Property Development Finance Brokers
If you’re looking to fund building projects, you can get development finance for that. Speak to one of the specialist brokers we work with to learn more about getting approved for this type of mortgage.
Experienced Property Development Finance Brokers
Borrow from £25k to £25m
Help with complex cases
Market-leading development finance rates
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Helping with Property Development Finance
Planning a property development but not sure how to fund it? We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re planning your first self-build, working on a multi-unit development, or expanding your commercial property portfolio, securing the right property development finance can make all the difference.
At Delta Mortgages, we know that no two developments are the same—and neither are the funding options. We work with specialist development finance lenders across the UK to find the right solution for your project, budget, and timeline.
Whether you need short-term bridging finance for property development, a development loan for new builds, or a long-term investment mortgage, we take the complexity out of securing funding—so you can focus on what really matters: getting the build underway.
And if your project is already complete, but you’re paying eye-watering interest rates on your current loan, development exit finance could help you refinance onto a more competitive deal—freeing up cash for your next venture.
We help secure funding for:
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Single to multi-unit ground-up developments – Whether you’re building one house or a whole street, we’ll match you with lenders who understand your vision.
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Commercial property development finance – Funding for semi-commercial, mixed-use, and office-to-residential conversions.
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Self-build development finance – Whether it’s your dream home or a small-scale development, we’ll help you secure the right funding—without the stress.
Property development finance doesn’t have to be complicated. With the right lender, the right deal, and a development finance broker who knows the market inside out (hello there👋🏼), we’ll help you secure the funding you need—without the hassle.
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What is Development Finance?
Development finance is a short-term, interest-only loan designed to fund property development projects—whether that’s a new-build home, a multi-unit residential scheme, or a commercial conversion.
Unlike traditional mortgages, development finance works in stages. Instead of receiving the full loan amount upfront, funds are released in drawdowns, linked to the progress of the project. This staged approach helps manage cash flow and ensures that funds are used efficiently as construction progresses.
Who Uses Development Finance?
Property developers funding large-scale projects.
Landlords & investors financing conversions, refurbishments, or mixed-use developments.
Self-builders constructing their own home.
Because of its flexibility, development finance can be used across residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties—helping developers move from planning to completion without financial bottlenecks.
Is Property Development Finance Different from Construction Finance?
While the terms property development finance and construction finance are sometimes used interchangeably, there’s a key difference between them. Construction finance is a specific type of funding that only covers the building phase of a project, whereas development finance is broader and can fund both the purchase of land and the construction work.
Affordability for construction finance can be more complex because lenders are working with several unknowns. The key figure they use to determine how much to lend is the Gross Development Value (GDV)—this is the estimated value of the completed project, including the total development costs.
Lenders will typically offer between 60% and 75% of GDV, assessing factors such as project viability, construction costs, and expected sale price or rental income. If you already own the land and just need finance for the build, construction finance may be suitable, but if you need funding for both land acquisition and construction, development finance is the better fit.
How Does Property Development Finance Work?
Property development finance is a short-term loan designed to be released in stages as your project progresses—this process is known as tranche drawdowns. Unlike a traditional mortgage, where funds are paid upfront, lenders release development finance in phases, ensuring that capital is being used effectively and that the project stays on track.
Most lenders will carry out periodic site inspections before releasing the next drawdown—similar to how a self-build mortgage works. This helps keep the schedule of works (SOW) aligned with the funding, reducing risk for both the lender and the developer.
Because development finance is interest-only, lenders require a clear exit strategy—your plan for repaying the loan at the end of the term. Typically, this involves either:
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Selling the completed development to repay the loan in full.
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Refinancing onto a long-term mortgage to retain the property as an asset.
While development finance shares similarities with bridging loans, one of its biggest advantages is the ability to borrow much larger sums—particularly useful for those purchasing land or taking on large-scale construction projects. However, different terms, conditions, and repayment structures apply depending on whether you're funding a site purchase, construction, or both.
Property Development Finance Eligibility criteria and deposits
No two property developments are the same, and neither are the finance options. Whether you're building a one-off dream home or plotting out a whole row of townhouses, lenders will want to know the ins and outs of your project before handing over the funds.
Below are some key things they look at when assessing your application.
The golden rule of property development finance is the bigger the deposit, the better the deal. Most lenders will want 25%-40% of the land value upfront, with LTVs of 60%-75%. But if you need funding for the entire build, some lenders will go up to 100% LTV for construction costs, but you’ll need to offer up extra security, a joint venture arrangement, or some serious persuasion skills.
