Thriving in Tough Property Markets: Insider Strategies from the Experts

The Business Magazine Property Podcast

In this episode, Stephen Emerson of The Business Magazine is joined by real estate finance expert Lee Merrifield of MSP Capital, property surveyor Nicola King of Wellington King Chartered Surveyors, and commercial real estate lawyer David Fanchi of Lester Aldridge Solicitors.
The discussion focuses on navigating the current swollen property market conditions. Key points covered include:
- Reasons for cautious optimism as interest rates and inflation are expected to decline later in 2023, improving liquidity.
- Risks from geopolitical instability, economic uncertainty, and potential overreaction/self-fulfilling prophecies about recessions.
- Advice for developers stuck with unsold properties, including exploring equity release options and open communication with lenders/professionals.
- Importance of developers clearly identifying their target buyer and having a marketing strategy from the outset.
- Common pitfalls like unrealistic construction budgets and failure to account for rising costs.
- Qualities of successful developers who remain realistic, take professional advice, and adapt to changing market conditions.
- Outlook for 2024 depending on factors like the UK election, potential planning reforms, and continuation of sustainability trends.
The guests share their motivations around helping people through complex property transactions and playing a role in completed developments.
If you are listening on Spotify, please do leave your thoughts, or questions, in the comments section.