By Ryan Malee – CEO Create Property Group

Introduction

The UK construction and property sector continues to operate in a changing economic landscape. With the Spring Statement 2026, the government has outlined its latest direction on growth, investment, and public spending, all of which directly impact builders, developers, and clients alike.

For homeowners and investors, the question is simple:
What does this mean for my project?

At Create, understanding these changes is essential, because informed decisions lead to stronger outcomes & we can pass this onto our clients

A Mixed Outlook for the Construction Industry

According to industry insights, including commentary from the Federation of Master Builders (FMB), the Spring Statement presents a balanced but cautious outlook.

Look. There are some positive signals, its not all doom and gloom:

Continued focus on infrastructure and housing delivery, this isn’t going away & let’s face it, we need it

Long-term investment ambitions, I hear this & it’s great, but I personally want to know more details from the Government on this & specifically, how it will affect the UK and selfishly, my investment areas.

Ongoing support for development and regeneration. This, I have yet to see personally within Create Property Group, but let’s remain positive here,

This is to mention a few but as we know, there are also ongoing pressures:

Material costs remain unpredictable & quite frankly, impossible to hold down fixed price works with fluctuating prices.

Labour shortages continue across skilled trades. I have heard conflicting information about this, however, I remain this is true, I speak heavily with DN College Group, who can also confirm the shortage of apprenticeships here in the UK. Just because we have great tradespeople on the ground today, it doesn’t mean we are set for the future. 

Financing conditions still require careful planning

For builders, this means one thing:
Precision and planning matter more than ever.

What This Means for Our Clients

Whether you’re planning a new build, extension, or development project, the wider economic environment directly affects:

-Build costs

-Project timelines

-Availability of skilled labour

-Overall project risk

The key takeaway is not to delay, but to plan properly.

Projects that succeed in this market are not the cheapest.
They are the most structured.

Why Preparation Is Now Critical

The biggest risk in construction today isn’t starting, it’s starting without clarity.

Successful projects in 2026 are built on:

-Detailed specifications

-Accurate cost forecasting

-Clear timelines and contingencies

-Strong project management frameworks

This aligns closely with what we see daily, clients who invest time in pre-construction planning achieve better results, fewer delays, and stronger cost control.

The Role of a Reliable Build Partner

In a stable market, many builders can deliver.

In a changing market, only structured and experienced teams consistently perform, especially with added uncertainty

At Create, our approach focuses on:

-Transparent pricing

-Clear communication

-Defined processes from pre-construction to completion

-Risk identification before work begins

This isn’t about overcomplicating projects, it’s about removing uncertainty & creating transparency as much as possible

Opportunity Still Exists

Despite challenges, the UK construction sector remains full of opportunity with big demand for:

-Quality housing

-Energy-efficient upgrades

-Property development continues to grow nut not like it used to, be very wary of these fake “Get Rick Quick” Schemes.

For those who plan effectively and partner with the right team, this market still offers strong long-term value.

The Bigger Picture

The Spring Statement doesn’t change everything overnight, but it reinforces an important shift.

The industry is moving towards:

-Greater accountability

-More structured delivery

-Higher expectations from clients

It doesn’t matter which way you look at it, this is a positive direction. It rewards professionalism, It rewards preparation and rewards those who do things properly. If you are one of these people, please follow me on my socials. I love to see good honest people giving it a go.

So, My Conclusion:

The message from the Spring Statement 2026 is clear:

The construction industry is evolving, and success will favour those who adapt.

For clients, that means working with builders who:

-Understand the wider market

-Plan thoroughly

-Communicate clearly

-Deliver consistently

At Create, that’s exactly what we aim to provide.

Are You Thinking About Your Next Project?

If you’re considering a build, development, or renovation in 2026, now is the time to approach it with clarity and structure.

Get in touch with Create, to discuss your project and explore how we can support you from concept to completion.

Ryan Malee
Create Property Group

Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today!e

We Showcased at Doncaster Business Showcase 2026

By Katie, Head of Marketing

What a day.

The Doncaster Business Showcase 2026 was packed with energy from the moment the doors opened. There was a real buzz in the room, steady footfall, positive conversations, and a strong sense of local businesses backing one another.

