61 of the Best Property Development Books

Created by prolific and highly experienced house building specialist Mark Brinkley, this publication is hailed as the UK’s best selling house building guide – having sold over 200,000 copies.

Now in its 14th edition, the book is a practical, accessible and highly valuable reference for house builders of all backgrounds and levels, from “DIY-ers” to architects, contractors and surveyors.

Along with presenting handy case studies, the publication guides the reader step-by-step through a build, covering the following areas:

• Understanding the “model” house
• Recognising potential pitfalls
• Effective approaches to design
• Project management methods
• Tackling the groundworks
• Moving on to the superstructure
• Heating, powering and connecting-up a property
• Finishing

Influential property developer Lloyd Girardi draws on his own extensive experience in sourcing sites and developing property to put together this exceptional 2018 guide to running well-planned, intelligent and profitable business.

The book advises would-be developers and investors on every step of the process, from start to completion. Readers will learn:

• The best ways to launch a property development business
• A range of organisational structuring options
• Finding sites (direct to vendor, auctions, networking etc.)
• About all kinds of potential sources of capital
• Approaches to building the best possible team
• Refinancing techniques
• Numerous property “secrets” that will give them the edge against competitors

Project manager and specialist in Urban Land Economics Ben Stevens introduces readers to the life of a building project, from the initial planning stages right through to completion.

Published in 2021, the book offers a superb insight into the process of designing, developing and constructing a building, and offers a wide range of learning outcomes that are suitable for anyone interested in architecture and real estate development.

These learning outcomes include:

• A detailed exploration of why people build
• An exploration of the various stages of a building project
• Analogies from life to aid in the reader’s understanding of every process
• Interdisciplinary insights that are applicable to a range of fields

This hugely handy “pocket guide” does just what it says on the cover, offering a condensed, step by step “handbook” covering everything you need to know about property development in an actionable format.

Published in 2019 by Richard Little and Brynley Little, the book guides current and future property developers through a range of processes, setting them on the path to success. The Housebuilding Handbook teaches readers:

• How to avoid the most common property development mistakes
• Ways to identify and bag the best deals
• Strategies to ensure the best return and to mitigate risk
• Methods of weathering economic crises
• Techniques for building a property development company that will last

Ex-Silicon Valley manager and real estate investor J Scott’s comprehensive 2022 guide on the practice of flipping houses offers engaging and easy-to-follow advice that promises to aid the reader in their quest to leave their 9-5 and grow their wealth independently in property.

Applicable in almost any economic context, the book provides actionable advice on the following subjects and more:

• Common strategies used to finance property “flips” and how to use them
• Property buying strategies;
• How to assess potential profits and losses when analysing a deal
• Deciding which properties will make the best investments
• Undertaking due diligence
• Picking the right locations
• Balancing your projects, business and budget for ongoing profit
• Selecting the right contractors
• Selling fast for the best price

An up to date sixth edition of a 40-year-old seminal text in the world of building construction, this publication by Francis D.K. Ching is a vital addition to any developer’s bookshelf.

Suitable for any reader, from first-year students to practising professionals, Building Construction Illustrated provides clear, accessible and detailed guidance on all matters related to the design and creation of buildings, including up to date regulations and codes.

The book includes introductions to – and explorations of:

• The site itself
• Planning a building
• Foundations
• Flooring
• Walls
• Roofs
• Insulation and the prevention of damp and condensation
• Doors
• Windows
• Finishes
• Services
• Materials

Veteran building surveyor Philip Fitzpatrick offers vital insights into the various stages of a project in this hugely practical and highly accessible series of books.

Fitzpatrick takes the reader from the very beginning of a project right through to the receipt of planning permission in Book 1, drawing on his own extensive experience throughout.

A “straight talking” publication, first taken to print in 2021, the book covers topics such as:

• How to work with building designers
• Legalities involved in building and property developing
• Zoning
• Compliance with planning regulations
• Green tech in the construction world
• Budgeting for your build

This is book 2 in Philip Fitzpatrick’s Builder’s Companion series – the first volume of which is included in this list just above.

