Property due diligence · Updated 2026-09-26
What to check before entering a land development partnership
A practical starting point for landowners and developers reviewing title, ownership, permissions and responsibilities before a development partnership.
Start with the ownership position
Before discussing a development plan, identify who can legally deal with the property. Review the title chain, succession position, existing claims, powers of attorney and whether every necessary owner is available to participate.
A commercial opportunity can be delayed when the people discussing the transaction are not the people who can sign or transfer the relevant rights.
Review documents and restrictions
The legal professionals should review the available title documents, encumbrances, land use, access, survey details and relevant approvals. The exact checks depend on the property and proposed use.
Do not treat a brochure, revenue record or verbal assurance as a substitute for a proper legal review.
Put roles and contributions in writing
A development partnership should explain who contributes the land, capital, approvals, construction, marketing and sales work. It should also explain decision-making, costs, timelines, default situations and how proceeds are handled.
The structure should be understood by the landowner and developer before work begins, with advice from the engaged legal professionals.
How DBC can help
DealBridge Capital coordinates the commercial discussion and brings together landowners, developers, capital and its panel of legal experts where the proposed engagement requires it. The engaged legal professionals provide legal advice and representation.
An initial callback is not a legal opinion or a promise that a partnership will be suitable. It is a way to understand the property and agree the next step.