As Head of Marketing at Create Property Group, I’m incredibly proud of how our team showed up.

Create Property Group In Full Force

This wasn’t just one arm of the business attending.

We had the whole of Create Property Group represented:

• Create Properties – Our Build Team

• Create Living – Our lettings & estate agency team

• Create Property Group – All things property investing

It was fantastic to see our construction, investment, and estate agency services standing side by side, demonstrating how we support clients across the full property journey.

Seeing the team together, engaging confidently and professionally, was a proud moment.

I really enjoyed spending time with the girls at this great event, KUDOS again to Doncaster Council for putting on an incredible show, whilst their team always do a great job, a special mention to Heather Hamilton who is the organisor of the event.

The Buzz Around the Stand

From early on, there was a consistent flow of visitors. We spoke to homeowners, landlords, investors, fellow business owners and professionals across a range of sectors.

The conversations were genuinely positive.

People were curious about:

• Growing wealth through property

• Reliable construction partnerships

• Selling or letting homes in Doncaster

• Project management support

It was refreshing to see so many ambitious individuals looking to build, invest, and grow locally.

Higher & Lower – The M&S Hamper Challenge

We also brought a little bit of fun to the event.

Our Higher & Lower game gave visitors the chance to test their luck and win an M&S hamper. It created engagement, laughter, and some healthy competition throughout the day.

It wasn’t just about the prize, it was about interaction & FUN. We were definitely the loudest and most fun stand at the show

Exhibiting is about creating connections, not just collecting business cards.

And judging by the smiles and conversations around our stand, it worked.

The Power of Showing Up

Events like this remind you how important visibility & connecting with people really is. Its great to get away from the laptop & speak to people.

In business, especially in property, relationships matter. Being present in the room, shaking hands, listening to people’s ambitions, and sharing what we do, that’s what builds trust.

We were proud to represent Create Property Group and proud to stand alongside so many brilliant Doncaster businesses.

The energy in the room reflected something positive about our local economy, ambition, resilience, and collaboration.

What a Day

By the end of the showcase, we were tired, but in the best possible way.

Great conversations.
New connections.
Plenty of positivity.

And a reminder that the property sector in Doncaster is alive with opportunity.

Did you see us there?

If you stopped by to chat or took part in the Higher & Lower challenge, thank you. It was great to meet you.

And if you missed us, feel free to reach out; we’d love to continue the conversation.

Katie
Head of Marketing
Create Property Group

Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today!

By Katie Smith – Head of Marketing

Top 5 Digital Marketing Mistakes Tradespeople Make (And How to Fix Them)

If you’re a tradesperson in 2026 and you’re still saying:

“I don’t need social media.”
“My work speaks for itself.”
“Word of mouth is enough.”

Then I need to be honest with you.

You’re at risk.

I’ve worked with trades across construction, plumbing, electrical, joinery, roofing and more and the gap between those growing and those struggling isn’t skill.

It’s visibility.

Our CEO Ryan often tells us “I have a face for Radio not TV” but even Ryan understands the importance of having a personal brand.

Here are the Top 5 Digital Marketing Mistakes Tradespeople Make and how to fix them.

1. Hiding Behind the Work Instead of Showing the Work

You might be brilliant on the tools.

But if nobody sees it, nobody knows.

Too many trades:

• Post one photo every few months

• Never show their face

• Never explain what they’re doing

• Only post finished jobs

What clients actually want to see:

• Progress shots

• Problem solving

• Before & after

• You explaining what’s happening

• Your personality (This is my TOP TIP to you)

People buy from people.

The trades who used to say “I don’t want to go on camera” are now the ones winning the jobs, because clients trust who they can see.

Fix it:
Start filming 30–60 second clips on-site explaining what you’re doing. No polish needed. Just real.

2. Having No Clear Brand or Identity

A logo from 2008.
A random Facebook banner.
Different colours everywhere.
No consistent message.

That’s not a brand.

That’s noise.

Even small trade businesses need:

• A clear name

• Consistent colours

• A recognisable tone

• A simple message

If you want to charge premium rates, your brand needs to look premium.

Fix it:
Standardise your visuals and your message. You don’t need a £10k rebrand, just clarity and consistency.

3. No Google Presence (This Is Huge)

This is the biggest mistake I see.

