In today's episode, Jonathan and Kieron review the perception people have of property developers, addressing common misconceptions and the challenges faced by the industry. They discuss the negative stereotypes often associated with developers, such as being greedy or shady, and emphasise the importance of understanding the risks and responsibilities that come with property development. Jonathan and Kieron highlight the significant contributions developers make to local communities, including job creation and funding for public infrastructure through Section 106 agreements. KEY TAKEAWAYS There is a prevalent negative perception of developers as greedy and shady, often fuelled by misinformation and jealousy. It's important to recognise that developers are running a business and face significant risks and challenges. Developers play a crucial role in the local economy by providing jobs for various professionals, including architects, engineers, and tradespeople. They also contribute to local infrastructure through Section 106 agreements and community infrastructure levies. Engaging with the community through public consultations and open discussions can help developers build trust and transparency. Sharing the vision and benefits of a development can foster a more positive relationship with local residents. Developers face numerous challenges, including market fluctuations, rising material costs, and regulatory hurdles. These factors can impact profitability and the ability to deliver affordable housing, which is often misunderstood by the public. Successful development requires resilience and a long-term perspective. Developers must be prepared for delayed gratification, as the rewards of their efforts may not be immediate, and they need to maintain a strong vision despite public criticism. BEST MOMENTS "There's always a lot of comments from the public about developers not building affordable homes. I think affordable is a matter of perspective." "People always focus on the negative because it makes better headlines than focusing on the positive side of things." "We build houses to make money. They need to be sold or rented. They're not free." "If we weren't making any profits, it would be a non-profit organisation. That's just a charity." "Change is a difficult thing. But I find development mostly is positive change." 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.1979/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathanstobbs/ https://www.instagram.com/jonathan.stobbs/ https://www.facebook.com/kieron.shepherd.73 https://www.linkedin.com/in/kieron-shepherd-83b979aa/ https://www.instagram.com/kieron__shepherd/