Are you looking to make your mark in the UK property development market? We recently spoke to four top developers at the Property Developer Show in Leeds to uncover the insights that can help you succeed. From lessons learned and mistakes to avoid, to staying motivated during tough projects, and their predictions for the 2026 property market, here’s what they revealed.

Meet the developers

Biggest lessons learned in property development

Every successful developer has learned hard lessons along the way. Here’s what our experts shared:

Ryan Malee emphasises the importance of staying vigilant:

“Don’t take things for granted. Always do your due diligence and keep your finger on the pulse of the market.”

Ryan’s advice? Always research opportunities thoroughly, hesitation can cost you big in property development.

Hayley Andrews highlights time as a critical asset:

“Value your time as well as your money. Property development is about return on time as much as return on investment.”

For Hayley, the clock is as important as the budget, plan carefully and maximise every hour.

Emma Fielding stresses the value of experience:

“Employ people who have far more experience than yourself. Build a strong team, contractors, surveyors, and solicitors, to back you all the way.”

A solid, experienced team can be the difference between a project that struggles and one that thrives.

James Cross keeps it numbers-focused:

“Know your numbers inside out. Plan ahead, account for every cost, and stress test your finances to ensure profit at the end.”

Financial clarity isn’t optional — it’s essential.

Common mistakes property developers make

Even the best developers see beginners stumble. Here’s what to watch out for:

Ryan Malee: Hesitation can kill opportunities.

“Don’t hestitate. Studies show 85% of people hesitate when faced with life-changing opportunities.”

Hayley Andrews: Underestimating timelines and budgets is a frequent error.

“Beginners often don’t give themselves enough time for projects to finish, which can lead to unexpected costs.”

Emma Fielding: Renovation and resale delays can be costly.

“Many underestimate the time it takes to sell or refinance properties. The longer your property is off the market, the more money it costs.”

James Cross: Missing hidden costs is a major pitfall.

“Not knowing your numbers correctly, or forgetting costs like stamp duty can leave you with no profit.”

In summary, avoid these mistakes:

• Act decisively, don’t hesitate
• Build realistic timelines for renovations, sales, and refinancing
• Know every cost before starting a project
• Surround yourself with experienced professionals

Staying motivated during tough projects

Property development is rarely smooth sailing. Our experts share how they keep going:

Ryan Malee says to just take small steps.

“Property is difficult. You’ll face hurdles, but a strong network and perseverance keep you moving forward.”

Property development is full of challenges, from unexpected costs and delays to navigating planning regulations, but by building a reliable network of experienced professionals and staying persistent through setbacks, you can steadily move projects forward and achieve long-term success.

Hayley Andrews just focuses on the outcome.

“Keep your eye on the prize. Delivering the project and achieving the financial goal is what keeps me going.”

Focusing on the end goal and the rewards of completing a project helps maintain motivation through challenges and ensures your decisions stay aligned with financial success.

Emma Fielding let’s passion drives her.

“I love renovating run-down properties that no one wants. Seeing the final product and pushing the ceiling price keeps me motivated.”

Transforming neglected properties into valuable, desirable homes fuels Emma’s passion, and maximising returns keeps her driven every step of the way. That’s what property development is all about, turning trash into treasure!

James Cross trust’s the process.

“Every project has ups and downs. Knowing we’ll finish and satisfy both ourselves and our investors keeps me moving forward.”

Understanding and accepting that challenges are part of every project is crucial as a developer, but trusting that completion will satisfy both personal and investor goals, helps maintain focus and momentum.

2026 UK property market predictions

Looking ahead, the market is expected to be challenging but full of opportunities:

Ryan Malee:

“Inequality will continue, the rich get richer, the poor get poorer. If you’re not in property yet, start now. Prices will rise, though expect corrections along the way.”

Hayley Andrews:

“Expect a flat market. Creative deals and negotiations will be key. Auctions are picking up, so opportunities to buy low and add value are there.”

Emma Fielding:

“It will be a slow market, I’ll be focusing on the low-end. There will be opportunities available, you just need to be open to tweaking your strategy to fit the market.”

James Cross:

“It’s tricky until the autumn budget, but I’m hopeful the sales market will improve next year. There will be opportunities for developers and investors to buy stock.”

All four developers agree that the 2026 UK property market will be challenging but will offer opportunities. Prices may rise with some corrections, the market could be flat or slow, and success will depend on being strategic, flexible, and ready to act on creative deals or undervalued properties.

Key takeaways for property developers

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced investor, these insights can guide your strategy:

1. Do your due diligence – Research and plan every step.
2. Build the right team –-Experienced contractors, surveyors, and solicitors are invaluable. You’re not supposed to know everything, just make sure the people you hire are experts in their niche.
3. Manage your time – Underestimating timelines can be costly.
4. Know your numbers – Account for all costs, from refurbishment to stamp duty.
5. Adapt to the market – Adjust your strategy to fit changing conditions.

By learning from the successes and mistakes of established developers, you can navigate the UK property market in 2026 with confidence.

Stay ahead of the curve by joining us at our 2026 property events. Be the first to know when tickets are released by joining the waitlist. Connect with industry leaders, gain insights from expert speakers, and network with developers, investors, and professionals across the sector. Whether you’re new to property or growing your portfolio, our events are designed to keep you informed, inspired, and connected.