Trades rely entirely on:

• Referrals

• Facebook groups

• Word of mouth

Meanwhile, your potential customer is typing:

“Builder in Doncaster”
“Electrician near me”
“Roofer South Yorkshire”

And you don’t appear.

If you don’t have:

• A Google Business Profile

• Reviews

• Updated photos

• A simple website

You’re invisible to high-intent buyers.

Fix it:
Optimise your Google Business Profile. Ask every happy client for a review. Upload weekly job photos.

It’s free. And it works.

4. Posting Content That Doesn’t Educate

Most trade content is:

• “Another job done.”

• “Happy customer.”

• “Before & after.”

That’s fine.

But the content that builds authority explains things.

Examples:

• “Why your extension quote varies so much.”

• “3 things to check before hiring a plumber.”

• “Why this roof failed.”

• “What this crack actually means.”

When you educate, you:

• Build trust

• Position yourself as expert

• Attract better clients

• Filter out time-wasters

Fix it:
Once a week, post one piece of content that teaches something.

Simple. Powerful.

5. Treating Marketing as Optional

This is the mindset shift.

Tradespeople invest in:

• Tools

• Vans

• Training

• Equipment

But see marketing as an expense.

It’s not.

Marketing is oxygen.

If you are not promoting your business in 2026, do not be surprised if your business struggles in 2027.

The market is changing.

Clients research first.
They compare.
They check reviews.
They look at Instagram.
They watch videos.

The best trades now:

• Film weekly

• Post consistently

• Collect testimonials

• Show personality

• Build a personal brand

And they are booked months in advance.

The Harsh Truth

You can be the best tradesperson in your area…

But if someone slightly less skilled is more visible, more trustworthy online, and easier to find…

They’ll win the job.

That’s reality.

Final Thought

Digital marketing isn’t about becoming an influencer.

It’s about becoming visible.

If you’re a tradesperson reading this, ask yourself:

• When did I last post something useful?

• Do I appear on Google?

• Would I hire me based on my online presence?

If the answer makes you uncomfortable, good.

That’s where growth starts
katie Smith – Head of Marketing
Create Property Group

Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today!

By Ryan Malee – CEO Create Property Group

Here’s the Real Story from Inside the Construction Industry

Are Builders Misled by Keir Starmer’s AI Planning Claims?

I’ve been in the construction and property sector for nearly 2 decades, and I’ve never seen industry frustration this high not because we don’t want to build, but because what’s being promised in political messaging hasn’t matched what we see on the ground.

Recently, I spoke on the Property Developer Podcast about the excitement I’ve had, not just on stage but in boardrooms and sites, hearing Government targets, plans for AI to revolutionise planning, and huge ambitions to get Britain building. But after speaking with planning officers and professionals working inside local authorities, it became clear something important was lost in translation.

Yes, the Government has publicly committed to using artificial intelligence (AI) to “transform the planning system” and accelerate decision-making as part of its housing agenda. In June 2025, the UK Government launched an AI planning tool called Extract, saying it would help speed up planning permissions and support housebuilding targets.

But here’s the nuance most national headlines missed…

AI in Planning, Not What It Sounds Like

When the Government and Prime Minister highlighted AI for planning, many in the construction world understood it as “AI will shorten planning times and decision lead times across the board.”

What planners explained to me, and what experience on live projects confirms, is different.

The AI being introduced today is primarily focused on digitising old, paper-based planning data:
turning historical maps, handwritten documents and legacy records into digital data that councils can process more quickly. That’s a valuable upgrade, but it’s not the same as AI automatically approving planning applications, removing red tape, or fundamentally ripping out delays from the system. (THE REAL ISSUE)

In short, the AI currently being touted isn’t actively speeding up every planning decision, it’s freeing up officer time by converting old files so they can be worked with using modern systems. That often still leaves councils with the same resource constraints when it comes to making decisions.

Some headlines made it sound like councils would suddenly go from waiting 10–20 weeks for a decision, to weeks or days. That simply hasn’t materialised in practice yet.

This is where many of us in construction feel that builders were misled by Keir Starmer’s AI planning narrative not out of malice, but because the nuance wasn’t fully communicated.

