Development Loan
This can be a new build, conversion or refurbishment covering a single unit through to multiple units built across a number of phases.
A development loan is a short-term funding option, usually for between 6-24 months. It is designed specifically to assist with the purchase costs and build costs associated with a residential or commercial development project.
Investment Loan
An investment loan is usually for a longer term than a development loan and can be used to fund the long term ownership of a commercial property to produce a rental income from such property types:
The first element of the funding will ordinarily be used to assist with the purchase of your development site. This may be land where a number of new properties will be built or an existing property that will undergo a refurbishment.
The second stage of the loan is used to pay for the costs of the build works associated with your project. This is usually drawn in stages, as opposed to being given in one amount at the outset. This often happens once a month as works are completed on the project.

How can I calculate how much funding may be available to me?
The amount of funding that can be provided will be determined by a professional valuation report that provides 3 key numbers:
Current value – i.e. the value of the site with planning or the value of the property prior to refurbishment Build costs
Gross development value (GDV) – i.e. the value of the completed property(s) assuming all works have completed satisfactorily.
Each lender has their own lending parameters that determines the maximum that can be lent.
Each transaction is assessed individually but the funding must be structured in a way to make sure there is enough funding in place to complete the build in its entirety.
What is usual term for Development Finance?
Most development loans will be for a period of up to 24 months, but this will be dependent on the nature of the scheme being funded.
A straight forward refurbishment loan may only be required for 6 months, whereas a multi-unit new build may require 24 months. The term of the loan will allow time for the property to be purchased, developed and then sold or refinanced to repay the debt.
How to repay Development Finance
There are several ways that you can repay your Development Finance loan: