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SME developer index revealed to combat poor reputation

An index of 100 SME developers has been compiled as part of a campaign to help improve the perception of the industry.

The Real Developer Campaign, which was launched in autumn 2019, has created the Real Developer Index, a collection of 100 SME property developers that are helping to build the homes and places the UK needs.

Alex Harrington-Griffin, founder of TrustedLand and the campaign, said: “Experience counts for so much in this industry. Despite coming from a development family, I realised a while ago that first-hand experience of the hugely varied and complex world of development is vital to sustain a successful development business.

“Shining the spotlight on the incredible track record of the firms featured in the 2020 Index gives us, and the industry, the opportunity to recognise some of the established and credible professionals in the space.”

TrustedLand partnered with proptech firm LandTech to launch the campaign last year in a bid to highlight the contribution of quality SME housebuilders and help them connect with top land agents throughout the UK.

LandTech chief executive Jonny Britton said: “Property development is a high-risk industry, but with massive potential profits available. That combination can attract reckless short-term thinking opportunists looking to turn a quick profit in an expanding economy.

“Unfortunately, it only takes a couple of these bad apples and a few negative headlines to tarnish a developer’s image. That’s why the Real Developer Campaign is so important. It’s a way for quality property developers to stand out and highlight the excellent work they are doing. It’s a badge of honour to show that they embrace transparency, accountability and long-term thinking.”

The list of 100 established SME developers with a solid track record in the South East has been approved by TrustedLand using a range of criteria – including the review of 414 development sites that have resulted in more than 11,000 new homes. Developers highlighted in the Index include Acorn Group, Regal London, Pocket Living, Goldcrest and Henley Homes.

Among the 100 developers featured in the index, the average age of firms was 19 years, with the majority focusing their efforts on new-build residential property, specifically apartments.

Click below to listen to an interview with Harrington-Griffin and Britton about the need for the index.

To send feedback, e-mail samantha.mcclary@egi.co.uk or tweet @samanthamcclary or @estatesgazette

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