Why do I need a Development Feasibility Report?
Why You Need a Pre-Development Feasibility Report Before You Start Your Project
One of the biggest mistakes property developers make is rushing into a project without fully understanding its feasibility. Whether you’re subdividing a residential lot, developing a multi-unit site, or undertaking a commercial project, a pre-development feasibility report is your roadmap to success.
At I Am Developer, we help developers, investors, and homeowners make informed decisions before committing to a project. Here’s why investing in a pre-development feasibility report is one of the smartest moves you can make
1. Avoid Costly Mistakes
Property development is full of hidden risks—unexpected costs, zoning restrictions, infrastructure limitations, and market fluctuations can all derail a project. A feasibility report identifies these risks upfront, saving you from making expensive mistakes down the road.
For example, you might purchase a site thinking you can build six townhouses, only to later discover that council restrictions limit you to four. A feasibility report would have flagged this before you made an offer.
2. Understand Your Development Potential
Every site has unique opportunities and constraints. Our feasibility reports assess your site’s zoning, planning regulations, and buildability, giving you a clear picture of what’s possible before you commit to development.
What we cover:
• Zoning rules and overlays
• Height restrictions and setbacks
• Minimum lot sizes for subdivisions and multi-unit projects
• Infrastructure and services availability
3. Get Accurate Financial Projections
Will your project be profitable? Many developers underestimate costs or overestimate their potential returns. Our feasibility reports include detailed financial assessments, helping you understand:
• Total project costs, including land, construction, council fees, and contingencies
• Projected resale or rental values based on market trends
• Expected return on investment (ROI) to determine whether the numbers stack up
4. Secure Finance with Confidence
Lenders and investors want to see solid numbers before backing your project. A well-prepared feasibility report strengthens your loan application, demonstrating that your project is financially viable and well-researched. Don’t be that guy who turns up with numbers on the back of a paper napkin.
Some lenders even require feasibility reports before approving development loans. Having one ready puts you ahead of the game.
5. Streamline the Resource Consent Process
New Zealand’s Resource Management Act (RMA) and council planning rules can be complex. Submitting a project without understanding compliance requirements can lead to costly delays and rejections.
A feasibility report helps you identify what consents you need, what challenges you might face, and how to navigate the process efficiently.
For example, a developer planned a multi-unit project but didn’t realise the site had heritage protections. A feasibility report identified this early, allowing them to adjust their design before submitting their resource consent application, thus ensuring their consent will get approved the first time, without needing to go back for an amendment.
6. Reduce Stress and Increase Confidence
Without a feasibility report, property development can feel like a guessing game. Will the project be profitable? Can I get consent? What if unexpected costs arise?
A clear feasibility study removes uncertainty, giving you confidence that your project is viable before you commit significant time and money.
Get Your Feasibility Report from I Am Developer
At I Am Developer, we specialise in practical, easy-to-understand feasibility reports tailored to your project. Whether you’re an experienced developer or just getting started, we provide the insights you need to develop with confidence.
Book your feasibility report today and make smarter, more profitable property development decisions.
