At CrowdProperty, we love working directly with property developers – building lasting relationships that grow across multiple projects – but we also recognise the immense value brokers can bring.
Whether you choose to deal directly with us or prefer to engage a trusted intermediary, we want to ensure your project is set up for success. We’ve weighed up the benefits of both routes, to help you make the right choice for you and your project.
When should you consider using a broker?
Brokers are ideal if you’re a first-time developer or relatively new to the process of securing finance. That’s not to say you can’t go direct, but if you’re unsure of the process, lack confidence, or simply don’t have much free time, brokers are a great option.
If you prioritise getting the best terms and rates brokers can also be very helpful, with access to a broad network of lenders. Similarly, if your project is complex – with unusual materials, logistical challenges, planning constraints etc. – they can help you identify the perfect lender, with the right experience.
If you have more construction experience than financial expertise, brokers can provide the market insight you need to make an informed decision. They can assess your unique situation and help you secure a tailored finance solution, aligned with the specific needs of your project.
When should you apply for finance direct?
Going direct can be the best route if you already have experience with development finance or have previously worked with a provider and had a positive experience. By going direct, you’re cutting out the middle layer, which can speed up communication, offer greater transparency, and help build a strong relationship with your lender.
This is especially beneficial if you want hands-on engagement with your finance partner, prefer to be in full control of your application, or are confident in presenting your project in its best light.
Developers with strong financial knowledge, a track record of completed projects, or a history with the provider, often prefer the direct route – as this enables faster decision-making, deeper understanding, and continuity across projects. Many developers start with a broker then now choose to work directly with providers because of the trust that’s built up during a project.
Your first project – should you go it alone?
If you’re taking on your first development project or are unfamiliar with how development finance works, the learning curve can be steep. From understanding the terminology to navigating lender criteria and structuring your application, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed.
A specialist broker can be a valuable partner in this scenario – acting as a guide through the process, helping you avoid common pitfalls, and making sure your project is presented in the best possible light. Their experience can help you build confidence and improve your chances of securing the right funding first time.
That said, going direct isn’t off the table – particularly if you’re proactive, willing to learn, and comfortable managing the process. Many lenders provide educational resources and dedicated support teams to assist first-time developers, and engaging directly can help you build knowledge and relationships that serve you well on future projects.
For some developers, especially those with transferable skills from other sectors or strong commercial instincts, going direct can be a valuable learning experience that builds long-term confidence and relationships.
Beyond rates: unlocking the best terms & true value
Every developer wants the best terms and rates. However, ‘best’ isn’t just about the headline interest rate; it’s about the full package – including fees, flexibility, and how well a lender supports you throughout your project. Both brokers and direct lenders like CrowdProperty can help you secure strong terms, depending on your experience, project type, and preferences.
If you choose to work with a broker, their deep market knowledge and lender relationships can bring additional value, particularly when comparing multiple finance options or navigating a more complex funding landscape.
Routes to securing the best deal:
- Competitive rates: A well-connected broker may be able to negotiate competitive rates and favourable terms by leveraging access to a wide range of lenders – particularly for complex or high-value projects. Equally, going direct with a trusted lender can deliver competitive pricing with the added benefit of no intermediary fees and a relationship-led approach that rewards repeat business.
- Insider insights: Brokers bring perspective across the wider market, helping you choose a lender with a strong track record for service, speed, and flexibility. Meanwhile, working directly with a lender gives you first-hand transparency into decision-making, timelines, and expectations – helping you move quickly and stay in control.
Tackling complexity: when your project demands expert funding
When your project isn’t ‘vanilla’ – perhaps involving specific project types, unconventional materials, intricate logistical challenges, or complex planning constraints – many traditional lenders might be hesitant or simply lack the appetite.
In these situations, a specialist broker can be a valuable ally – helping you navigate the market, identify lenders with a track record in similar schemes, and source creative funding solutions that match your project’s specific challenges.
Equally, going direct to an expert development lender can also prove highly effective. Specialist lenders understand the realities of delivering complex builds, and work closely with developers to structure finance around real-world project requirements.
