The Book
A real-world look at property development, built on more than 30 years of experience, lessons learned and the stories behind real projects.
“I’ve read countless business books over the years. Many have been useful, but most have felt quite generic. A few have been genuinely inspirational.”
A few years ago, I took some time to reflect on the previous decade and the property development projects I’d delivered. Like many business owners, I’d completed one project and moved straight on to the next without really stopping to appreciate what had been achieved. It wasn’t complacency; it was simply the reality of running a business that was growing at pace.
Looking back made me realise just how much the journey had shaped me. There had been highs and lows, difficult decisions, setbacks, successes and lessons that no textbook could ever teach. I had grown alongside the business.
As I reflected on the challenges I’d faced, both personally and professionally, I realised how important resilience, determination and the right mindset had been. That’s when I decided to write this book—to share the lessons I’d learned and provide practical guidance for others who are beginning, or continuing, their own property development journey.
“I haven’t written this book for profit, that’s why it’s not for general sale. I’ll make sure you get a signed copy when you’ve completed the course as a thank you.”
How to deal with success, failures and situations both within and out of your control.
Learn what makes people tick, their behaviours and drivers.
How to negotiate and close the right deals.
Lessons from real development projects.
Lessons from real development projects
Connect with developers and industry professionals
Guidance from experienced property developers
Resources and knowledge to help developers grow
Welcome to The Real Deal — the UK property podcast that keeps it informative, honest, and just the right side of fun.
Hosted by people who live and breathe property, this isn’t another “get rich quick” show. It’s real conversations with real people who’ve built serious careers in property — sometimes from completely unexpected starting points.
From seasoned developers and landlords to entrepreneurs and sports personalities who’ve turned competitive drive into successful property portfolios, we explore how they did it, what they learned, and what they’d do differently.
See what goes on inside a real property development company and experience our growing networking community.
Highfield Property Network is designed for anyone who wants to build a career in property development, whether you’re completely new to the industry or already have experience. Our members include builders, tradespeople, professionals, business owners and aspiring developers looking to complete profitable property development projects.
No. Our training is designed for beginners as well as experienced property developers. We’ll give you the education, mentoring and community support to help you progress with confidence. We’re with you 100% of the way.
We focus exclusively on property development. That includes finding sites, assessing opportunities, planning, finance, managing construction, risk management and delivering successful developments. We don’t cover buy-to-let investing, HMOs or becoming a landlord because our focus is helping members become successful property developers.
No. One of the biggest misconceptions about property development is that you need large amounts of your own money. In reality, learning how to find the right opportunities, structure deals and work with investors is often far more important than starting with significant capital.
No qualifications are required. Whether you left school at sixteen or already have professional qualifications, what matters most is your willingness to learn, take action and accept the support that’s offered.
Unlike many property courses, Highfield Property Network isn’t built around selling information. Membership combines structured education, monthly mentoring, immersive site visits, networking with active developers and ongoing support while you complete real projects. The aim isn’t simply to teach theory—it’s to help members complete successful property developments.
Every project is different. Some developments can progress quickly, while others take two years or more from purchase to completion. That’s why we encourage members to think long term and recommend allowing around two years to gain the maximum benefit from the education, mentoring and support available.
Members can access all training through the Highfield Property Network online learning portal or via the HPN mobile app, allowing you to learn wherever and whenever suits you.
No. Paul began in the building industry with no significant financial backing. He built his knowledge through practical experience, completed his first development at nineteen and has spent more than 35 years developing projects through multiple property cycles. Today he has completed over £125 million of developments and has an active pipeline exceeding £200 million.
Paul has completed more than £125 million of property developments during a career spanning over 35 years. He is still an active developer with a current development pipeline exceeding £200 million. Many of these projects can be viewed throughout this website and through his development company, Rockwell Homes.
Yes. Your education doesn’t end when you finish the training modules. Members continue to receive monthly mentoring, immersive learning days, networking events and ongoing support for as long as they remain members. Our aim is to support you throughout your property development journey, not just the learning phase.
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. Some members spend just a few hours each week working through the training and attending live sessions, while others immerse themselves as they actively progress their projects. The membership is designed to fit around your existing commitments, allowing you to learn at your own pace while applying what you learn when the time is right.
Absolutely. We understand that joining a property development community is an important decision. If you’d like to discuss your goals, ask questions or find out whether Highfield Property Network is right for you, simply get in touch and we’d be happy to arrange a conversation.
