As with any business, this is a lot more complicated than it initially appears with the planning system and its process needing to be understood. All development opportunites require planning permission so you’d better get up to speed on this asap if you plan on getting involved.

Another tip would be to network as much as possible with people already in the industry. Forget estate agents. I’ve NEVER seen a good deal come from a high street estate agent. Buyers want ‘off-market’ deals, not sites that have been exposed to the world. When they’re small conversion/renovation type deals they come with a whole army of competitive amatuer buyers after them. Join a local business group like BNI to really tap into the local community and deal with the people who own the land direct to retain control.