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Category: Development

Shawbrook Expands Development Finance Team in South East
In this article:
Shawbrook Bank has bolstered its development finance team in the South East by hiring Joseph Wilson and Aaron Cummings. Their addition aims to enhance Shawbrook’s support for developers and brokers in a region witnessing ongoing demand for specialist funding.

TL;DR: Shawbrook has added two experienced professionals to its development finance team; this move strengthens its support for developers and brokers in the South East.

Who are the new team members?

Joseph Wilson brings extensive experience in banking and property finance, focusing on managing complex transactions and fostering relationships within the sector. Aaron Cummings has a background in development finance, underwriting, and portfolio lending, which complements Wilson’s expertise. Their combined skills are expected to enhance Shawbrook’s service offerings.

What does this mean for development finance in the South East?

The South East remains a critical area for development activity, and Shawbrook’s expansion reflects a commitment to meeting the needs of local developers. The new hires are positioned to strengthen relationships and provide tailored support to those seeking funding in this dynamic market.

What this means for developers and brokers

Developers and brokers in the South East can expect improved access to specialist funding solutions as Shawbrook enhances its team. The bank’s focus on relationship-led service is likely to facilitate smoother transactions and better alignment with developers’ needs, fostering confidence in project financing.

Frequently asked questions

How will the new hires impact development finance?

The addition of Wilson and Cummings is expected to enhance Shawbrook’s ability to support developers with tailored financing solutions, improving overall service quality.

What trends are influencing development finance in the South East?

Continued levels of development activity and demand for specialist funding are driving growth in the South East, highlighting the importance of responsive financial support.
June 3, 2026
Shawbrook Expands Development Finance Team in South East
In this article:
Shawbrook Bank has strengthened its development finance team in the South East by appointing Joseph Wilson and Aaron Cummings. This move is significant as it enhances the bank’s ability to support developers and brokers in a region experiencing robust demand for specialist funding.

TL;DR: Shawbrook has added two experienced professionals to its development finance team; this bolsters support for developers and brokers in the South East, a key area for ongoing development activity.

Who are the new team members?

Joseph Wilson brings extensive banking and property finance experience, focusing on both residential and commercial real estate lending. His background includes managing complex property transactions and building strong client relationships. Aaron Cummings has a solid foundation in development finance, having worked in underwriting and portfolio lending roles. Their combined expertise is expected to enhance Shawbrook’s service offerings.

What does this mean for development finance?

The addition of Wilson and Cummings is poised to strengthen Shawbrook’s development finance division. The bank aims to enhance its relationship-led approach, which is important for navigating the complexities of development finance.

What this means for developers and brokers

Developers and brokers in the South East can expect increased support and tailored solutions from Shawbrook. This could lead to more confidence among developers in securing necessary funding for their projects.

Frequently asked questions

How can I access development finance through Shawbrook?

Developers can reach out directly to Shawbrook’s development finance team for tailored funding solutions that cater to their specific project needs.

What trends are currently influencing development finance?

Ongoing demand for specialist funding and a focus on relationship-driven service are key trends shaping the development finance market in the UK.
June 2, 2026
Shawbrook Hits £3bn Milestone in Development Finance
In this article:
Shawbrook Bank has reached a significant milestone by surpassing £3 billion in development finance, marking a decade since the establishment of its development finance division. This achievement highlights the bank’s role in supporting over 800 projects, contributing to the delivery of more than 11,000 homes and 1,400 purpose-built student units across the UK.

TL;DR: Shawbrook has exceeded £3 billion in development finance, aiding over 800 projects and 11,000 homes; this trend underscores the growing reliance on specialist finance among property developers.

What is Development Finance?

Development finance is a type of funding specifically designed to support property developers in the construction of residential, commercial, and mixed-use properties. It can cover various costs, including land acquisition, construction, and associated fees. Shawbrook’s recent activity spans diverse sectors, including high-end residential projects and sustainable housing initiatives, reflecting the evolving market of property development.

Why Is This Milestone Important?

This £3 billion milestone signifies not just Shawbrook’s growth but also the increasing demand for flexible and tailored financing solutions in the property market. As developers face challenges such as rising costs and slower planning processes, specialist finance providers like Shawbrook are becoming critical in addressing these issues. The bank’s commitment to financing diverse projects indicates a shift towards accommodating a broader range of development needs.