The Difference Between Optimism and Delivery

Political announcements are powerful; they shape market confidence and expectations. When the promise of AI in planning is interpreted as “speed up everything,” investors, developers and builders genuinely believe that:

• planning applications will be processed faster

• lead times will shorten

• costs will stabilise

• project risk will reduce

But when you talk to planning officers or study what the technology actually does, the reality becomes clearer:

• AI helps digitise historical data

• Councils can read files faster

• Long-term tech integration is a priority

• But decisions still require resource, scrutiny and compliance

So while AI tools like Extract are an important step for modernisation, they are a piece of infrastructure, not an instant fix to a deeply complex regulatory process.

What I Heard From Planners Themselves

After the podcast aired, I spoke directly with planning teams in multiple authorities. Their consistent feedback was:

• “The tools help, but they don’t remove workload.”

• “We still need people to interpret, consult, validate and enforce.”

• “AI gives us time back, but doesn’t replace resource shortages.”

• “Decision bottlenecks are about staffing more than digitising old files.”

This feedback illustrates a reality the industry needs to acknowledge:

AI in planning is a tool, not a miracle.

And when political communication overstates the impact of that tool, it creates expectations that can’t be met in the real world.

That’s why the sentiment that builders feel misled by Keir Starmer’s AI planning messaging exists, because words in headlines weren’t clearly matched with the operational reality inside planning departments.

How Construction Can Still Move Forward

Misleading narratives aren’t helpful, but neither are resignation or frustration.

Instead, here’s what builders, investors and developers need to focus on:

1. Understand Planning Tech for What It Is

AI will modernise data and improve workflows over time, but don’t count on it to instantly fix decision delays.

2. Invest in Relationships with Councils

Personal engagement with planning teams gives you insight no press release ever can.

3. Factor Real Lead Times Into Your Cashflow

Expect planning delay risk until resource constraints are resolved, because tech alone won’t remove that.

4. Advocate for Workforce Investment

More planners and support staff = faster decisions. That’s the real bottleneck.

5. Hold Messaging to Delivery Outcomes

As an industry, we should welcome progress narratives, but also demand clarity on what the tech actually delivers.

Watch the Real Conversation

I talk through this live in my clip from the podcast, watch it here:

https://vm.tiktok.com/ZNR5fqvYR/

Because this isn’t just industry chatter, this is about confidence in the system, delivery of homes, and future investment decisions.

Final Thought: Confidence Comes From Clarity

Builders, developers and investors want one thing: certainty.

We want a planning system that respects resources, embraces useful tools, and delivers outcomes.

We do not want headlines that sound better than the reality.

If AI planning tools eventually speed up decisions, integrate seamlessly with council software, and genuinely cut lead times, that will be an enormous win for the sector. Today, those tools are a foundation, not the finished structure.

And until policy storytelling aligns with operational reality, the industry will rightly ask tough questions, including whether builders were misled by Keir Starmer’s AI planning narrative.

Ryan Malee
Create Property Group

Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today!

By Caitlin Gray – Content Creator at Create Group

Hey! I’m Caitlin, the person behind the camera and behind the scenes, creating everything you see across Create Group. That includes The Builders, Create Living, and Create Investment Properties.

With the launch of our brand-new Builders & Construction Company website, I thought it was time to introduce myself properly, share what I do, and give you a glimpse of what’s coming up across our content platforms with the occasional selfie

My Role at Create Group

At Create, I’m not laying bricks or managing contracts, I’m on-site, in meetings, and embedded in the action, capturing the full story of every build, deal, and transformation.

From stripped-back-to-brick renovations and new build walkthroughs to letting highlights, behind-the-scenes business wins, and investor interviews, I film, edit, and share it all, the good, the bad and the ugly.

You’ll usually find me:

• On construction sites capturing daily progress and transformations

• Interviewing the team and tradespeople to share the real personalities behind the projects

• Creating content for aspiring developers, clients, investors, and partners

• Editing everything from long-form walkthroughs to short-form TikToks

• Publishing real, unfiltered footage — no fluff, no filters

Whether it’s a gritty renovation, a polished new build, or a milestone for the group, I’m there with the camera rolling.

Why I Love This Job

Every project we take on has a story, and I get to tell it.