Broadening horizons: accessing a wider world of lenders
One of the most compelling reasons to use a broker is their access to a wider range of lenders, including high street banks, challenger banks, specialist lenders, and private funds. This broad market view can help you explore a wide range of products and identify options that may not be openly advertised or directly accessible.
However, going direct can also be a powerful route – particularly if you already know the type of funding you need or have a lender in mind with a clear track record in your kind of project. Many specialist lenders offer direct access to competitive, tailored finance solutions and work closely with developers to structure funding that fits specific goals.
In both cases, it’s about securing the right deal – whether that’s achieved by comparing a wide range of lenders through a broker or building a direct relationship that brings clarity, speed, and customisation.
Either route can deliver:
- More competitive pricing: Brokers may generate competition across multiple lenders to drive down costs, while direct routes can remove intermediary fees and provide clarity on pricing from the outset.
- Specialised solutions: Brokers can help you uncover niche products suited to unusual or complex projects. Direct lenders, particularly those with sector expertise, often offer bespoke structures and hands-on support that reflect a deep understanding of your development needs.
Expert insight: Staying ahead in a dynamic market
The development finance landscape is constantly evolving – with interest rates, lender appetite, and product features shifting in response to market conditions. For developers focused on delivering projects, keeping up with these changes can be time-consuming and challenging.
A knowledgeable broker can help bridge that gap. With daily exposure to a wide range of lenders, they stay on top of trends, policy changes, and product updates – helping you navigate the market confidently and ensuring you don’t miss out on emerging opportunities.
That said, many direct lenders are also highly engaged in the market and take pride in guiding developers through the latest shifts. By building a direct relationship with an experienced lender, you may benefit from tailored advice, upfront transparency on how current conditions affect your funding, and faster decisions backed by deep sector expertise.
Free-up your time: focus on building
Development projects are complex and time-intensive, demanding your full focus on planning, procurement, site management, and delivery. The added administrative burden of arranging finance – from research and documentation to proposal writing and follow-ups – can become a significant distraction.
Working with a broker can ease that load. A good broker manages much of the process on your behalf – liaising with lenders, coordinating paperwork, and chasing updates – so you can concentrate on progressing your project without getting bogged down in admin.
Alternatively, many specialist lenders offer direct support designed to simplify the experience. With dedicated teams, streamlined application systems, and a clear point of contact throughout, going direct doesn’t necessarily mean going it alone. If you’re confident in your project and prefer to stay hands-on, direct access can be both efficient and empowering.
Construction pro, finance partner: bridging the expertise gap
Many property developers are experts in construction, design, and delivery – but may have less experience navigating the financial landscape. That’s a perfectly natural gap, especially for those who spend most of their time on site rather than in spreadsheets.
A broker can serve as your financial counterpart, translating your project vision into a compelling finance case. They’ll manage the numbers, speak the lenders’ language, and ensure your application is aligned with funding criteria – so you can focus on the build.
Equally, going direct doesn’t mean you have to do it all yourself. Many lenders offer specialist support to developers who excel at construction but need guidance on structuring finance. With the right lender, you gain not just capital, but a funding partner who understands the property lifecycle and helps bridge any knowledge gaps along the way.
Tailored finance: finding the right fit for your project
Every development project is unique and no two development journeys are the same – you need a provider that fits. What matters most is securing finance that aligns with your project’s scale, complexity, and timeline, while also fitting your personal working style and level of experience.
For some, the breadth and support offered by a broker can be invaluable – particularly when navigating the market for the first time or tackling something out of the ordinary. For others, working directly with a lender provides the speed, clarity, and relationship-building that drives long-term success across multiple projects.
Both options have merit. What’s important is choosing the path that gives you confidence, control, and a clear route to funding – whether that’s guided by a trusted intermediary or built through direct collaboration with a lender who understands what you’re trying to achieve.
Ready to discuss your next project?
At CrowdProperty, we support both brokers and developers directly – offering deep market knowledge, responsive service, and tailored funding solutions.
Whether you’re working with a broker or reaching out to us directly, you’re guaranteed access to expert-led development finance that delivers on certainty, speed, and transparency.
If you’re a broker who wants to work with us, call 0204 525 2251 or email our Broker Team.
If you’re a developer looking for funding, call 0203 012 0166 or email our Direct Team.
We’re property finance by property people. Together we build.