Guides
Real estate development, explained step by step.
Everything a first-time developer needs, grouped into plain-English guides. Start with the fundamentals or jump straight to the numbers.
How to become a real estate developer
You do not need a construction background or a general contractor license to become a real estate developer. You need a good deal and a process to underwrite it.
Read the guide · 8 videos →The 7 StepsThe 7 steps to build a house
Every ground-up build follows the same seven steps: find the lot, run the numbers, draw the plans, pull permits, secure financing, manage construction, and sell. The sequence never changes; only the market around it does.
Read the guide · 9 videos →Numbers & DealsHow to underwrite a development deal
You underwrite a development deal by reverse-engineering from the final sale price. Subtract construction, land, financing, and selling costs to find your profit.
Read the guide · 6 videos →FinancingConstruction loans and financing a build
A construction loan funds a build in stages, releasing money as milestones are hit rather than all at once. Your lender is a silent partner covering 80% to 90% of the cost, and on-draw interest means you only pay interest on money actually deployed.
Read the guide · 2 videos →ConstructionManaging the construction phase
In the construction phase you manage the builder, not the subcontractors. The builder runs the crews; you approve finishes, monitor the budget against the plan, and release payment only when milestones are met.
Read the guide · 2 videos →Personal HomeBuilding your own home as an owner-builder
Building your own home as an owner-builder can require as little as 5% down, versus the larger equity a pure investment build needs. You act as the developer on your own primary residence, with the same seven steps and better loan terms.
Read the guide · 3 videos →Larger ProjectsInfill, subdivisions, and multi-unit development
Once you have a build or two behind you, the same process scales to infill lots, duplexes, townhomes, and subdivisions. The seven steps do not change; the underwriting, financing, and phasing get more complex.
Read the guide · 6 videos →Day in the LifeA developer's day: what the work really looks like
A developer's day is mostly phone calls, numbers, and site checks, not physical labor. You are sourcing deals, underwriting, coordinating drafters and lenders, and walking active job sites.
Read the guide · 4 videos →