Lenders love a good plan. Because development finance is interest-only, they’ll want to know exactly how you’ll repay the loan. Whether you plan to sell the finished development or remortgage onto a long-term loan, your exit strategy needs to be solid, realistic, and reassuring enough to keep the lender’s stress levels in check.
If you’ve been on-site more times than a builder’s tea mug, lenders will see you as a lower risk. But if you’re a first-time developer, don’t panic—some lenders will still consider your application if you’ve got a rock-solid business plan, an experienced team, or a hefty deposit to back you up.
Some lenders offer fixed or variable rates, while others stick to just one. Development finance terms usually last 3 to 36 months—a short time if everything goes to plan, but plenty of time for things to go sideways if you’re not careful. Choosing a lender who understands your project timeline can make all the difference.
Lenders aren’t in the business of handing out free money, so expect higher rates than standard mortgages. If your project is complex, high-risk, or your first foray into development, rates might edge towards the pricier side. A specialist development finance broker (like us, conveniently) can help find lenders offering competitive terms—and not just the ones looking to make a quick buck off your hard work.
Some lenders love funding commercial-to-residential conversions, while others are all about the new builds. Then there are those who only deal in hotels, overseas projects, or first-time developers. The trick? Working with a property development broker who knows exactly which lender to approach—so you don’t waste time knocking on the wrong doors.
Some lenders let you pay off the loan early with no penalties—others will slap on an exit fee (1%-2% of the total loan) for the trouble. Other potential costs include broker fees (0.75%-1%), valuation charges, and arrangement fees (1%-2% of the loan amount). It’s all about reading the fine print before signing on the dotted line—or better yet, letting us handle that bit for you.
Lenders can be picky, unpredictable, and sometimes just plain confusing. But with the right development finance broker on your side, you can cut through the red tape, find the best deal, and get your project off the ground—without losing sleep over spreadsheets.
How to Get Property Development Finance
Securing property development finance isn’t as simple as walking into a bank and asking for a loan—lenders want to see a solid plan, realistic figures, and a clear strategy for paying them back. That’s where working with a specialist development finance broker makes all the difference.
At Delta Mortgages, our specialist property development finance brokers match you with the right lender for your project, ensuring you get a deal that works for you—not just one that works for the bank.
Here’s how a development finance broker can help:
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Preparing Your Business Plan & Exit Strategy – Lenders won’t just take your word for it—they want to see a detailed schedule of works (SOW), cost breakdowns, and a clear exit strategy. Whether you’re selling the development or refinancing onto a long-term loan, your broker will help package your plans in a way that gives lenders confidence.
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Working Out How Much You’ll Need to Borrow – It’s not just about how much you want—it’s about how much lenders will give you. Your development finance adviser will assess the Gross Development Value (GDV) of your project, break down the costs of land, construction, and fees, and determine how much funding you’ll need to bring it to life.
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Finding the Right Lenders – Not all lenders fund all projects. Some specialise in new-builds, others in conversions, hotels, or first-time developers. Your broker will know exactly who to approach to secure the most competitive rates and terms—without you having to waste time on dead ends.
Whether you’re breaking ground on your first project or scaling up to a multi-unit development, getting the right finance in place is key to making it happen smoothly.
How Much Does a Development Finance Broker Cost?
The cost of using a development finance broker depends on the complexity of your project and the level of support required. Typically, brokers charge between 0.75% and 1% of the loan amount, payable once a formal loan offer has been agreed upon.
Some brokers may also charge an upfront administration fee, covering the work involved in preparing and submitting your application to a lender. While this varies, it’s always worth checking what’s included in their service and whether the fee is refundable if funding isn’t secured.
A good development finance broker isn’t just about finding you a loan—they’re there to negotiate better terms, access specialist lenders, and save you time (and money) in the long run.
We're all about transparency when it comes to mortgage broker fees. You'll know upfront what fees you're looking at. It really is that simple.
Types of Developments You Can Fund with Property Development Finance
The right lender can provide funding for a wide range of development projects, whether you’re working on a small residential build or a multi-million-pound commercial scheme.
Residential Buildings
From single self-build homes to multi-unit developments and apartment blocks, development finance can help fund both ground-up construction and major refurbishments.
Commercial Property Development Finance
Covers offices, retail units, warehouses, industrial facilities, medical centres, hotels, pubs, restaurants, and cafes.
