For many small-scale developers, the property journey is as exciting as it is daunting. You have the vision, the experience, and the ambition but the path to getting projects off the ground can often feel like a maze of red tape, uncertain lenders, and missed opportunities.
At Assetz Capital, we know this story well. In fact, we’ve built an entire product, Assetz Elevate, around the very challenges that small developers face. But before we dive into the solution, let’s pause and look at the hurdles standing in your way.
The Challenges Small Developers Face
1. Access to the right finance
Traditional lenders often overlook smaller projects, favouring larger-scale developments. For a developer with schemes in the £250k–£1.5m range, it can feel like banging on closed doors. The result? Time wasted and opportunities missed.
2. Speed and certainty of funding
When you’ve secured the perfect site or lined up a planning opportunity, delays in finance can be costly. Missed deadlines, slow decision-making, or lenders who move the goalposts at the last minute can undermine your confidence and your project.
3. Cash flow pressure
Smaller developers don’t always have the same depth of reserves as the big players. Drawdown delays or inflexible loan structures can create a constant juggling act, distracting you from focusing on building homes.
4. Building trust with lenders
Relationships matter. Yet many small developers find themselves treated as ‘too small’ to warrant genuine partnership, left navigating faceless processes that feel anything but personal.
What Small Developers Really Want
Behind every small developer lies a bigger goal:
- To deliver quality schemes without sleepless nights about finance
- To work with partners who understand their scale and ambition
- To grow steadily and sustainably, building a track record that opens more doors in the future
Ultimately, it’s about confidence and peace of mind knowing that the funding side is taken care of so you can do what you do best: developing great property.
How Assetz Elevate Supports Small Developers
This is where Assetz Elevate makes a difference. We’ve designed it with the reality of small developers in mind:
- Right-sized funding: From £250k to £1.5m, Elevate is tailored for the scale of projects small developers actually run.
- Speed and certainty: Our processes are designed to move quickly, with a clear pathway to decision-making so you’re never left in limbo.
- Relationship-driven: You’ll deal directly with experienced Relationship Directors who understand the SME market and can guide you through every step.
- Track record building: By supporting smaller schemes now, we help you establish the credibility and experience that opens up bigger opportunities in the future.
In other words, it’s not just about finance, it’s about building a partnership that grows with you.
Practical Tips for Navigating Development Finance
Whether you work with us or not, here are a few pointers that can make your financing journey smoother:
1. Be clear on your numbers – Funders will always scrutinise costs and contingencies. Having a detailed, realistic appraisal is a game-changer.
2. Tell your story – Share your track record, however modest. Completed projects and lessons learned add weight to your case.
3. Plan for the unexpected – Build in buffers for both time and money. Delays and overruns happen, and lenders look favourably on developers who plan responsibly.
4. Choose partners, not just products – The right lender should be invested in your success, not just the transaction. Seek out those who see your potential, not just your numbers.
Why We’re the Natural Partner
At Assetz Capital, we believe smaller developers are the backbone of the UK property market. You bring energy, creativity, and local impact and you deserve a finance partner who values that.
Our vision is simple: to give you the confidence to build, knowing your finance is in safe hands. With Assetz Elevate, you’re not just securing a loan, you’re gaining a partner who understands your ambitions, supports your growth, and provides the peace of mind you need to focus on what matters most.
Ready to Elevate Your Next Project?
If you’re a small developer looking for a finance solution that truly fits your world, discover how Assetz Elevate can help you take your next step with confidence.
We’re offering property finance loans from £250k to £1.5 million, specifically tailored for smaller residential schemes. Backed by our extensive experience in development finance and supported by a newly established specialist New Business Team, Assetz Elevate gives brokers and developers a clear route to fast, expert-backed lending.
Key Features
✔️ Loan sizes from £250k to £1.5m
✔️ Up to 70% LTGDV and 85% LTC
✔️ Tailored for ground-up developments of 1–15 units
✔️ Dedicated New Business Team for all enquiries
✔️ 24 hour credit-backed terms
✔️ Available across England and Wales
Designed for Speed. Delivered with Certainty.
Let’s Talk
If you’re eyeing a new site, scaling up your pipeline, or simply want a partner who listens, we’re ready. Reach out to your local Relationship Director or speak to our new business team today.
📞 0800 470 0430
📧 [email protected]
