment echoed around the table, but also a reminder of the resilience and creativity this sector is known for.

Why This Matters for the Future of Property Development

If the UK is to meet its housing targets and build more sustainable, locally-led communities, it must actively support emerging developers, not just the larger players. That means:
•Improving access to flexible development finance
•Providing clear, consistent planning pathways
•Promoting mentorship and practical industry education
•Reducing barriers to entry for underrepresented groups

At Close Brothers Property Finance, we’re proud to play a part in that ecosystem by funding early-stage developers, facilitating industry dialogue, and providing platforms like Tomorrow’s Developer, to nurture the next generation of talent.

Want To Get Involved?

If you’re an early-stage housebuilder, aspiring developer, or investor looking for finance, mentorship or access to experienced professionals, we’d love to hear from you.  

Find out more here Tomorrow's Developer | Close Brothers Property Finance