How to Get Started in Property Development and Become Successful

You can always check the Louisville Home sales chart to see up-to-date results. Just last month, 1,209 homes were sold. The average home price in Louisville, Kentucky during this time was $267,708. Real estate is a good investment, as it offers opportunities to create wealth, and make passive income for a lifetime, not to mention the tax benefits. This is why many people are investing in property development. However, you need to understand the industry. Going into real estate as a developer without fully understanding what it takes to succeed is a recipe for failure. Want to become a successful real estate developer? Here’s how to get started in property development. 

Photo of heavy equipment developing land for a subdivision
Photo by Shane McLendon

1. Focus on a Specific Location

While there is potential to become a successful property developer anywhere in the country, the key to success is staying focused. Industry experts recommend choosing a property development site before anything else. Doing so helps you create an all-important focus in one area rather than waste time looking for opportunities in multiple places that might not bear any fruits.

When you focus on one location, you devote time to learn about local zoning laws and what people want. Understanding government requirements and what the locals want helps you create or adjust your property development plans accordingly. You’ll also be in a better position to analyze economic feasibility. 

2. Assess the Property Market

Once you’ve identified opportunities, conduct a real estate market analysis. Chances are, the local council wants re-development of both commercial and housing units in the area. This could be because of a change in demographics who want specific types of property. For example, the housing units available might feature two bedrooms and one bath, while the new demographic wants three-bedroom apartments with two bathrooms.

As a developer, you need to find out the type of properties in demand. That way, you can construct buildings that fit the expectations of the population in that location.

3. Learn Everything About Pre-Construction 

Pre-construction is one of the last stages of land development. There are many activities carried out during pre-construction—setting up a project team, risk analysis, reviewing designs, and budgeting.

Soil testing, land clearing, and brush removal are also essential steps of the pre-construction process. Land clearing involves removing select trees and debris on the site so contractors can begin paving and grading.   

4. Understand Why Design and Planning Matter

The design phase is one of the most critical stages in property development. It entails developing property designs and obtaining building permits. As a developer, you should search for skilled architects and reputable contractors to handle this process.

Look for professionals who understand the region’s building codes to ensure your designs are viable and all the permits are in place. Moreover, your contractors should optimize every square footage on the site to increase your return on investment. 

If you are looking to get started in property development, you want to be successful can in order to grow incredible wealth. It’s not always easy. To succeed, you must fully understand every aspect of the industry. Ensure you understand zoning laws, land development processes, and the economic feasibility of your project.