The 2021 publication builds on the fundamental knowledge gained by readers in book 1, and guides the developer further along the process of building a property.

The Builder’s Companion, Book 2 covers topics such as:

• Ways to make your design unique
• How to build something that is environmentally sustainable
• Approaches to effective site management
• The importance of quality
• Ways to recognise a good deal

Stephen Emmitt, academic and specialist in architectural management and architectural technology, created this 2018 book to introduce readers to the full process of construction – chiefly of residential properties.

Ideal for undergraduate students or those working towards an NQF level 5 and 6, this publication contains plenty of extremely useful and practical information for learners and professionals of almost any level.

This fourth edition publication offers a range of vital takeaways, including:

• The key processes and principles of construction
• A clear guide to site analysis and set-up
• Methods to approach drainage systems
• Setting up scaffolding
• Understanding foundations and ground stability
• The construction of floors, walls, doors, windows, roofs, stairs and ramps
• A guide to finishes
• Energy and water supply options
• Sanitation methods

Countless property developers throughout history have expressed their frustration that there is no rulebook on how to successfully apply for planning permission – but now there is!

Chartered planning consultant and chief executive of Just Planning, Martin Gaine, presents this superbly accessible guide to one of the most challenging areas of property development: presenting a planning application and getting it approved first time.

The 2021 book offers advice on the following subjects:

• Selecting a designer
• Understanding when permission is required and when it is not (by exploring Permitted Developments)
• Insights into the decisions made by planners
• The application of specialist tactics for the best results every time
• How to respond to permission denial
• Preventing situations that involve enforcement

A vital, definitive guide to planning permission and how to successfully apply for it has long been missing from the toolkit of the majority of property developers.

However, thanks to the shrewd minds of property specialists Roy Speer and Michael Dade, the 5th edition of How to Get Planning Permission was published in 2016 and offers clear guidance on almost everything there is to know about the subject.

The co-authors cover essential topics in this publication, including:

• Methods to improve the likelihood that your application will be successful
• The best ways to counter objections and reverse refusals
• A clear guide to your rights when it comes to Permitted Developments
• Top techniques to use when appealing a refusal

Developed and published by leading development and property law specialists Adam Sheppard, Deborah Peel, Heather Richie and Sophie Berry, this book, published in 2017, offers definitive guidance on some complex subject matter.

With an accessibility that renders it ideal for students of real estate business and law as well as the owners of property businesses currently in operation, The Essential Guide to Planning Law offers a clear insight into a perfect marriage between theory and practice.

Whatever their existing level of expertise when it comes to planning law, the publication enables readers to develop a strong grasp of the topic, covering subject matter such as:

• How planning law was and is developed
• The ways in which planning laws function in the “devolved” UK
• Management methods in property development
• The conditions and obligations associated with planning
• How to tackle specialist planning matters
• Enforcement
• How to approach appeals and Judicial Review

First published in 2017 and now updated to reflect changes implemented in 2020, this book – by planning law expert Martin H Goodall – serves as a practical handbook covering use classes and changes of use.

Accessible for all property professionals, whatever the stage of their career, the book provides a vital insight into an area of planning that can at times feel impenetrable.

The contents include clear details on:

• The Use Classes Order
• Permitted Changes of Use
• Unlawful Uses
• Lawful Use Certificates
• Appeals against the refusal of LUC applications

Another expertly-realised publication on the subject of planning, this book was published by Dr. William Hogan-O’Neill of RIBA in 2022.

The publication talks readers through the preparation of a submission for planning permission and offers essential guidance on the process of applying for – and being granted – that permission.

