Accountants for Property Developers
Specialist accounting and tax services for UK property developers and investors
Expert Financial Partners for Property Developers
Property development requires specialist financial expertise. From navigating complex tax regulations to managing project cash flows, you need accountants who understand the unique challenges of the property sector. IAK Accountants provides comprehensive accounting services specifically tailored for property developers and investors across the UK.
Our experienced team helps property professionals maximise returns while ensuring full compliance with HMRC requirements. Whether you're developing residential schemes, commercial properties, or mixed-use developments, we provide the financial insights and tax planning strategies essential for success in today's competitive market.
Property Sector Expertise
- ✓Residential developments and conversions
- ✓Buy-to-let portfolio management
- ✓Commercial property investments
- ✓HMO and student accommodation
- ✓Land acquisition and planning gain
Why Developers Choose IAK
- ✓Deep understanding of property taxation
- ✓Project-specific profit reporting
- ✓Relationships with property lenders
- ✓RICS-compliant valuations support
- ✓Exit strategy and succession planning
Critical Tax Considerations for Property Developers
Capital Gains vs Income Tax
Strategic planning to ensure developments qualify for appropriate tax treatment and reliefs.
SDLT Mitigation
Legitimate strategies to reduce stamp duty including MDR, mixed-use relief, and corporate structures.
VAT Recovery
Maximise VAT recovery on development costs while managing partial exemption restrictions.
Corporation Tax Planning
Optimise group structures, loss relief, and capital allowances across your portfolio.
Comprehensive Services for Property Developers
Project Accounting
Detailed financial tracking for each development project, including cost analysis, profitability reports, and cash flow management.
Stamp Duty Planning
Strategic SDLT planning and mitigation, including multiple dwellings relief and commercial property expertise.
VAT Optimisation
Navigate complex VAT rules for property transactions, including option to tax, partial exemption, and reverse charge.
Tax Efficient Structures
Advice on optimal business structures, SPVs, and joint ventures to minimise tax and protect assets.
Development Finance Support
Financial reporting and projections for lenders, investors, and joint venture partners.
CIS Compliance
Complete Construction Industry Scheme management including registration, verification, and monthly returns.
Development Finance & Reporting
Financial Reporting for Lenders
We understand what development finance lenders need. Our reporting packages include:
- •Monthly management accounts
- •Cost to complete analysis
- •Cash flow forecasts
- •Development appraisals
- •Drawdown schedules
- •QS cost reconciliations
Joint Venture Structuring
Expert advice on structuring property joint ventures including:
Legal Structures
- • LLPs vs Limited Companies
- • SPV considerations
- • Profit sharing agreements
Tax Efficiency
- • Profit extraction strategies
- • Capital vs income allocation
- • Exit planning
Case Study: Maximising Developer Returns
The Challenge
A North London property developer was planning a 20-unit residential scheme with a projected GDV of £8.5m. They needed strategic tax planning and financial structuring to maximise returns while managing development finance requirements.
Our Solution
- ✓Structured the development through an SPV to protect other assets
- ✓Implemented VAT planning saving £125,000 on construction costs
- ✓Negotiated SDLT relief on site acquisition saving £45,000
- ✓Provided monthly reporting enabling smooth drawdowns from lender
The Result
Total tax savings of £170,000 and improved net profit margin from 18% to 22%, delivering an additional £340,000 to the bottom line.
Ready to Maximise Your Development Returns?
Join successful property developers across London who trust IAK Accountants to optimise their financial performance and tax position.
Property Developer FAQs
Should I develop through a limited company or personally?
This depends on several factors including your tax position, financing requirements, and exit strategy. Limited companies offer asset protection and potentially lower tax rates, but personal ownership may provide capital gains tax advantages. We'll analyse your specific circumstances to recommend the optimal structure.
How can I reduce stamp duty on property purchases?
Several reliefs may apply including Multiple Dwellings Relief, mixed-use relief, and corporate acquisition strategies. Timing and structuring are crucial. Our team stays current with SDLT legislation and can identify legitimate planning opportunities for your acquisitions.
What are the VAT implications for property development?
VAT treatment varies significantly between residential and commercial developments. New residential builds are zero-rated, while conversions may qualify for reduced rates. Commercial properties involve standard-rated supplies with potential option to tax considerations. We ensure you recover maximum input VAT while remaining compliant.
Do you work with development finance brokers and lenders?
Yes, we have established relationships with major development finance providers and brokers. We understand their reporting requirements and can provide the financial information needed to secure and maintain funding throughout your project.
How do you charge for property developer accounting services?
We offer flexible fee structures including fixed monthly retainers, project-based pricing, and success-based arrangements for tax planning. Typical monthly fees range from £500-£2,000 depending on portfolio size and service requirements. All fees are agreed upfront with no hidden charges.