It’s not just about the bricks and budget, It’s about the vision, the setbacks, the triumphs, and the transformation.
My goal is to share that with you in the most real, engaging, and inspiring way possible.

We don’t stage perfect photos.
We don’t wait until the dust settles.
We show what’s really happening because that’s what you, the people, connect with.

Follow the Journey (Across the Whole Create Group)

If you want to see the full picture from on-site action to lettings walkthroughs, investment education, and team culture, here’s where you can follow along:

• YouTube: Create Properties Group

• Create Group Instagram: @create_property_group

• Builders Instagram: @create_builders

• Lettings Instagram: @create_living

• Create Property Group Facebook: @Createpropertygroup

• Builders Facebook: Create Properties Ltd

• Lettings Facebook: Create Properties Ltd

• Create Group LinkedIn: Create Properties Group

• Builders LinkedIn: Create Properties Ltd

• Create TikTok: @createpropertygroup

You’ll get weekly updates from all parts of the Create Group, not just the builds.

What’s Coming Soon?

Over the next few months, I’ll be rolling out some exciting new content, including:

Full video series from our latest renovation and development projects
Weekly vlogs and site walkaround on YouTube
Tips and breakdowns for property developers and investors
Behind-the-scenes footage from Create Living and our Sales & lettings team
Candid interviews with Ryan and the Create team (if I can get them on camera)

Come Along for the Ride

Whether you’re a client, an aspiring investor, someone building your own property brand, or just love watching houses come to life, there’s something here for you.

We’re building more than houses.
We’re building content that shows what it really takes to do what we do.

Thanks for stopping by and welcome to the Create community.
I’ll see you on-site (or online)!

Caitlin Gray
Content Creator | Create Group

Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today!

We’re Now on YouTube, Come Behind the Scenes with Create

Real Builds. Real People. Real Results.

I am excited to officially announce that Create is now on YouTube!

For years, the Create team have been delivering high-quality construction projects across South Yorkshire, from new build homes to complex commercial-to-residential conversions. Now, we’re pulling back the curtain and bringing you behind the scenes with weekly video content that shows what really goes into a successful build, the good the bad and the ugly.

Whether you’re a homeowner planning your first extension, an investor managing your next development, or someone just fascinated by construction, this channel is for you. Create is not just your average builders in Doncaster, this team packs the full kit & has a vast amount of knowledge in this industry. 

What You Can Expect on Our Channel

Behind-the-Scenes Site Walkthroughs
We take you on-site to show you what’s happening, from groundwork to handover, steel installations to roof finishes, and everything in between.

Build Process Explained
Understand each phase of a project with easy-to-follow breakdowns:

• How to read a site programme

• What “first fix” really means

• Why delays happen and how to avoid them

• Even cashflow forecasting, as Ryan will say, “Sh*t happens, it’s how you deal with it that counts”

Cost & Strategy Insights
We’ll share transparent insights on pricing, budgeting, and how to get value from your builder — no fluff, just facts.

Client Projects & Case Studies
See how we delivered standout projects like The Woodlands, our £1m+ new build, and various HMO and renovation conversions.

Expert Tips from Our Team
Hear directly from our directors, site managers, and team leaders about what’s working, what’s challenging, and what they’d do differently.

Why We’re Doing This

Create have always believed in educating, inspiring, and being honest. That’s why we share so much during our client onboarding process and now we’re extending that to a wider audience & if you know Ryan, he LOVES to tell you all about it haha

YouTube gives us the chance to:

• Show the details behind every stage of a build

• Offer guidance for clients and self-builders

• Help investors and developers understand real-world delivery

At Create, we don’t just talk about our work, we show it.

Subscribe Now and See the Difference

Visit Our Channel Here
(Or search Create Property Group on YouTube)

We release new videos every week, covering live builds, expert advice, and our latest projects.

If you’re serious about property, planning a build, or just want to learn more, subscribe, like, and follow our journey.

Katie Smith
Head of Marketing

Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today!

Cashflow: The Lifeline of Any Successful Build

When it comes to construction, people often focus on the big-ticket items: the drawings, the schedule, the quote. But behind every successful project, there’s one critical element that keeps everything moving cashflow.