Whether you’re applying to develop a single building, an extension, or anything else besides, Hogan-O’Neill’s book constitutes vital reading to help you navigate the process. It will provide you with valuable advice along the way, including:

• Understanding the strengths, weaknesses and potential of your parcel of land or existing property
• Recognising the particular planning considerations that will need to be taken into account for your unique project
• Assembling a strong toolkit in preparation for your application
• Understanding the necessity for architectural value and articulate language to be utilised in your submission
• Developing a working knowledge of the specific areas your local authority is most likely to examine – and how to strengthen your application at those particular points

From first-year students to experienced professionals, individuals at all stages of their journey within the property industry swear by Chudley and Greeno’s Building Construction Handbook. 

For this reason, the publication is now in its 14th edition (as of April 2020) and continues to offer straightforward and transparent guidance on all areas of property development and building.

The contents of this most recent edition covers each area step by step in the following order:

• Pre-construction
• Site investigation
• Site works
• Soil improvement and excavation
• Materials
• Plant
• Foundations
• Basement construction
• Ground supported floors
• Suspended floors
• External walls
• Pitched roofs
• Flat roofs
• Steel framed buildings
• Concrete framed buildings
• Cladding of framed buildings
• Windows and doors
• Ceilings
• Drainage
• Building services
• Insulation and U-values
• Construction defects

Another key industry text from highly influential author Francis D.K. Ching, Architecture: Form, Space, and Order is now in its fourth edition.

This updated version from 2014 includes access to an online learning tool – the Interactive Resource Center – which offers tools such as interactive animations, flashcards and photos.

The book itself offers a lucid and accessible introduction to the terminology and concepts of the architecture and construction industry, and covers topics such as:

• Key construction elements
• The core principles of space design
• Specific design areas like light, view, enclosures and openings
• Ways to organise space and plan for circulation
• Working to scale and proportion

Hailed as an “industry standard guide”, this publication by Edward Allen and Patrick Rand – now in its third edition – provides a superbly illustrated insight into the finer points of architectural drawing and planning.

Concise, up to date information is expertly imparted throughout the 2016 book, and readers of all backgrounds can appreciate the skill of its representation of the marriage of art, science and functionality.

The book covers vital subject areas such as:

• Ways to integrate the most effective level of detail into every design
• Materials, construction approaches and methods of assembly – and how to illustrate them
• Sustainable design
• Working to current building regulations
• Aesthetics
• Performance standards
• Future proofing

The go-to reference book for architects, builders and property developments alike, this publication is vital when it comes to pricing and budgeting for any project.

On its 48th edition by 2023, this endlessly helpful book, compiled by AECOM, is an industry standard text that lays out – as accurately as possible – the current costs involved in developing and constructing almost any building.

Its exhaustive contents cover a wide range of fields, includingL

• An insight into the market as it stands, along with VAT and other taxation rates
• The current cost of labour and worker wages
• Detailed estimates for the prices of a range of equipment and materials
• Expenses associated with measured works
• The cost of various professional services
• Daywork allowances
• Access to resources providing further information

First published in 2009 by celebrated property development author Catherine Dawson, this book offers comprehensive guidance and advice that constitutes vital reading for anyone interested in turning a profit in the world of property.

Focusing in particular on property development approaches during times of economic volatility, the publication offers functional checklists and a wide range of resources to support small-scale developers of all backgrounds and experience levels.

Key learning outcomes include:

• Decision-making techniques
• Accessing finance
• Selecting your project
• Planning permission
• Building regulations
• Information on legislation and tax
• Ways to invest in buy-to-let 
• Regulations affecting landlords and tenants

Veteran developer and all-round property specialist John Howard shares his extensive knowledge with readers in this no-nonsense, highly practical book – published in 2019.

Known throughout the industry as a seasoned expert, Howard provides actionable guidance and invites new and existing developers to learn from his vast experience in this publication, which includes a wide range of learning outcomes, including:

• How to convert property step-by-step
• A straightforward guide to new builds
• Advice on how to handle listed buildings
• Methods for navigating planning permission
• Handy approaches to land promotion
• Tips on the most practical ways to convert commercial property to residential
• A study on formal and informal tenders
• Ways to trade property
• Most effective methods of growing and scaling a property business

This 2018 guide by experienced property developer and entrepreneur Mark Stokes presents industry professionals of all levels of experience with a step by step manual, brimming with practical guidance.

