Property Developers Playbook is your go-to podcast to the world of property development and investment. Hosted by Jonathan Stobbs and Kieron Shepherd, who both have experience as developers and as main contractors, this podcast dives into the strategies, challenges, and rewards of real estate development.
Whether you're a contractor looking to transition into development or an investor looking to scale, each episode provides actionable insights, dos and don’ts, and first-hand experiences from those on the ground. Join us as we interview top developers, tackle common pitfalls, explore innovative solutions, and discuss the mindset required to thrive in property development.
Property Developer’s Playbook is more than just advice; it’s a blueprint for unlocking your potential in property development. Tune in to start building your knowledge, confidence, and your success.
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5: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Securing The Deal
Episode 5
Sunday, June 29, 2025 • Duration 25:52
In today's episode, Jonathan and Kieron discuss the crucial fourth step in property development: securing the deal. They cover making offers, structuring professional offer packs, and effective negotiation strategies with vendors. Their conversation explores legal considerations, vendor finance, heads of terms, and overage agreements, while stressing the importance of market research, due diligence, and clear communication.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Rather than submitting a simple email or phone call offer, Jonathan and Kieron recommend creating a comprehensive offer pack. This approach not only demonstrates professionalism but also builds credibility with both vendors and agents.
When making an offer, it’s beneficial to present two or three different structures, such as a straightforward cash purchase, a delayed payment using vendor finance, or a joint venture.
The credibility of your development team is crucial. Jonathan and Kieron stress the importance of assembling a team whose experience matches the scale and type of your project, and including their CVs in your offer pack.
Negotiation is an ongoing process. Even with a well-prepared offer, negotiations are expected. Being open to revising your offer if new information arises during legal due diligence, and not being afraid to walk away if the deal doesn’t stack up, is crucial.
BEST MOMENTS
"I'm very open with our numbers as to how we've worked it out. So if my GDV is wrong, tell me why I'm wrong. If the build costs are wrong, tell me how I'm wrong."
"You've done your homework, you've done your due diligence, you've put everything together, you've put the time into presenting it well, and there's a chance, even with all this presented, wrapped with a bow on it, you're still going to offend the vendor."
"You win some, you lose many. But that's part of it, isn't it? Put your best foot forward and hope for the best."
"The more you do this, you have that sort of risk calculator in your head, and you learn where you're comfortable and how much risk you're willing to take."
"Solicitors are solicitors, unless you've got a very efficient solicitor like the one that we use. She's very prompt, very quick. They always need chasing, need follow-ups, and they always need information."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
4: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Viability
Episode 4
Sunday, June 29, 2025 • Duration 39:47
Jonathan and Kieron continue their exploration of their 8 step property development program: assessing project viability. They explain how to calculate Gross Development Value (GDV), estimate build and development costs, and determine profit margins. They also cover soft costs, structural warranties, the significance of transparent, well-justified offers, and stress the importance of market research.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Viability assessment is crucial in the property development process. It involves quantifying all costs and estimating the Gross Development Value (GDV) to determine if a project is financially feasible.
Accurate cost and value estimation requires research and networking. Developers should use local comparables, consult estate agents, and leverage resources like Rightmove, Land Registry, and EPC registers to estimate sales values.
Conservative and transparent calculations lead to better decisions. When calculating viability, use conservative figures for GDV, build costs, and contingencies (typically 10%).
Local factors and soft costs significantly impact viability. Build and labour costs vary by region due to competition, remoteness, and local economies. Developers must also account for soft costs like architect fees, planning fees, surveys, warranties, and utilities.
BEST MOMENTS
"I always like to be on the conservative side, and if that means I lose, or more of my deals don’t stack and I walk away, well, I’d rather the deal really stacked for me."
"Too much information can lead to overwhelm. Some people, myself included, sometimes overanalyse and spend too much time analysing."
"The charity liked that we were going to be sensitive to the site, that we were going to try and involve the community, and that we were open with our numbers. That honesty, that openness, was perfect."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
2: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Sourcing
Episode 2
Sunday, June 29, 2025 • Duration 29:44
In this episode, we dive deep into the nuanced world of adaptability, leadership, and innovation with a guest who straddles multiple disciplines—from elite military operations to high-level coaching. Jonathan and Kieron explore how individuals and organisations can build adaptive capacity, leverage feedback loops, and thrive under pressure. If you're navigating change, leading teams, or pushing the limits of your own performance, this episode offers a compelling mix of strategy, science, and storytelling.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
While online platforms like Rightmove and Zoopla can be useful, the most valuable opportunities often come from building relationships with local commercial agents, architects, planning consultants, and even accountants.
