A Day In the Life of A Land Director

Jaspar Group of companies are a family run organisation with over 30 years of experience in the delivery of a wide range of developments. We concentrate on prestigious mixed-use developments, conversions, and restoration and conservation projects. We are passionate about buildings; with a respect for their history and the skill and workmanship employed in their original construction. We strive to ensure our developments provide high quality homes whilst also being sympathetic and sensitive to the original building.

Our growing portfolio comprises of a unique collection of projects that enhance areas and surrounding communities. As a small business, we are rapidly expanding with unique career development opportunities. If you are ready to take ownership of your job and happy to take on responsibility then this is the place for you. We offer attractive remuneration packages with an opportunity to progress quickly in the company.

Working at Jaspar will give you fantastic career progression with a prospect to excel in your personal development and training. Jaspar has a dynamic and challenging environment where we will inspire you to become the best.

Don’t just take our word for it, read on to hear what Lance Calder, our Land Director has to say:

Obviously securing deals can be the most exciting part of a role so talk us through the process you went through and the role you played to secure the Walton-on-Thames, High Street deal.

Firstly, I sourced the property through industry contacts and carried out the initial planning feasibility followed by looking at financial viability based on possible schemes highlighted in the planning feasibility.

Negotiating terms with the previous owners based on financial appraisals was an exciting but challenging step, but after that, I was able to review current tenancies and how they might impact value.

I then had to oversee conveyance and the solicitor to ensure that the property had a clean title and that there would be no impediments to our development objectives. I enjoyed managing multiple relationships throughout the purchase process, including the relationship with the previous owner, internal relationships, and legal and planning contacts etc.

Once we completed the deal, I was able to carry out more detailed planning feasibilities in order to develop the final scheme and commence negotiations on tenancies and other necessary contracts.

What was the most enjoyable part of the process for you?

Negotiating terms and initial feasibilities was a high pressure stage of the process and really tested my negotiating skills but it was very exciting and of course the moment of completion made it all worth while

What was your biggest challenge?

Managing the expectations of multiple stakeholder expectations with regards to timescales

Who else did you have to liaise/ work with throughout the process to ensure it was a success?

A number of consultants and other professionals, including: planning consultants, architects, commercial and residential agents and surveyors, lawyers, bankers and landlord and tenant experts

What are the most exciting/ challenging projects/ deals you have worked on in the past?

Certainly George Street, Richmond - it was ongoing prior to and after the EU referendum and just after a number of changes in property tax law. Market sentiment had been all over the place which has impacted on valuations

What do you think these deals like this have done for your career?

All the deals I have worked on so far have been significantly rewarding and given me valuable experience. Each project is an opportunity to acquire knowledge, improve my competency and gain confidence. Each success also leads to increased responsibility within the business.

 

 

Tell us a little about what your role entails day-to-day

My role is really varied which keeps it exciting and fresh. As we are a small team this also means you are given responsibility early on and have to use your initiative and best judgment to make key business decisions. A typical day for me however could include:

• Sourcing and appraising property investment and development opportunities
• Planning feasibility and developing strategies
• Input into design of various elements of construction
• Development appraisals and financial viability
• Advising on disposal strategy and valuations
• Market commentary and broad brush analysis
• Funding advice
• Asset management and developing strategies to add value to retained properties in the portfolio

What are the biggest challenges you face in your role?

Dealing with members of the public can be tough at times. It is important to keep up to date with legal issues such as compliance with planning and building regulations and health and safety.

What has been your career highlight in your current role?

The trade of George Street was definitely the most rewarding in my current role given the scepticism in the market at the time.

How have you got to where you are today?

Plenty of mistakes! Years of experience, and using every opportunity to learn and grow my knowledge and skillset.