Following the author’s 12 tried and tested principles, the book introduces valuable case studies that come straight from the primary source – Stokes himself and his experiences – and covers a wealth of subject matter, including:

• Prioritising high-performance approaches and outcomes
• Mitigating risk
• Aiming for the best results every time
• Internalising key steps and systems
• Undertaking due diligence
• Security, safety and compliance
• Growing your confidence levels

This is a particularly useful guide for anyone with an interest in a particularly niche field of property development: conversion from industrial to residential.

This new edition, created in 2021 by Ian Child and Ritchie Clapson, co-founders of Property CEO and hosts of one of the most popular podcasts in the industry: the property CEO podcast, offers specialist insights and reveals handy industry secrets to aid any would-be developer.

Key learning takeaways include:

• Ways to recognise potentially lucrative projects that competitors may miss
• How to get started with little to no experience
• The most effective approaches to building an industry-leading team
• How to effectively fund each and every project
• Approaches to building credibility in the sector

This book provides a ready-made step by step process that allows any reader to source the right property, find the capital for their project, manage the development of commercial premises into residential properties and achieve the best possible returns on an ongoing basis.

Created by leading property developers and investors Mark Homer (also of the Mark My Words podcast) and Glenn Delve and published in 2020, this guide provides resources that allow readers to learn:

• How to turn significant profits from the repurposing and renovation of existing commercial property in just six steps
• The full process of development, with the potential for six-figure returns
• Ways to achieve passive income in both the long term and the immediate future
• How to start immediately

The seventh edition of an extremely popular publication that first came into being more than 40 years ago, the current (2021) iteration of Property Development by Richard Reed is fully up to date.

The publication renders this complex subject matter easily accessible for almost any reader, and is ideal for use by students and early or mid-career professionals alike.

The contents of the book take the reader through the process of development step by step, starting with a guide to land that may be developed, and going on to explore:

• Methods of evaluating and appraising potential projects
• Ways to finance a development
• An explanation of the different cycles in effect in the property world
• A guide to planning
• Approaches to construction
• Ways to undertake effective market research
• An insight into the world of PropTech
• How to get the most out of property marketing
• Off-market and private sales
• Ways to develop a property business sustainably
• Emerging markets and how to interact with them

A further book by highly experienced property academic Alan Millington, this publication makes a superb companion to his vital work: An Introduction to Property Valuation.

Ideal for students and those seeking a practical knowledge of property development without having to sift through technical jargon and theoretical discussion, the book, published in 2013, offers accessible information on:

• Property development techniques, approaches and considerations
• Financial aspects of development
• An oversight of the construction process
• The social impact of property development
• Planning
• Individual roles within the field of property development

Lloyd Girardi and Andi Cooke, both known property developers and investors with extensive experience, published this excellent book in 2022 to share their knowledge with other up and coming industry players.

It promises to share the “realities” of property development – busting its myths and breaking through its veneer of complexity to reveal that the field is truly accessible to anyone and everyone.

Subject matter explored in the publication includes:

• Case studies of real life property specialists
• Ways to get started in property development
• An exploration of the benefits and risks of the practice, and how best to utilise this knowledge

This is the second volume in a series designed to support first time property builders and renovators planning their own personal project.

While the first volume – also by Paul Netscher – covered the hiring and management of builders and contractors and handling the construction process from beginning to end, this second book explains:

• How to find the perfect property or land for your construction project
• The factors to take into consideration when renovating a property
• Various design concepts and considerations
• Ways to improve and upgrade property affordably
• How to manage a construction project

The 14th edition of this comprehensive and accessible guide to building regulations features contributions from experts M. J. Billington, S. P. Barnshaw, K. T. Bright and A. Crooks.

