Development finance guide
Development finance for first-time developers
First-time developers may still be reviewed, but lender appetite usually depends on project strength, contribution and professional support.
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What lenders may focus on
Lenders may review the site, planning, build costs, GDV, borrower contribution, contractor, professional team, contingency, exit route and any relevant experience.
If the borrower has not developed before, a strong team and simpler project can become more important.
Documents that help
Useful documents include planning details, cost plan, schedule of works, valuation, GDV evidence, CV or experience summary, contractor details and exit plan.
A clear contingency and realistic timeline can make the project easier to assess.
When bridging may be more relevant
If the work is mainly refurbishment or the project is not a ground-up development, bridging finance may be reviewed instead.
How Jolt makes the next step easier
You do not need to know the perfect lender before making an enquiry. Jolt looks at the purpose, timing and evidence, then helps aim the case at a realistic funding route.
Start with the amount, what the money is for and how quickly it is needed. If the route is not obvious, Jolt can still review the enquiry and explain the clearest next step.
Development finance for first-time developers FAQs
Can first-time developers get development finance?
Some may be reviewed, but lender criteria can be stricter and the project needs to be well evidenced.
Does experience matter?
Yes. If direct experience is limited, professional team strength and project simplicity become more important. The practical answer depends on the funding purpose, timing, affordability, supporting evidence and lender appetite.
Will I need a deposit?
Borrower contribution is usually important for development finance. The level of deposit, retained cash in the business and the strength of the overall case can all affect lender appetite.
What documents help?
Planning, costings, valuation, GDV evidence, team details and exit plan are useful. It also helps to explain the amount needed, what the funding will do, how quickly it is needed and how repayments or the exit route are expected to work.