How one of Wales’ fastest-growing developers started with nothing but drive and built a purpose-led business with real impact.

Starting a property business at 16: Dorian Payne’s unconventional path

At just 16 years old, Dorian Payne launched his first lettings agency, a bold move that set the tone for a career defined by ambition, resilience, and purpose. Fast forward to today, and Dorian is the driving force behind Castell Group, one of Wales’ fastest-growing property development companies, with a £250 million pipeline focused on social and affordable housing.

But the journey from teen entrepreneur to industry leader wasn’t glamorous. It was brutal, risky, and packed with hard-won lessons rarely discussed publicly.

Property development for beginners: lessons from building a purpose-led business

In a recent episode of The Property Developer Show, Dorian opens up about what it really takes to scale a development business. He strips away the polished narrative to reveal the sacrifices, discipline, and mindset that have shaped his path. The sleepless nights. The moments of doubt. The personal stakes. All of it.

A key theme throughout the conversation is the power of purpose. For Dorian, starting with a clear “why” has been the foundation of every decision, helping him stay focused through setbacks and build long-term trust with local authorities. His partnerships are not just transactional; they’re built on a genuine commitment to delivering housing that makes a difference.

Whether you’re just starting out or deep into your property journey, Dorian’s story is a must-listen. It’s a raw, real reminder that behind every headline-making success lies years of quiet discipline, relentless learning, and doing the work that truly matters. Listen and subscribe here.