Regeneration or Conversions
Whether you’re giving a building a facelift with light refurbishments or taking on a structural renovation, development finance can help revitalise existing properties.
Ground-Up Developments
Perfect for those starting with a bare plot of land, whether it’s a new housing estate, a commercial complex, or a mixed-use scheme. Some lenders may also fund projects using retained foundations or partial structures.
With the right development finance lender, almost any type of property project is possible—it’s just about finding the right funding structure.
How Much Can You Borrow with Property Development Finance?
Lenders assess affordability based on Gross Development Value (GDV)—the projected market value of the completed development. Typically, a lender may provide:
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Up to 70% of the GDV – This means the loan is based on the estimated end value of the project.
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75% to 100% of development costs – Some lenders will cover the full construction costs, but often require additional security or a joint venture finance arrangement.
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Minimum development finance loans start from around £25,000.
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Larger-scale funding can go as high as £50 million, depending on the project size, lender criteria, and borrower experience.
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However, every lender has their own limits, preferences, and risk appetite—which is why working with a specialist development finance broker ensures you access the right lenders for your project’s size and scope.
What Lenders Are Available for Property Development Finance?
The lenders offering property development finance vary depending on factors like location, project size, and the type of development you’re funding. While high-street banks do offer some property development loans, many of the most competitive and flexible deals come from specialist development finance lenders—many of whom only work via experienced brokers.
Below are some examples of lenders providing development finance:
Offers first-charge lending up to 70% GDV and 90% of costs for loans between £450,000 and £35 million, available in England and Wales.
Provides development finance for residential and commercial projects, with loan sizes between £1 million and £15 million. Loan terms range from 12 to 24 months, with a maximum LTV of 70% and funding up to 85% of costs.
Funds property development projects between £1 million and £25 million, with up to 85% loan-to-cost and 65% GDV. Terms extend up to 30 months, with interest rates assessed on a case-by-case basis.
Other well-known lenders in the construction and development finance space include Mint, Octopus Real Estate, and Hope Capital, which offer bespoke solutions for ground-up developments, refurbishments, and conversions.
Using Mezzanine Finance to Fund a Development
Ever got 90% of the way through a project only to realise you’re missing that last bit of funding? That’s where mezzanine finance comes in—it’s the financial scaffolding that helps bridge the gap between your own capital and what your main lender is willing to provide.
Let’s say your primary lender offers 60% of the total project costs, and you can contribute another 20%—that still leaves a 20% shortfall. Rather than watching your development dreams slip through your fingers, mezzanine finance steps in to cover that missing piece, ensuring you can get the project over the line.
Because mezzanine loans are second charge finance, they sit behind your main development loan—meaning your primary lender gets paid back first. This higher risk for the mezzanine lender usually means higher interest rates, but for many developers, it’s a small price to pay for keeping a project moving.
If getting your development started (or finished) is the goal, mezzanine finance might just be the missing piece of the funding puzzle.
Alternative option for property development finance to consider
Not every development project follows a straight path—and neither does its funding. If traditional development finance doesn’t fit, there are plenty of other options to explore.
If lenders are playing hard to get or your deposit is looking a little thin, a joint venture (JV) partnership could be the answer. This involves partnering with another investor or developer, pooling resources to secure the funding you need.
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Pros: No personal deposit required, access to an experienced partner, shared risk.
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Cons: Profit-sharing (usually 50/50), possible loss of full control over the project.
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A business loan can sometimes be used for land acquisition or construction costs, as long as you can meet the repayment terms.
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Pros: Straightforward financing option, can be used alongside other funding.
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Cons: Monthly repayments required during construction, may not be tailored to development finance needs.
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If you already own property, refinancing could allow you to release equity to put towards your next development.
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Pros: Can leverage existing assets, may offer better rates than other finance options.
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Cons: Reduces ownership equity, increases overall borrowing costs.
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If you need quick cash to buy a site while waiting for long-term funding then a bridging loan could help. Unlike development finance, which is released in stages, a bridging loan provides a lump sum upfront—perfect if you need to move fast on a deal.
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Pros: Fast access to capital, flexible repayment terms.
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Cons: Higher interest rates, requires a strong exit strategy.
In some cases, bridging finance and development finance can work together, allowing you to secure land quickly while arranging the right long-term funding solution.