Rather than casting a wide net, the hosts recommend focusing on a specific geographic area you know well—your “goldmine area.” This allows you to leverage local knowledge, build relationships, and manage developments more efficiently, especially if you want to balance work with family life.
Beyond traditional listings, the episode covers alternative sourcing methods such as direct-to-vendor letters, using land-sourcing software like Nimbus Maps, networking with professionals, and even following up on unsold auction properties.
Finding a potential site is only the beginning. Jonathan and Kieron stress the importance of quickly assessing whether a deal is viable by running the numbers, understanding build costs, and factoring in hidden expenses.
Property development is not a solo endeavour. Success depends on assembling the right team—planning consultants, architects, contractors, and more.
BEST MOMENTS
“Adaptability is not something you’re born with—it’s something you train like a muscle.”
“The best don’t rise to the occasion, they sink to the level of their systems.”
“Feedback is how nature evolves; if we don’t build it into our lives, we stagnate.”
“Stress isn’t toxic by default—it’s information. It’s how you respond that determines the outcome.”
“Leadership isn’t about having the answers—it’s about holding the space for better questions.”
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
1: Introducing: Property Developers Playbook
Episode 1
Sunday, June 29, 2025 • Duration 14:16
In this premiere episode of Property Developers Playbook, hosts Kieron Shepherd and Jonathan Stobbs introduce themselves, their backgrounds, and what inspired them to launch this podcast. With over 70 completed dwellings and 100 more in the pipeline, Kieron (a construction veteran) and Jonathan (an accountant-turned-developer) share how their complementary skillsets shape their approach to property development.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Kieron brings construction know-how; Jonathan brings financial acumen—together they demystify the property development process.
The podcast aims to help listeners avoid common (and costly) mistakes by sharing hard-earned experience.
The show will cover a comprehensive, cyclical development model—from sourcing sites to planning exits.
Jonathan and Kieron explain how development offers scalability, tax advantages, and better risk-reward balance.
Property development is a team sport; knowing your strengths and finding complementary partners is critical.
BEST MOMENTS
“Property development is not a solo sport.”
“You need to be the conductor of the orchestra—but you’ve also got to bring something to the table."
“We’ve learned a lot along the way—some of it the hard way.”
“There are huge tax advantages in property development compared to buy-to-let.”
“Do what you love. Don’t just chase the quick buck.”
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
3: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Assessing
Episode 3
Sunday, June 29, 2025 • Duration 27:24
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron explore the crucial second step of their property development program: assessing development opportunities. They discuss evaluating sites for viability, including checks on title registers, planning permissions, environmental constraints, infrastructure, and market demand.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It's important to assess development opportunities after sourcing potential sites.
Jonathan and Kieron discuss how to identify red flags during the sourcing phase.
It's vital to gain an understanding of viability through financial analysis.
BEST MOMENTS
"You know, invariably, we are the underbidders on opportunities. Sometimes those come back, sometimes they don't. But this is why you always need to be looking at a number of opportunities and have a pipeline."
"We were going to sell these bungalows to downsizers or people retiring to the local area who just want peace and quiet. If you’re going to have dogs barking for over an hour without any break, it’s not quite the environment you want to be retiring to."
"We have been in a bit of a planning battle for two years. We’re in a UNESCO World Heritage site, and we’ve just been messed around by World Heritage. What can I say? It’s been a long two years."
"Yes, they cost money, but it’s not really a cost—it’s an investment. Once you’ve got your first development, it kind of pays for itself, and you just repeat the subscription, really."
"We have a great solicitor. I will definitely mention her—Jo Morgan from Codes. They are fantastic solicitors. We’ve used her for a few years now, and she’s just great."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
6: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Planning
Episode 6
Sunday, June 29, 2025 • Duration 24:50
Breaking down the planning stage of property development is Jonathan and Kieron's main focus for this step. They discuss the importance of understanding planning applications, the role of planning consultants, and how local policies and Section 106 agreements can impact projects. They also share insights on managing planning risks, building a strong team, and whether to buy land with or without planning permission, offering practical advice for navigating the complexities of the planning process in property development.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Although planning is listed as step five in the Property Developers program, Jonathan and Kieran emphasise that planning considerations are a continuous process, not just a step.
