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First
Time
Developer
Finance

Development Finance for First-Time & Inexperienced Developers

Helping First-Time Developers Build Confidence Through Industry-Leading Support

Taking on your first property development project is a big step – and finding the right funding can feel like a challenge. At BLG Development Finance, we specialise in supporting ambitious new developers with the tailored finance, expert guidance and flexibility you need to bring your project to life, from start to finish. Our first time developer finance solutions are designed to open doors for those new to the sector. Whether you’re building a single home, converting a small block or undertaking a more ambitious scheme, we’re here to help you secure the funding that gets your project off the ground.

Entering the world of property development for the first time comes with a steep learning curve, which can make it difficult for new developers to access the support they need. Our team is ready to help though, with a focus on creating real opportunity, not red tape. We’ve helped many first-time developers complete their first build successfully – and go on to do many more!

First Time Developer Finance Lending Conditions

Our first time property developer finance offer:

Your Development Finance for First Time Developers Application

Applying for first time property developer finance doesn’t need to be daunting or overwhelming. Our team will support you in preparing the key information – including your budget, timelines, sales or letting strategy and team credentials. Our priority is to help you identify and minimise risk, present your plan clearly and build a case that gives confidence to our credit team. Having a clear exit strategy, whether through sales or refinance, is essential which our team will provide guidance with as part of your application.

We offer first time property development finance on a range of project types including:

  • New build homes or flats – From single houses to small blocks of flats, we support first-time developers building new residential units for sale or rent.

  • Property conversions or refurbishments – Converting commercial buildings into homes or modernising existing properties can be a smart entry point into development. We provide funding for a wide range of refurbishment projects.

  • Small residential schemes – Ideal for first-time developers looking to build 2–10 units, such as a small group of houses or a modest apartment block.

  • Mixed-use developments with a residential focus – Projects that combine residential units with ground-floor retail or office space can be funded, as long as housing remains the core element.

Our lending is always secured against the development property, and we work with you to put a strong team in place – from contractors to project managers – to increase confidence and improve the chances of success. We know that the first project sets the tone for your development career. That’s why we take extra care to ensure your finance solution is realistic, achievable and tailored to your needs.

 

Share Your Project Details And Give Us A Call

If you’re interested in finding out if a development loan could work for you, simply share some details and get in touch. Our team of property finance experts will have a chat with you to see if we can help.

We’ll Find The Right Solution Together

Tell us about your project, and using our knowledge and experience, our team will work with you to create a customised solution that fits your goals. We’ll also walk you through the process, so you understand the next steps.

Get A Quick Answer

We’ll provide you with our heads of terms quickly. If they meet your needs, just send us a full application to proceed. From there, a credit review will take place, leading to an offer backed by our commitment.

Funds Are Released After Due Diligence

Once our verification process is complete (typically 6-8 weeks depending on the complexity), you can expect to receive your funds. Now you can get back to what you do best while we take care of the financing.

First Time Developer Finance Made Simple

Start your journey from inexperienced developer to property professional. At BLG Development Finance, we make first time property development finance clear, accessible and achievable. Our goal is to empower you with the tools, insight and capital you need to succeed from day one, and to keep succeeding as your ambitions grow.

We’ve built a trusted reputation by backing great ideas and helping new developers turn plans into real, completed projects. With every build, you gain knowledge, confidence and momentum – and we’ll be there to support you at every stage.

If you’re ready to take the next step, get in touch with our team today. We’ll guide you through your first deal and stand by you as you grow your experience, your network and your development pipeline.

Contact Us Today

    First Time Property Developer Finance FAQs

    What is first time developer finance?

    First time developer finance is a specialist type of funding specifically designed for individuals or companies taking on their first property development project. This funding will help cover the costs of land purchase, construction or refurbishment until the project is completed and sold or refinanced.

    What types of projects do you finance for new developers?

    We support a range of commercial and residential projects including single-unit builds, small residential schemes, conversions, refurbishments and mixed-use developments.

    What are the stages of development finance?

    Development finance typically follows four main stages:

    1. Initial Enquiry – You share details of your project, and we assess whether it’s a good fit for funding.

    2. Heads of Terms – If suitable, we issue initial terms outlining the loan structure.

    3. Full Application & Due Diligence – You submit your full application, and we carry out detailed checks including valuations, legal work and credit assessment.

    4. Drawdown & Build Phase – Once the loan completes, funds are released in stages as your project progresses. We’ll continue to support and monitor the build until completion and repayment via your chosen exit strategy.

