{"id":88,"date":"2026-05-22T16:49:51","date_gmt":"2026-05-22T15:49:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/?p=88"},"modified":"2026-05-22T17:54:35","modified_gmt":"2026-05-22T16:54:35","slug":"how-to-derisk-a-build","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/getting-started\/how-to-derisk-a-build\/","title":{"rendered":"How to De-risk a Build"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Most UK property developments do not fail because the idea was bad.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They fail because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>risk was underestimated<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cash flow tightened<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>timelines slipped<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>complexity compounded<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The dangerous part of development is that problems rarely arrive one at a time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A delayed utility connection becomes:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>additional finance costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contractor disruption<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>delayed sales<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>refinancing pressure<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Successful developers are not simply good at building.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They are good at:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>controlling downside<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>protecting liquidity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reducing uncertainty before construction begins<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The objective is not:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cHow much profit can this scheme make?\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">\u201cHow many ways can this scheme survive?\u201d<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What does \u201cderisking a build\u201d actually mean?<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Derisking means reducing the probability or impact of:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>cost overruns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>refinancing problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>planning issues<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contractor failure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sales weakness<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cash flow stress<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good development projects become progressively safer over time.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The highest-risk phase is usually:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>before planning certainty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>before build certainty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>before finance certainty<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professional developers focus heavily on reducing uncertainty before major capital is committed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Buy conservatively<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The easiest way to derisk a build is:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>buying correctly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many development problems start with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>overpaying for land or property.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Aggressive acquisitions leave:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>no contingency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>no margin for delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>no room for market shifts<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The strongest projects usually begin with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>sensible acquisition pricing<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>realistic GDV assumptions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>conservative finance structures<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good developers protect downside at purchase.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Keep the scheme simple<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Complexity creates risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simple projects generally outperform:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>complicated schemes with optimistic upside.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Lower-risk projects often include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>straightforward refurbishments<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>standard layouts<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>proven unit types<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>simple planning precedents<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Higher-risk projects often involve:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>unusual construction<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>heavy structural alterations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>difficult access<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>complicated planning<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>specialist engineering<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Complexity increases:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>contractor risk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>programme risk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>finance risk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>compliance risk<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Simple builds are easier to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>cost<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>finance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>refinance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Secure planning properly<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Planning risk destroys many developments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Never assume:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u201cit should get approved.\u201d<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Before committing heavily:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>review local policy<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>study nearby approvals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>understand objections<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>assess parking pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>check conservation restrictions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>examine flood risk<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>review Article 4 directions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professional developers often spend substantial time:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>reducing planning uncertainty before acquisition or commencement.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The most dangerous schemes rely on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>optimistic planning assumptions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Stress test the numbers<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many developments only work:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>in perfect conditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That is dangerous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A proper appraisal should survive:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>higher build costs<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>lower GDV<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>longer timelines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>higher interest rates<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Example stress testing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if build costs rise 10%?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Build\\ Cost \\times 1.10<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if GDV falls 5%?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">GDV \\times 0.95<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What if the project takes six months longer?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Holding costs compound rapidly:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>bridging interest<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>arrangement fees<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>utilities<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>insurance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>opportunity cost<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best projects remain viable under pressure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Maintain substantial contingency<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contingency is not optional.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is survival capital.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unexpected issues are normal:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>drainage problems<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>structural movement<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>utility delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>redesigns<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>material inflation<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contractor changes<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professional developers often separate:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>build contingency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>finance contingency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cash reserve contingency<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Projects fail surprisingly often because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>liquidity disappears before completion.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Use experienced professionals<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Trying to save money on professional advice can become extremely expensive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Critical areas include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>architects<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>structural engineers<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>planning consultants<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>quantity surveyors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>solicitors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>brokers<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Weak professional teams create:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>design errors<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>planning delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>compliance failures<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>lender problems<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good consultants frequently reduce risk more than they cost.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Choose contractors carefully<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many builds fail because:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>contractor quality was poorly assessed.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Common warning signs:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>unusually cheap quotes<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>weak references<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>poor communication<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>unrealistic timelines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cash flow instability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cheapest contractor is often:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the most expensive outcome.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good developers assess:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>financial stability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>previous projects<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>delivery consistency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>management capability<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">not just price.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Phase projects where possible<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Large schemes create concentrated risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Phasing can reduce exposure.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Benefits include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>staged capital deployment<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>earlier sales<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>refinancing flexibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>improved cash flow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reduced downside concentration<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Smaller phases are often easier to:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>finance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sell<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>manage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is particularly important during uncertain market conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Avoid overleveraging<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Excess leverage removes flexibility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many developers rely on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>maximum debt<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>minimal liquidity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>optimistic refinance assumptions<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This creates fragility.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Higher leverage magnifies:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>stress<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>lender pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>refinancing dependence<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Conservative leverage improves survivability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Especially when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>interest rates rise<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sales slow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>build costs increase<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Understand the local end market<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some developments are designed for:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>developers<br>rather than buyers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This is dangerous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The end product must match:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>real demand<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>local affordability<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>buyer preferences<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>tenant expectations<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Questions to ask:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Who actually buys this product?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Can local buyers afford it?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Is supply increasing nearby?<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Are unit sizes competitive?<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best schemes are commercially realistic, not just architecturally attractive.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">11. Protect the exit strategy<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many projects assume:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>refinance or sale will be easy.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But market conditions change.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Strong developers prepare multiple exits.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Examples:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>sell all units<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>refinance and retain<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>partial disposals<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>staged exits<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The more flexible the exit:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the lower the risk.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">12. Monitor the build aggressively<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Projects drift when:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>nobody controls them properly.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Developers must monitor:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>programme progress<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>contractor performance<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cost variations<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cash flow<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>compliance<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Small problems become large problems when ignored.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professional developers treat:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>oversight<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>reporting<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cost tracking<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">as core parts of development.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Why derisking matters more than upside<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many inexperienced developers focus entirely on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>headline profit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Professionals focus on:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>probability of successful delivery.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A project showing:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\u00a3500k theoretical profit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">may actually be worse than:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>a simpler \u00a3180k scheme with lower risk.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best projects are often:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>repeatable<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>financeable<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>resilient<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>operationally manageable<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Signs a build may be under-risked<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Warning signs include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>tiny contingency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>aggressive GDV assumptions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>complex planning<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>maximum leverage<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>unrealistic timelines<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>speculative buyer assumptions<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>inexperienced contractor teams<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>dependence on one perfect exit<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the numbers only work in ideal conditions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>the project is fragile.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h1 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Final thoughts<\/h1>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Property development is fundamentally:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>risk management disguised as construction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The best developers do not eliminate risk entirely.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">They:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>reduce uncertainty<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>preserve liquidity<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>build conservatively<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>maintain flexibility<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>protect downside relentlessly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">A strong development project is not simply one with:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>high projected profit.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is one that can survive:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>delays<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>cost increases<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>valuation pressure<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>market weakness<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">and still remain viable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In UK property investing, the projects that survive difficult markets are usually the projects that were derisked properly from the start.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Most UK property developments do not fail because the idea was bad. They fail because: The dangerous part of development is that problems rarely arrive one at a time. A delayed utility connection becomes: Successful developers are not simply good at building. They are good at: The objective is not: \u201cHow much profit can this [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":114,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"ai_generated_summary":"","wpai_meta_description":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-88","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-getting-started"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=88"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":113,"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/88\/revisions\/113"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/114"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=88"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=88"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/koreograph.com\/pages\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=88"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}