Navigating national and local planning policies, understanding council-specific requirements, and managing complex applications are best handled by professionals who “geek out” on planning and have established relationships with local authorities.
The episode breaks down the main types of planning applications developers encounter: pre-application (pre-app), outline, and full planning.
Securing planning permission is a calculated risk involving time, money, and resources. However, successful planning can dramatically increase a site’s value and provide multiple exit strategies, such as selling with planning or building out.
Once planning is granted, developers must carefully discharge all conditions—especially pre-commencement ones—before starting work. Failing to do so can result in costly legal action against both companies and directors.
BEST MOMENTS
"Hoping to get planning—yes, I say hoping—it’s a calculated risk. You would have done a lot of work and had discussions with planning consultants up until this stage, so you’d get a level of comfort as to what you expect to get from a planning point of view. But there is a risk because you’re investing time, money, and resources into professionals, planning consultants, and other consultants like architects, on the presumption—the calculated risk—that you’re going to get planning for the development you ultimately want."
"So personally, I’m actually more attracted to land with planning. The reason being is it’s already almost been screened; it’s also been given permission for something."
"We actually—myself and an architect—went to view a piece of land, and we thought, "Oh, it’s great." Then we did some research on it, and it had over something like 50 applications in quite a short space of time. There’s a reason why there have been so many. Someone doesn’t like something about it; you’re probably not going to get what you want."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
7: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Funding 6th Step
Episode 7
Sunday, July 6, 2025 • Duration 21:58
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron delve into the critical topic of funding development deals, marking the sixth step in their eight-step development plan. They discuss the importance of considering funding from the very beginning of a project, highlighting various financing options such as bridging finance, crowdfunding, and private investors.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
While funding is discussed as step six in the development plan, it should be considered throughout the entire process, starting from the very beginning of a project.
There are various funding sources available, including bridging finance, development funding, crowdfunding, family offices, and private investors. Each option has its own advantages and challenges.
Building relationships with potential investors and funders is crucial. Networking should not only focus on finding deals but also on establishing connections with individuals who can provide financial backing.
When approaching investors, it's essential to create an investment pack that outlines your experience, your team, and the specifics of the project. This helps in building credibility and attracting funding.
Understanding the financial capabilities and preferences of potential investors is important. This includes being aware of regulations and ensuring that all agreements are legally sound to avoid complications later on.
BEST MOMENTS
"Funding is exactly the same way. That's something that is throughout the process, although we've put it in at step six, it's actually something that you need to be doing throughout the process."
"When you're starting out, you're most certainly going to have to learn to raise money. It's not easy, but any wealthy individual or business has raised money in the past."
"You want certainty you're going to get funding. Whereas previously it was like, are there enough investors who are bought into the development effectively?"
"You need to build your CV, your team CV and, um, mentors as well. You can put mentors on there, people that form that team and can have a connection with you."
"You can't do anything without the money. Tell people what your experience is and tell them about the team that you've got."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
8: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Building 7th Step
Episode 8
Sunday, July 13, 2025 • Duration 29:08
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron uncover the crucial 'build phase' of the 8-step development program, emphasising its significance throughout the entire development process. Kieron, with over 20 years of experience in the building trade, discusses the decision-making involved in choosing between managing the build yourself or hiring a main contractor. They highlight the importance of effective communication, accurate planning, and the various roles that contractors and quantity surveyors play in ensuring a successful project.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It's generally advisable to hire a main contractor for construction projects due to their expertise and ability to manage risks, health and safety, and compliance with regulations. If opting for self-management, hiring a contracts or construction manager is recommended.
Effective communication with the main contractor is crucial. Developers should clearly articulate their needs and expectations, as assumptions can lead to misunderstandings and project delays.
When selecting a main contractor, it's beneficial to obtain multiple quotes based on a detailed scope of work. Engaging a quantity surveyor can help ensure that the quotes are comparable and that the best value is achieved.