    This step-by-step process ensures the finance is structured properly and gives you clarity throughout the development journey.

    Will I need to contribute my own funds to the project?

    Like most lenders, we expect you to contribute some equity to demonstrate commitment and reduce risk. We’ll discuss the right structure for your specific project during your application.

    What’s the exit strategy and why is it important?

    Your exit strategy is how you plan to repay the loan – usually through sales, refinancing or letting. A clear, realistic exit plan is essential to secure funding and gives both you and the lender (us) confidence in your project.

    WHAT OUR CUSTOMERS SAY ABOUT US

    "A challenging site like no other with every inch of the plot being built on and 12 apartments built-out through a driveway 2.5m wide off of a main high street with limited access rights, not to mention all the complexities associated with 13 Party Wall Agreements. Most lenders would not have had the vision for the scheme or the confidence in Spiller Builders to build out the scheme.  I just wanted to say how helpful the entire BLG team have been during the build. A very approachable and knowledgeable team, with a “can do” approach to lending. We will be looking to do more business with you for sure."

    “We have used BLG for development finance for over 8 years. During that time we have found their knowledge and expertise in the property development industry to be second to none. Their loan process, pragmatic and flexible approach to lending and flexibility when required has supported our business needs throughout the period and provided us with support to deliver new homes in Bristol and the surrounding areas.”

    “As property developers you never know the curve balls that you may get and a project that is great on paper may prove a bit more tricky.  This happened to us on a project that BLG have funded and throughout they have supported us.  Our business likes to be collaborative and when we hit those tough moments it really felt like we were working as a team with BLG.  If you have a decent project you can get it funded, but what you really need is a business that is there to support and advise you as well.  For us on this project it was BLG.”

    “I approached BLG Development finance with an opportunity I had in Chesham, Buckinghamshire, to build 5 new build houses in 2021. My main contact was Anil Bains who is a Director covering Asset Management. Within very quick timescales, BLG provided me with indicative quotes in regards the finance levels they could offer me. Having considered those levels, I requested a valuation to be carried out which again was dealt with swiftly. We proceeded to completion. The build went very smoothly with monthly monitoring being carried out by BLG and monthly drawdown requests dealt with in a very timely manner. Due to a difficult time generally in the market in regards selling, I was in need of a six-month extension to the loan which again was appraised very quickly and granted. Having dealt with numerous funders over the last 20 years, I can only speak highly of my personal experience with BLG and would very confidently work with them again on any future projects. “

    "From our side it has also been a pleasure working with BLG and the team there. We have found you easy to deal with, proactive in resolving any minor issues that have arisen through the project and shown great flexibility in working with us as a partner. We will certainly like to work with you on future partners."

    “I really appreciate your hard work. We really like the way you communicate & I must say I haven't seen many people who are that approachable.”

    “A very efficient processing team, dealing with the DD once deal credit approved, through to completion”

    “Many thanks for your efforts on this one and getting it approved and sorted so swiftly, very much appreciated. I am sure I will be speaking to your over the coming months.”

    “We had other funding options, but chose to use BLG again, as we work well with the team, who always provide very clear information and advice with a friendly approach throughout the funding process. Very efficient and always very helpful.”

    “Many thanks Anil, it’s been a real pleasure working with BLG so far.  We’re lining up the next project too”

    “We would recommend all staff we have dealt with at BLG, as we are very satisfied with the team and the initial offer/terms presented, then you and the funding team, through to the draw down team at valuation stage.”

    “All documents are clear and the way you keep clients informed, all the way along the funding process, is refreshing for us”

    “With regard to what should be improved at BLG, we work with many lenders in our business and we do not get the help and response we have had on the two projects with all at BLG on our funding for our developments.”

    “We would particularly mention Dave Edwards and Tom Pitts as being central to having a smooth working relationship and being positive and helpful at all times. Their guidance in helping us navigate the project from inception to completion was invaluable. As was their patience, particularly at the beginning. We look forward to many future projects with the BLG team.”

    “We would like to express our appreciation for your support on our development in Bristol. We were very pleased that, from the outset, you shared our vision of the project to convert a dated but classical building, that had outlived its usefulness as a school, into unique luxury apartments with views overlooking the city. We found our dealings practical and streamlined. Monthly payments were processed in an efficient and timely manner.”

    “BLG are very good at communicating with clients and all documents are very clear and all at BLG are always happy to help.”

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