Cashflow is the lifeblood of a construction site. Without it, even the best-planned projects can grind to a halt. In this blog, we’ll explain why cashflow management is vital, what can happen if the money stops, and how to safeguard your project from cash-related risks.

I speak with experience here, my job is to manage finances on all our construction projects and I can tell you, even the best clients can get it wrong from time to time. Mistakes happen, what I have learned is, its not about the mistake, its how the mistake is handled that counts the most. Lets get into it

Why Cashflow Matters So Much in Construction

Construction is a pay-as-you-go industry. Materials, labour, equipment hire, scaffolding, insurances, site welfare — they all have to be paid for before the final building is completed and handed over.

Good cashflow ensures:
✔ Materials arrive on time
✔ Tradespeople are paid on schedule
✔ Site setup and running costs are covered
✔ Unexpected variations and issues can be absorbed without delay
✔ Confidence remains high between all parties (builders, suppliers, clients)

Without steady cashflow, even a small project can stall, costing everyone more time and money.

The Common Cashflow Challenges in Construction

Here are the most common reasons cashflow becomes a problem:

• Delayed client payments (common on self-managed builds or poorly structured contracts)

• Underpricing the job at tender stage

• Unexpected variations not properly accounted for

• Retention payments held too long (particularly on larger developments)

• Slow supply chain payments meaning contractors struggle to buy materials or pay wages

In construction, most contractors finance the build as it progresses. If the incoming cash dries up, they can’t finance the next stage and everything stops.

What Happens When Cashflow Stops Mid-Project?

The consequences of cashflow problems are serious and can escalate quickly:

1. Immediate Site Slowdown or Shutdown

If suppliers aren’t paid, materials won’t arrive. If trades aren’t paid, they’ll leave the site. Work slows, deadlines slip, and costs rise.

2. Supply Chain Fallout

Reputation spreads fast. If a builder or developer can’t pay suppliers, word gets out and it becomes harder to get credit terms or trades on-site.

3. Legal Action and Contract Disputes

If contractors aren’t paid, they may lodge claims, seek adjudication, or even place liens on the property. A stalled site can become legally tangled very quickly. This may be passed on depending on the T&C

4. Rising Costs and Damage to Profitability

Every day a project runs late costs money: additional prelims (site toilets, fencing, scaffolding hire), interest on loans, liquidated damages clauses, and loss of future income.

5. Loss of Investor and Lender Confidence

If you’re borrowing money or working with investors, a stalled project damages credibility. It becomes much harder to raise funds for future phases or developments.

How to Protect Cashflow During a Project

At Create, we have strict processes to ensure cashflow remains healthy for everyone involved. Here’s how you can safeguard yours too:

1. Clear Payment Schedules Linked to Milestones

Payments should be based on work completed, not on fixed dates. This keeps everything fair and ensures the builder has funds to keep progressing.

2. Proper Project Cost Planning

Budget realistically from the start. Allow contingency for:

• Variations

• Lead time issues

• Unexpected site problems e.g., ground conditions or weather, this can be huge if you are on sub-structure such as footings / groundworks etc

3. Open Communication

Clients, builders, and trades must all understand the payment plan and cash requirements before breaking ground. Transparency prevents disputes later.

4. Monitor and Forecast Regularly

Cashflow should be reviewed weekly during a live build, not just at month-end. Spotting shortfalls early means corrective action can be taken.

5. Manage Variations Promptly

If the scope changes (which it often does), agree variation costs quickly and update the payment structure not months later.

Why We Focus on Cashflow at Create Builders

At Create, we know that predictable cashflow = predictable projects. We:

• Set clear milestones

• Provide detailed payment structures

• Communicate early and often

• Never let small issues become big problems

We believe in partnering with our clients, not hiding behind small print. When cashflow is healthy, everyone wins: faster builds, better workmanship, and stronger relationships.

Final Thoughts: Cashflow is King in Construction

If you’re planning a project, remember this: a great design and a great builder mean nothing if the money doesn’t flow properly.

Take the time to plan your cashflow, structure your payments carefully, and work with a builder who treats your budget with respect. Your project — and your future profits — depend on it.

If you want a builder who values transparency, communication, and financial control, get in touch with us today & Ask how we control each projects finances

See our services here

Josh Clover
Finance Assistant

Ready to Build Smarter? Contact Us Today!