Timely payments to contractors are essential to maintain project momentum. Delays in payment can disrupt the workflow and lead to financial complications, making cash flow management a critical aspect of the construction process.
The construction industry in the UK is held to high standards, with multiple layers of checks from building control, warranty providers, and monitoring surveyors. Ensuring compliance with these standards is vital for the success and safety of the project.
BEST MOMENTS
"Personally, I think managing it yourself is madness, but that's not to say you have to go down the main contractor route."
"Main contractors have to work up to be able to build out developments. They don't just go from building a conservatory to building out a site of 10 houses."
"It's a joint process. Everyone's trying to make money through this process."
"You want to make sure everyone's safe. Everybody's good at what they do and building at the right price."
"If you get a good one in the local area, they will have all the connections. They will know all the people to call."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
9: 8 Steps To Success In Property Development: Planning Your Exit Strategy
Episode 9
Sunday, July 20, 2025 • Duration 24:45
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron unveil the final step of their eight-step property development process: Exit Strategies. They emphasise the importance of starting with the end in mind, discussing various exit options such as build to sell, build to rent, supported living, and service accommodation. Jonathan and Kieron also highlight the significance of understanding market demands, tax implications, and the necessity of building a reliable team, including estate agents and property tax specialists.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
It's crucial to consider your exit strategy from the very beginning of a property development project. This includes understanding your target market, location, and the type of units you plan to build.
Be aware of the tax implications related to property development, including VAT rates for different types of projects. Consulting with a property tax specialist can help you navigate these complexities and potentially reclaim funds.
There are various exit strategies available, including build to sell, buy to let, supported living, and service accommodation. Each strategy has its pros and cons, and it's important to evaluate which aligns best with your goals.
Building a strong team, including estate agents, letting agents, and property management companies, is essential. Their insights can guide your decisions and help you design properties that meet market demands.
Maintaining a steady cash flow is vital for any property development business. Holding onto rental properties can provide regular income, which can be beneficial during periods when new developments are not generating revenue.
BEST MOMENTS
"It's something that we've mentioned on a lot of the episodes before that, although it's at the end of the cycle, it's actually something that's considered from the very beginning."
"You want some truth out of them, not just for them to be yes men."
"If you're going to be releasing properties off plan and getting those pre-sales in, it definitely helps."
"You do get sort of waves of ups and downs of property in terms of how quick they're selling."
"You have to have a lot more in common, a lot more that works well than it doesn't."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
10: Navigating The Various Methods of Construction
Episode 10
Sunday, July 27, 2025 • Duration 43:42
In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron unmask the various methods of construction used in property development. They discuss the pros and cons of traditional brick and block construction, highlighting its reliability and buyer perception, while also exploring the growing popularity of timber frame and modular construction methods. They cover essential factors such as cost, timeframes, and the impact of weather on construction processes.
Click here to access Jonathan and Kieron's construction methods checklist:
https://bit.ly/PDP_ConstructionMethodsChecklist
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Choosing the right method of construction is crucial in property development, as it impacts cost, timeframe, saleability, and overall project viability. Common methods include traditional brick and block, timber frame, and modular construction.
Brick and block construction is seen as traditional and reliable, offering solid structures with minimal movement. However, it is weather-dependent and can be slower compared to other methods like timber frame.
Timber frame construction is gaining popularity due to its speed and efficiency. It allows for quick assembly and can be pre-fabricated in a dry environment, but it requires careful management to avoid issues with moisture and twisting.
Effective logistics and site management are essential for successful construction projects. This includes ensuring materials are delivered on time, managing labor effectively, and preparing the site for equipment like cranes.
Newer methods such as structural insulated panels (SIPs) and modular construction are being explored for their efficiency and performance. However, they come with their own challenges, including higher costs and the need for careful design and engineering to ensure successful implementation.
BEST MOMENTS
"The construction method obviously affects a lot of factors: cost, timeframe, finance, and saleability as well."
"I think lenders prefer traditional brick and block because it's kind of standard; it's what people expect."
"Timber frame seems like the new kid on the block, but probably for 30 years people have been doing it."
"You need to make sure that you have the logistics side in there as well with all of these types."
"Structural insulated panels are like the high-performance cousins of timber frame."
HOST BIOS
Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence.
Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success.
https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/
https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/
