When it comes to property development, one of the biggest areas where new and experienced developers alike go wrong is in the refurb. Whether you’re working on a light refresh or a full-scale renovation, managing the process with clarity, confidence, and control can make or break your project.

In this episode of the Property Developer Show – The Podcast, we speak with Tony Walker, Founder and Director of Help Build Ltd. With over 17 years of experience running everything from modest refurbs to £1 million+ developments, Tony knows exactly what it takes to deliver a successful build, without blowing your budget or losing your mind.

Why refurb projects go wrong

Tony breaks down why so many developers get their numbers wrong early on. One of the biggest culprits? Relying on square metre rates. While they can offer a ballpark figure, they’re rarely accurate and don’t account for the complexities hidden behind walls, under floors, or in outdated systems.

Instead, Tony explains how to create a schedule of works that reflects the real demands of your project, and how to build this into your budgeting process from the very start.

Contractors, subcontractors, and building the right team

Another key focus of our conversation is the people you choose to work with. Tony clarifies the difference between contractors and subcontractors, shares how to vet your trades properly, and talks through the steps he takes to build long-term relationships with contractors he trusts.

He also covers how to structure payments to protect your project and why doing your own due diligence is non-negotiable.

Just finished a property course? Start here

If you’re fresh out of a property course and feeling overwhelmed by what comes next, Tony offers a grounded, realistic approach. Rather than rushing into deals or outsourcing everything, he encourages new developers to get familiar with the process, understand where their money is going, and treat each project like a business from day one.

Practical, no-nonsense advice for developers

This episode is packed with insights you won’t find in theory-based books or cookie-cutter training. It’s a real-world, experience-led discussion about what actually works and what doesn’t, on live refurb projects.

Watch and subscribe now.