Thinking of becoming a Property Developer? Here are 10 tips to help you get it right.
The Australian property market continues to attract aspiring developers hoping to capitalise on the next big opportunity. But while the potential rewards are real the journey from idea to a completed project is rarely as straight forward as it seems especially for first time developers.
At 756Group we’re a Sydney based property development company that works with novice and experienced developers alike. Whether you are seeking a DA approval, managing a complex build, or dealing with a distressed property, our development management services are designed to help you succeed at every stage.
If you are just getting started here are 10 smart, practical tips to keep your first project on track and moving towards profit.
Treat Development like a Business
Property development isn’t a side hustle, it is a full-scale business. It involves risk, planning, contracts, budgeting, and timelines. Set yourself up with that mindset and you’ll avoid many rookie errors.
Know your Numbers
Before you commit, run a full feasibility. Know your land acquisition costs, build costs, holding costs, soft costs (consultant and approval costs), and expected return. If you are unsure partner with a team like ours to help model your deal and access viability.
Build the Right Team Early
Engage professionals who know the local market and approach process. These include planners, architects, builders and certifiers, just to name a few. With the right team and construction project management your project stands a far better chance of being delivered on time and on budget.
Approve and Pay Invoices Promptly
Delays in payment lead to delays on site. Maintaining good cash flow and honouring payment terms ensures a smooth build and keeps your trades and consultants motivated. Trust us – this one is underestimated but critical.
Plan for Delays
Even with the best team, things happen, whether it is bad weather, council setbacks, or supply chain issues. Build time buffers into your program and have contingency funding in place to absorb unexpected costs without derailing your project. A solid risk management plan identifies likely risks early, outlines how you’ll respond to them, and ensures your team knows the escalation process. This proactive approach helps keep your project under control when challenges inevitably arise.
Understand the Approval Process
Every step, whether it is securing a Development Application, Construction Certificate, or Building Approval, has it’s own timing, requirements and potential roadblocks. Don’t get caught out by incomplete documentation, misaligned consultants, or simply not allowing enough time for council processing or responses.
At 756Group we stay ahead of these challenges by coordinating your consultants, tracking key deadlines, and ensuring your plans align with local planning controls from day one. Our team manages the full approvals timeline so your project keeps moving, in turn reducing delays, minimising risk, and saving you money in the long run.
Don’t Overdesign
Design for the market, not your dream home. Overcapitalizing on finishes or layouts that won’t return value is a classic first-timer’s mistake. Keep it clean, functional, and desirable for your target buyer.
Be Involved, Not Overbearing
Show up, ask questions, know what’s happening on site or with the project, but avoid micromanaging – let your professionals do their jobs. A good development management company will keep you informed without dragging you into the daily grind.
Keep Everything Documented
From contracts and approvals to invoices and variations – keep it all organised and accessible. Clear documentation protects you legally, helps manage costs, and avoids confusion between parties. It also makes the entire process more streamlined, allowing your development manager and consultants to make faster, more informed decisions. When everyone is working from the same up-to-date information you reduce delays, disputes, and costly rework.
Partner with Experts who Know the Process
At 756Group we help first-time and seasoned developers get through the critical stages, whether it is obtaining approvals, navigating the build, or achieving Occupation Certificates. We also assist with development funding solutions and can step in to manage distressed property projects that need a professional rescue.
Be Honest with your Team
Development projects are complex, and surprises do happen, but honesty helps everyone stay ahead of the curve. Whether it is financial pressures, delays, or design changes, being upfront with your development management team makes it much easier to navigate challenges without derailing the project.
At 756Group we are not here to judge – we’re here to help you achieve the best possible outcome for your financial goals. The more we know the more we can do to protect your time, budget and vision.
The early stages of a development career are full of opportunities, and also potential pitfalls. With the right support you can avoid costly mistakes and focus on building lasting success.
At 756Group our mission is to guide you through every step of the process with clarity, confidence, and expert support.
Talk to our team today about how our development management services can help turn your first (or next) project into a success.