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Three Simple Steps to Securing Property Development Finance
Getting property development finance doesn’t have to be a headache. Whether you’re funding a ground-up build, a conversion, or a multi-unit project, we make the process clear, simple, and tailored to you.
Here’s how it works:
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Secure Your Development Loan & Start Building
Once we’ve found the right deal, we’ll help you navigate the application process, liaise with lenders, and get your funding in place—so you can get your project off the ground without delays.
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Find the Best Finance Option for Your Development
We compare development finance lenders across the market, identifying the most cost-effective and flexible options based on your timeline, loan size, and repayment strategy.
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Speak to an Experienced Development Finance Broker
Tell us about your project—whether it’s a single home, a commercial conversion, or a large-scale development. We’ll discuss your plans, budget, and funding needs to match you with the right lenders for your project.
How Do I Apply for Property Development Finance?
Applying for property development finance isn’t quite as simple as getting a residential mortgage—lenders see property projects as higher risk, which means stricter checks, more paperwork, and plenty of fine print. But don’t worry—that’s where we come in.
At Delta Mortgages, we take the stress out of securing funding by helping you navigate lender requirements, structure your application, and increase your chances of approval. Whether you’re funding a ground-up build, a refurbishment, or a large-scale development, we ensure your application ticks all the right boxes.
What Are the Stages of Development Finance?
Turning a plot of land or an empty shell into a completed development doesn’t happen overnight—and neither does securing the finance to fund it. Development finance is structured differently from a traditional mortgage, and knowing what to expect at each stage can save you time, stress, and (let’s be honest) a few headaches along the way.
Here’s how the development finance process unfolds, from that first conversation to securing your loan and getting the project built.
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Enquiry & Initial Advice
Before you even think about applying for finance, speak to a development finance broker—seriously, it’ll save you a world of hassle.
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Understanding Your Options – Not all development finance is created equal, and different lenders specialise in different projects. Talking to a broker will help narrow down the best funding route for your specific plans.
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Budget & Cost Planning – Lenders will want a realistic breakdown of your costs, including land purchase, construction, professional fees, and contingency funds.
This is your chance to ask all the questions, explore what’s possible, and get a clear idea of what lenders will expect from you.
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Application & Agreement in Principle (AIP)
Once you’ve found the right lender, it’s time to make it official (well, almost).
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Submitting Your Application – Be prepared to provide:
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Development plans & cost breakdowns
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Gross Development Value (GDV) projections
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Schedule of works (SOW)
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Exit strategy (a must-have for all lenders)
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If the lender likes what they see, they’ll issue an Agreement in Principle (AIP)—essentially a “we’re interested, but let’s check a few more things” statement.
An AIP isn’t a guaranteed loan offer, but it puts you in a strong position to move forward.
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Due Diligence & Valuation
This is where the lender really starts digging into the details—not just of your project, but of you as a borrower.
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Site Inspection – A lender-appointed valuer will assess the land, its potential, and market demand.
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Development Viability Check – Lenders want to see that your project is financially sound and deliverable within the given timeframe.
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Financial Health Review – Expect lenders to review your credit history, financial position, and previous development experience.
If you respond quickly to lender queries and provide clear documentation, you’ll keep the process moving smoothly—and speed up the loan approval.
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Loan Offer & Legal Work
If everything stacks up, the lender issues a formal loan offer or facility letter, outlining:
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Loan amount, interest rates & repayment terms
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Security requirements (personal guarantees, additional collateral, etc.)
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Legal agreements – Time to get the solicitors involved (yes, more paperwork, but necessary).
At this stage, having a solicitor experienced in development finance is non-negotiable—they’ll help ensure there are no nasty surprises hidden in the small print.
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Completion & Drawdowns
Once the legal work is wrapped up, it’s time to access your funding and get the project moving. Unlike a mortgage, development finance is released in stages (drawdowns) rather than as a lump sum.
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First Drawdown – Typically covers the land purchase or initial site preparation.
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Ongoing Drawdowns – Funds are released at key project milestones (i.e., after the foundations are laid, structural work is complete, etc.).
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Lender Inspections – Before releasing the next payment, lenders check the development is progressing as planned.
This staged approach keeps cash flow controlled and ensures funds are used efficiently.
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Repayment & Exit Strategy
Development finance is short-term, so lenders expect a clear exit strategy from day one. The most common ways to repay the loan include:
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Selling the completed development – Often the goal for larger projects, where sales proceeds clear the loan.
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Refinancing onto a long-term mortgage – Ideal if you’re planning to retain and rent out the property.
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Portfolio Restructuring or Partial Sales – Some developers sell part of the project and keep the rest as an investment.
Lenders will scrutinise your exit plan before approving the loan, so having a strong strategy upfront can help secure better terms and interest rates.
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Finding a better neighbourhood
What Fees Will I Pay for Property Development Finance?
Nobody likes hidden costs, so let’s break down the key fees you’ll need to budget for when securing property development finance. Whether you’re funding a self-build, a multi-unit scheme, or a commercial conversion, understanding these costs upfront can help you manage your budget and avoid nasty surprises.
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Valuation Fees – Before a lender signs off on your loan, they’ll send a valuer to assess the site and its potential. Unlike a quick residential valuation, they’ll factor in build costs, end value (GDV), and local market conditions. Fees typically start from £500 but can increase depending on the complexity of the project.
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Arrangement Fees – This is what the lender charges to set up the loan. Expect fees between 0.75% and 2% of the total loan amount. Some lenders let you roll this into the loan, but that means paying interest on it—so always check the small print.
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Legal Fees – Both you and the lender will need solicitors, and the costs can vary depending on the complexity of the development. Simple deals may start at a few hundred pounds, but multi-unit or mixed-use projects will likely cost more. If you need help finding a solicitor who understands development finance, we can point you in the right direction.
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Broker Fees – A development finance broker typically charges around 1% of the loan value. While this is an additional cost, a good broker can unlock better deals, speed up approvals, and make sure you’re not paying more than necessary—which can save you far more than the fee in the long run.
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Exit Fees – Some lenders charge an exit fee when you repay the loan, usually 1%–2% of the loan amount. This can apply if you sell the property or refinance onto a long-term mortgage, so it’s important to factor this into your repayment strategy.
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Drawdown & Monitoring Fees – Since development finance is released in stages, lenders will charge for each drawdown and for site inspections to ensure the project is progressing as planned. These fees vary but are worth noting in your budget.
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Get Your Mortgage Agreement in Principle
Once we’ve found the right mortgage, we’ll secure your Agreement in Principle (AIP)—so you know exactly what you can borrow before making an offer. That way, when you find your perfect home, you can move forward with confidence (and beat other buyers to the punch!).
At Delta Mortgages, we make moving home mortgages stress-free. Whether you're navigating the property chain, need advice on porting, or want to secure the best mortgage rates, we’re here to make it simple—so you can get on with the important things (like figuring out where the sofa’s going).
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We’ll Search the Market for the Best Mortgage Deal
With access to over 14,000 mortgage products, we’ll compare the latest moving home mortgage rates—including deals that aren’t available on the high street. If porting your mortgage makes sense, we’ll help with that too. And if there’s a better deal elsewhere? We’ll make the switch easy.
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Speak to a Moving Home Mortgage Adviser
Start with a free initial, no-obligation chat with one of our experienced mortgage brokers. Whether you're upsizing, downsizing, or relocating for work, we’ll break down your options, explain the best mortgage rates, and handle the mortgage legwork—without drowning you in jargon.
Let’s Talk Moving Home Mortgages
Speak to a mortgage broker today and get expert mortgage advice from our team in Dorset and Hampshire.
The Homebuyer’s Complete Guide to Mortgages and Remortgages
Whether you're buying a new home, moving up the property ladder, or remortgaging for a better deal, getting the right mortgage can make all the difference. At Delta Mortgages, we handle everything from new house purchases to remortgages—ensuring you get the best mortgage for your move.
While the mortgage process can often seem straightforward, expert mortgage advice can save you time, money, and potential headaches. With access to over 14,000 mortgage products, our independent mortgage brokers in Dorset and Hampshire will find you a deal that fits your circumstances—so you can move with confidence.
What You’ll Need to Apply for a Property Development Finance
Applying for property development finance isn’t just about ticking boxes—lenders want to see that your project is viable, your finances are in order, and you have a clear plan for success. Whether you're building from scratch, converting a property, or developing multiple units, having the right documents ready can make all the difference.
Here’s what lenders will expect to see:
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A fully completed application form – Paperwork is unavoidable, but we’ll help make sure it’s clear, complete, and lender-friendly.
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Proof of identity, income, and address – Standard checks to verify who you are and that you’re financially stable.
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Assets and liabilities statement – Lenders want a full picture of your financial position, including any existing mortgages, loans, or assets you own.