What This Means for Developers

For property developers, especially mid-sized firms, Shawbrook’s success highlights a growing opportunity to access funding that aligns with their specific needs. According to recent research, 50% of mid-sized developers feel disconnected from traditional lending criteria, which can hinder their ability to secure financing. Shawbrook’s approach offers a more adaptable solution, allowing developers to navigate the current market’s complexities with greater confidence.

Frequently Asked Questions

What types of projects does Shawbrook finance?

Shawbrook finances a wide range of projects, including residential, commercial, co-living, and care sector developments. Recent notable projects include luxury homes in St Andrews and a £13 million apartment scheme in Wimbledon.

How can developers benefit from Shawbrook’s development finance?

Developers can benefit from Shawbrook’s development finance by gaining access to tailored funding solutions that address their unique project requirements, helping them manage cost inflation and streamline their development processes.
May 20, 2026
UK Property Development Finance: A Complete Guide
TL;DR: Everything you need to know about development finance in the UK — from application to drawdown, covering rates, GDV calculations, experience requirements, and lender criteria.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Mezzanine Finance: How It Works for Property Development
TL;DR: How mezzanine finance works alongside senior debt in property development, typical costs, when to use it, and how it affects your returns and risk profile.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Development Finance Rates 2026: How Lenders Price Risk
TL;DR: Current development finance rates in the UK for 2026, how lenders price risk based on GDV, experience, location, and project type. Reduce your costs with these strategies.

Key Takeaways
- Specialist brokers can access deals not available on comparison sites or the high street
- Every borrower’s situation is different — criteria vary significantly between lenders
- Getting the right advice early saves time, money, and rejected applications
What You Need to Know

This is a topic that many borrowers find confusing, and for good reason — the criteria and options vary significantly depending on your circumstances, the property, and the lender. In this guide, we break down everything you need to know to make an informed decision.

Whether you’re a first-time applicant or an experienced investor, understanding the landscape will help you secure the best possible deal. The UK mortgage market offers more specialist products than most people realise, but accessing them often requires expert guidance.

How It Works

The process typically starts with understanding your options and getting an agreement in principle. From there, a specialist broker can match you with lenders whose criteria fit your specific situation — something that’s particularly important in specialist lending where one-size-fits-all approaches rarely work.

Lender criteria in this area can be surprisingly varied. What one lender rejects, another may actively welcome. This is why working with a broker who specialises in this area can make the difference between approval and rejection.

Finding the Right Broker

A specialist mortgage broker with experience in this area can save you time and money by matching you with the right lender first time. They’ll understand the nuances that generalist brokers might miss, and they’ll have relationships with lenders who specialise in exactly this type of lending.

Find a specialist broker on Mortgage118 — compare whole-of-market brokers who specialise in this area, read verified reviews, and get matched with an expert who understands your needs.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I find a specialist broker for this type of mortgage?

Use a broker directory like Mortgage118 to search for brokers who specialise in this area. Look for whole-of-market brokers with specific experience and verified client reviews.

How long does the application process take?

Timelines vary depending on the complexity of your application and the lender. A straightforward case might complete in 4-6 weeks, while more complex situations could take 8-12 weeks. Your broker will give you a realistic timeline upfront.

Do I need a larger deposit for specialist mortgages?

It depends on the type of mortgage and your circumstances. Some specialist products require higher deposits than standard residential mortgages, but there are options across a range of LTVs. A broker can advise on what’s realistic for your situation.

Your home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your mortgage.

Article reviewed by David Sampson, CeMAP qualified mortgage specialist.
March 30, 2026
Development Finance: Complete Guide for Property Developers

# Development Finance: Complete Guide for Property Developers

Development finance provides funding for property development projects, from land acquisition to construction completion.

## What is Development Finance?

Development finance is a short-term loan designed specifically for property development projects, covering land purchase and construction costs.

## Types of Development Projects

### Residential Development
– **New build homes**
– **Apartment complexes**
– **Mixed-use developments**
– **Self-build projects**

### Commercial Development
– **Office buildings**
– **Retail developments**
– **Industrial units**
– **Warehouses**

*Planning a development project? Our specialist brokers can help you secure the right development finance.*

September 29, 2025