Development & Investment Advisory
Site identification. Find the right site, then secure it.
The most important development decision is usually the first: which site. We start with what you need, then look on and off the market through agents, landowners and our own contacts in land, test each option as a developer would, and help you secure the one that works, with a business case to back it.
Who it is for
For developers and investors looking for their next site, for businesses and organisations that need land or buildings for their own use, and for anyone with a clear requirement but no acquisitions team of their own.
What it covers
- The briefWhat you need and why: the type and size of scheme or building, the area, the budget and the timescale, turned into clear search criteria.
- SearchOpportunities on and off the market, through agents, landowners, planning records and our own contacts in land.
- ScreeningEach site checked quickly against the brief: the planning position, constraints, access and likely cost, so time is spent on the best few.
- AppraisalThe shortlist appraised as a developer would: what could be built, what it would cost, what it would be worth and what the site can support.
- The business caseThe numbers, the risks and the recommendation set out clearly for your board, investors or lender.
- Securing the siteAgreeing terms with the agents and your solicitor, whether an outright purchase, a purchase subject to planning or an option.
- Due diligenceTitle, planning, ground conditions and services checked before you exchange.
How it works
- BriefWhat you need, where, by when and within what budget.
- SearchSites found on and off the market, and screened against the brief.
- AppraiseThe best options appraised, with a business case for the preferred site.
- SecureTerms agreed and due diligence completed, ready to exchange.
Questions we answer
- What are we really looking for, and what can we afford?
- Where are the right sites, on and off the market?
- Which of them work, and what should we pay?
- How do we secure the site, and on what terms?
What you receive
- A written search brief
- A shortlist of appraised sites
- A business case for the preferred site
- Support through to exchange
Example
Three industrial units in Kent
Before buying three industrial units, a client wanted to know what it would cost to occupy one and what the other two could be worth. The study set out each option so the purchase was made on evidence.
Guides
Common questions
Do you only look at sites that are on the market?
No. Many good sites never reach the open market. We approach landowners and use our contacts in land, alongside the agents.
Who do you act for?
You, the buyer. If any other party would pay us anything on a site we put to you, we tell you before you decide.
Is the appraisal a valuation?
No. It is a development appraisal to help you decide what to pay and whether to proceed. Where a formal valuation is needed, for a lender for example, it comes from a registered valuer.
What happens once we have the site?
You have the appraisal and business case to proceed. If you want, we carry on as development manager through planning and delivery.