In this episode, Jonathan and Kieron sit down for an interview with Jo Morgan, a partner at Coodes Solicitors, Head of their commercial property development department. Jo shares her insights on the critical legal aspects of property development, emphasising the importance of thorough due diligence and the potential pitfalls developers often encounter. They covers essential topics such as the significance of heads of terms, the necessity of bespoke contracts, and the common legal mistakes that can derail projects. KEY TAKEAWAYS Developers should conduct thorough due diligence on services and access before committing to a deal. This includes checking utility searches and understanding the implications of planning conditions. Establishing clear heads of terms is crucial. It helps streamline negotiations and ensures that all parties are on the same page regarding the terms of the deal, preventing costly delays and misunderstandings later on. Engaging a solicitor who specialises in property development is essential. They bring valuable local knowledge and expertise that can help navigate complex legal issues and avoid potential pitfalls. Contracts should be detailed and precise to avoid ambiguity. Developers must pay close attention to clauses related to deposits, best endeavours, and timing to ensure they can meet their obligations and avoid disputes. Maintaining good relationships with sellers and other parties involved in the deal can be beneficial. Trust can influence negotiations and lead to smoother transactions, as sellers may prefer working with developers they trust over those offering the highest bid. BEST MOMENTS "Most of my clients would say to me, Jo, can you just make it as simple as possible? But the reality is you want to be able to rely upon the detail of it." "We know legal and compliance can make or break a project. So today we're here going to dig into what developers need to know before signing anything." "If there's been long, difficult negotiations to get to heads of terms, that's usually a red flag. A difficult seller can end up cost spiralling." "When it comes to heads of terms, converting that into a legal contract does seem to overcomplicate things from a layman's point of view." "Always check your plan. I've seen the red line go far beyond what the seller actually owns, which can be problematic." HOST BIOS Jonathan is a property developer and entrepreneur with a background in finance and construction. Originally from South Africa, he holds degrees in Accounting and Auditing and relocated to England in 2003. He gained financial and operational experience at firms such as RSM, Prudential, and Baker Tilly before transitioning into property. Since 2014, Jonathan has managed major commercial-to-residential conversions and new build developments, particularly across the South West. His analytical mindset and on-the-ground experience help listeners navigate the property world with confidence. Kieron is a construction expert and entrepreneur with over 20 years of industry experience. Starting as a mason, he went on to found Shepherd Construction in 2012, delivering projects across both the public and private sectors. From extensions to luxury new builds, Kieron has earned a reputation for quality, precision, and strong leadership. As Managing Director, he’s involved in every stage—from design to delivery—offering a no-nonsense, deeply practical perspective to anyone looking to build with success. https://www.facebook.com/jonathan.stobbs.7/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/ https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.propertydevelopersplaybook.co.uk/ https://coodes.co.uk/profile/jo-morgan/