How to Budget Developer Seed Capital for Land, Design, Marketing and Finance

Comprehensive checklist for managing the developer’s ‘seed money’ budget

Phase 1 - Site selection and seed money

1.1. Land acquisition

  • Estimate costs associated with acquiring the chosen site.
  • Include expenses such as purchase price, legal fees, and title searches.

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1.2. Project studies

  • Allocate funds for environmental studies, geotechnical assessments, and other required studies.
  • Budget for expert consultations to gather essential data for project planning.

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Phase 2 - Predevelopment seed money

  • Plan for expenses incurred during the pre development phase.

2.1. Design fees

  • Budget for architectural, engineering, and other design-related fees.
  • Ensure adequate funds for creating detailed design plans.

2.2. Marketing expenses

  • Allocate funds for promotional materials, website development, and advertising.
  • Include expenses related to branding, market research, and public relations.

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2.3. Financing expenses

  • Set aside seed money to cover costs associated with securing project financing.
  • Account for fees related to loan origination, legal consultations, and financial planning.

Phase 3 - Preconstruction or preclosing seed money

  • Prepare for expenses related to the preconstruction phase.

3.1. Construction expenses

  • Estimate costs for construction materials, labor, permits, and subcontractors.
  • Budget for unexpected costs that might arise during the construction phase.

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3.2. Design expenses

  • Allocate funds for design revisions and adjustments during the preconstruction phase.
  • Ensure the budget can accommodate design-related changes.

3.3. Marketing expenses

  • Continue funding marketing efforts to maintain awareness and generate interest.
  • Consider ongoing advertising and promotional activities.

3.4. Financing expenses

  • Account for any additional financing-related costs that arise during the preconstruction phase.
  • Ensure funds are available for any unexpected financial requirements.

Phase 4 - During construction seed money and equity advances

  • Manage ongoing expenses during the construction phase.

4.1. Predevelopment budget management

  • Monitor and manage the budget throughout construction to ensure financial discipline.
  • Identify and address budget overruns promptly.

4.2. Predevelopment work order system

  • Implement a system for tracking and managing work orders during construction.
  • Ensure that all work orders are authorized and aligned with the budget.

4.3. Work order system procedures

  • Define clear procedures for submitting, reviewing, and approving work orders.
  • Ensure proper documentation and communication throughout the process.