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Bank statements (at least two months' worth) – To show your cash flow and financial stability. Some lenders may ask for six months or more, depending on the size of the loan.
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Three years of certified financial accounts – If you’re an established developer, lenders will want to see consistent financial performance. If you’re a first-time developer, having a strong team and a clear plan can help offset limited experience.
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Detailed property and project information – What are you developing? Where is it located? What’s the end goal? Expect to provide site plans, planning permissions, construction timelines, and cost breakdowns.
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Gross Development Value (GDV) projection – The estimated value of the completed project, which helps lenders calculate how much they’re willing to lend.
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Lease or tenancy agreements (if applicable) – If the property will be rented out, lenders may want proof of projected rental income.
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A well-structured business plan – Especially important for first-time developers or those working on larger projects. This should outline the development timeline, budget, schedule of works, exit strategy, and potential risks.
A Smooth Application Starts Here
Having everything in order before applying gives you a stronger chance of securing funding on the best possible terms. But if this list feels a little daunting, don’t worry—we’re here to guide you through it.
Need help structuring your application? Speak to a development finance broker today.
How Do You Shop Around for a Mortgage?
Shopping for a mortgage isn’t quite as fun as house hunting (no dreamy kitchens or sea views involved), but getting the right mortgage deal can save you thousands in the long run. Whether you’re a home mover, first-time buyer, or remortgaging, comparing mortgage deals is key to getting the best rate for your budget.
Here’s where to start:
1
Decide What Type of Mortgage You Need
Fixed-rate? Tracker? Offset? If you’re unsure, check out our guide on types of mortgages. Knowing what works for you makes comparison much easier.
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Work Out Your Loan-to-Value (LTV) Ratio
LTV is simply the percentage of the property price you’re borrowing. The lower the LTV, the better the rates.
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5% deposit = 95% LTV (higher rates, fewer choices)
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10% deposit = 90% LTV (better rates, more options)
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15%+ deposit = 85% LTV or lower (access to the best mortgage deals)
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Don’t Just Look at the Interest Rate
Banks, building societies, and specialist lenders all offer different deals—but here’s the catch: not all mortgages are advertised on comparison sites or the high street. Some of the best deals are only available through independent mortgage brokers (like us).
At Delta Mortgages, we have access to over 14,000 mortgage products from a mix of high street lenders, private banks, and specialist mortgage providers across Dorset and Hampshire.
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Compare Mortgage Rates from Different Lenders
It’s tempting to pick the mortgage with the lowest rate, but watch out for:
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Arrangement fees – Some “low-rate” mortgages charge hefty upfront fees.
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Early repayment charges – If you plan to move or remortgage early, check these fees.
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Flexibility – Need to overpay? Want a mortgage that allows you to move home and take your rate with you?
5
Speak to a Mortgage Broker
With so many lenders and products, finding the best mortgage for your situation isn’t always straightforward. A mortgage broker (oh hello! 👋🏼) can compare options, break down the jargon, and save you time and money by matching you with the right lender.
Frequently Asked Questions for Property Development Finance
Securing property development finance can feel like a maze of jargon, lender criteria, and endless paperwork—but it doesn’t have to be. Whether you’re building from scratch, converting a commercial unit into flats, or tackling a multi-unit development, understanding how funding works is key to getting the right deal.
We know that development finance isn’t an everyday topic for most people (unless you’re a broker, in which case, welcome to our world). That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the most common questions developers ask—so you can get straight answers, without the confusion.
Still got questions? No problem—our development finance brokers are just a call or a click away.
Not always—and that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Most property development finance lenders operate outside FCA regulation, which actually allows for more flexibility in lending terms. Unlike mainstream mortgages, where strict rules apply, development finance can be tailored to fit your project. But with great flexibility comes great responsibility—which is why working with a development finance broker helps ensure you’re dealing with reputable lenders and fair terms.
Yes, but you’ll need to jump through a few extra hoops. Financing property development abroad is possible, but lenders will have stricter requirements, and options will depend on location, local regulations, and currency risks. Some countries are lender-friendly, while others are red tape central. If you're looking at an overseas build, it's best to speak with a property development finance broker (hello 👋🏼) who knows the international lending landscape, so you don’t find yourself knee-deep in paperwork with no funding in sight.