This updated version of a long-established publication, first brought to print in 1976, offers verified and authoritative information about all UK building regulations and legal construction requirements. Its contents include:

• An introduction to building control and The Building Act 1984
• Exemptions
• Technical and structural requirements
• Classification of dangerous structures
• Approved documents
• How the regulations should be practically applied
• Local authority powers
• Notice procedures
• Certifications
• Inspections
• Further legislation

Another publication from construction specialist Ray Tricker, again co-authored with built environment expert Samantha Alford, this 2022 book is the tenth edition of a condensed and accessible guide to English and Welsh Building Regulations, planning permission and Approved Documents.

It covers a range of vital details, including:

• Use classes
• Permitted developments
• Planning permission
• Application processes and costs
• A rundown of all building regulations

From the same Routledge series as the Construction Project Manager’s Pocket Book, included above in this same list, this handy 2022 guide – by Ray Tricker and Samantha Alford – offers an updated insight into all UK Building Regulations and Approved Documents.

Designed as a portable reference to all building regulations and requirements, for use on site or in the office, the book covers all vital areas of responsibility, and includes:

• An overview of the Building Act
• A guide to Planning Permission
• Details relating to Building Regs Approval
• An insight into Approved Documents
• A clear rundown of essential Building Regs requirements

This is the fifth edition of Alan Millington’s hugely successful beginner’s guide to the surveying and valuation of property. 

Published in 2013, this book provides a valuable and accessible overview of the basics of this discipline, and offers vital insights into the process for anyone interested in a future as a surveyor – as well as countless others keen to grow their knowledge of the field.

The first edition of this book dates back to 1975 – and this new version offers updated learning outcomes for the new generation of values, including information on:

• Land economics
• Quantity surveying
• Law
• Banking and finance
• Property – including investment and development

This seventh edition publication provides vital guidance for anyone planning to enter the fields of property valuation, surveying and development – and will prove particularly useful for those who need to demonstrate a valuation competence at levels 2 and 3, including RICS students.

Authored by industry authorities Andrew Baum, David Mackmin and Nick Nunnington, this book hit the shelves in 2017 and provides key insights into a range of subjects, bridging the gap between theory and practice.

Readers will learn:

• Approaches for the analysis of market rents, sale prices and market value
• The basics of the “investment method” and its practical applications
• The impact of legal matters on property value
• Most effective valuation methodologies according to today’s market
• The application of spreadsheets, charts and tables in valuation and surveying

This practical and functional guide to property valuation was first published by tutor, surveyor and valuation specialist Michael Blackledge in 2016, and is a detailed and accessible guidebook designed chiefly for students developing their knowledge of the practice.

A no-nonsense introduction to valuation and its related disciplines, this book is a must-read for any future professional planning to enter the world of property.

Key learning outcomes introduced in this publication include:

• The “five traditional methods” of valuation
• Vital guidance and requirements from the International Valuation Standards Council (IVSC) and the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS)
• An overview of matters related to cash flow
• Key calculations
• Illustrative case studies
• Extremely useful further reading suggestions

This is another very valuable Andrew Baum publication, co-authored with economic and business specialist David Hartzell.

Part of the Wiley Finance series, the second edition of this book was published in 2020, and is used extensively in leading colleges and places of further and higher education. 

The publication, along with its companion website, focuses on the wider world of property investment as well as the processes and practices employed by individuals and businesses and covers subject matter including:

• Valuation
• Leasing
• Mortgages
• Funding and underwriting
• Private and public equity
• Performance analysis
• Methods of portfolio building / sale strategies

This 2021 second edition presents a vital insight into property appraisal techniques and methods in the residential sector, focusing on valuation and the legal aspects of the practice.

Created by leading UK property specialists Chris Rispin, Fiona Haggett, Carrie de Silva, Phil Parnham and Larry Russen, this publication constitutes Volume 1 of a two-book series and offers comprehensive insights into:

• Skills required for property valuation
• Valuation for lending purposes
• Risks and risk mitigation
• Value drivers
• Legal considerations
• RICS regulations