Yes, but location matters. While London and major cities are lender hotspots, funding is still available for rural builds, regeneration projects, and mixed-use schemes—you just need the right lender. Some providers only fund developments in certain areas, which is why working with a broker can help you cut through the noise and match you with lenders who are actively financing projects in your region. The right postcode shouldn’t stand between you and your development.
Yes, but it depends on the lender. Unlike traditional mortgages, development finance lenders are more focused on the viability of your project and your experience as a developer than your credit score. That said, a strong credit history can help secure better rates. If your credit isn’t perfect, some lenders may still offer finance—but they might require a larger deposit, higher interest rates, or additional security. A property development finance broker can help match you with lenders who take a more flexible approach, so bad credit doesn’t mean a dead end for your development plans.
Unlike a standard mortgage, development finance isn’t released in one lump sum. Instead, it’s paid out in stages, known as drawdowns, which align with key points in your construction timeline. The first payment is usually released to secure the land and begin work, with subsequent payments made as the project progresses. Lenders will inspect the site before each stage of funding is approved, ensuring everything is on track and the money is being used as planned. Think of it as financial scaffolding—supporting you at each step of the build.
Most development finance loans are interest-only, with the interest typically rolled up into the loan and repaid in full at the end. This means you won’t need to make monthly repayments—but the longer you hold the loan, the more interest accrues. Because of this, it’s in your best interest (literally) to complete the project and repay the loan as soon as possible. Some lenders allow early repayments without penalties, which can reduce costs if your development is finished ahead of schedule.
It’s rare, but not impossible. Most lenders require developers to contribute their own capital—either as a deposit or by using another asset as security. This keeps everyone’s interests aligned and ensures the developer has a stake in the project’s success. That said, there are ways to secure up to 100% funding, typically through:
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Joint venture (JV) finance – Where a lender funds the entire project in exchange for a share of the profits.
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Additional asset security – Using another property or asset to cover the lender’s risk.
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Mezzanine finance – A second-charge loan that tops up primary development finance to reduce your upfront contribution.
If you’re looking to fund a project with minimal capital input, a development finance broker can help you explore the best options.
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The timeline depends on the complexity of the project, the lender’s due diligence process, and how quickly you can provide the required paperwork.
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For straightforward applications, funding can be secured in as little as 2–4 weeks.
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For larger or more complex developments, expect anywhere from 6–12 weeks.
Having a well-prepared application with clear financials, planning permissions, and an exit strategy will speed things up considerably. A property development finance adviser can help you avoid common delays and match you with lenders who can move quickly.
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Development finance is short-term and interest-only, meaning you don’t typically make monthly repayments. Instead, interest accrues and is settled at the end of the loan term, usually through:
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Selling the completed development (build-to-sell).
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Refinancing onto a long-term mortgage (build-to-rent).
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A mix of both—selling some units while retaining others as rental investments.
Since interest compounds over time, repaying the loan as soon as possible reduces costs. Some lenders allow early repayment without penalties, so finishing ahead of schedule can boost profitability.-
How Delta Mortgages Can Help You Secure Property Development Finance
Securing property development finance is a big step—whether you’re funding a ground-up build, a refurbishment, or a multi-unit project. But navigating the lender criteria, funding structures, and application process can be overwhelming.
At Delta Mortgages, we take the stress out of securing development finance, connecting you with specialist lenders who understand property projects. Whether you’re a first-time developer or an experienced investor, we find the right funding solution for your build, timeline, and budget.
So, here’s we make development finance simple:
Whole of Market Access
We compare specialist lenders, private banks, and structured finance providers to find the best funding for your project.
Tailored Funding Solutions
Whether you need bridging finance, mezzanine funding, or a full development loan, we match the deal to your needs.
A Smooth, Stress-Free Process
We handle the paperwork, negotiations, and lender communications, so you can focus on getting your project off the ground.
Flexible Deposit & Funding Options
Need help structuring your finance? We’ll explore options like joint ventures and alternative funding routes.
Support Beyond the Loan
From valuations and lender requirements to refinancing strategies, we guide you through every stage of your development finance journey.
Funding your development shouldn’t slow you down. Let Delta Mortgages help you secure the right finance—quickly and with zero hassle.
Meet the Team That’s Got Your Back
At Delta Mortgages, we combine decades of experience with down-to-earth support that actually helps. No scripts. No waffle. Just lovely mortgage brokers who bring clarity, calm—and a bit of personality—to every step of your journey.
Get to know the people who’ll guide you from start to keys.
The Financial Conduct Authority does not regulate Commercial lending.