Gross development value
The Gross Development Value (GDV) of a development project is an estimate of the open market capital value or rental value the development is likely to have once it is complete. It may be calculated as part of an initial development appraisal and may then be continually assessed to help determine whether the project is likely to be, or has been profitable.
It is calculated based on the market conditions prevailing at the date of the valuation, and may be based on an analysis of recent property transactions for similar properties in the area of the development. This can include asking prices, sale prices, information provided by letting agents or estate agents, or assessments provided by development surveyors.
Gross Development Value may be used as part of a residual valuation, that is, the process of valuing land with development potential. The sum of money available for the purchase of land can be calculated from the value of the completed development (GDV) minus the costs of the development process (including profit). The complexity in such assessments lies in the calculation of inflation, finance terms, interest and cash flow against a programme timeframe.
For more information see: Residual valuation of land
Assessment of Gross Development Value can have a significant impact on the profitability, form, rate of completion, and even the viability of a development project. For example, if a high Gross Development Value is needed to generate sufficient profit for the development to be worth pursuing, it may be necessary to design a high density use for the proposed site.
Accurate assessment of Gross Development Value can be particularly difficult on large, complex projects that may take a considerable time to complete.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
- Base year.
- Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR).
- Contingency.
- Development appraisal.
- Discounted cash flow.
- Funding options.
- Funding prospectus.
- Investment.
- Property valuation.
- Residual value insurance.
- Site selection and acquisition.
- Site appraisal.
- Surveyor.
- Technical due diligence.
- Yield.
[edit] External references
Featured articles and news
The benefits of engaging with insulation manufacturers
When considering ground floor constructions.
Lighting Industry endorses Blueprint for Electrification
The Lighting Industry Association fully supports the ECA Blueprint as a timely, urgent call to action.
BSRIA Sentinel Clerk of Works Training Case Study
Strengthening expertise to enhance service delivery with integrated cutting-edge industry knowledge.
Impact report from the Supply Chain Sustainability School
Free sustainability skills, training and support delivered to thousands of UK companies to help cut carbon.
The Building Safety Forum at the Installershow 2025
With speakers confirmed for 24 June as part of Building Safety Week.
The UK’s largest air pollution campaign.
Future Homes Standard, now includes solar, but what else?
Will the new standard, due to in the Autumn, go far enough in terms of performance ?
BSRIA Briefing: Cleaner Air, Better tomorrow
A look back at issues relating to inside and outside air quality, discussed during the BSRIA briefing in 2023.
Restoring Abbotsford's hothouse
Bringing the writer Walter Scott's garden to life.
Reflections on the spending review with CIAT.
Retired firefighter cycles world to raise Grenfell funds
Leaving on 14 June 2025 Stephen will raise money for youth and schools through the Grenfell Foundation.
Key points for construction at a glance with industry reactions.
Functionality, visibility and sustainability
The simpler approach to specification.
Architects, architecture, buildings, and inspiration in film
The close ties between makers and the movies, with our long list of suggested viewing.
SELECT three-point plan for action issued to MSPs
Call for Scottish regulation, green skills and recognition of electrotechnical industry as part of a manifesto for Scottish Parliamentary elections.
UCEM becomes the University of the Built Environment
Major milestone in its 106-year history, follows recent merger with London School of Architecture (LSE).
Professional practical experience for Architects in training
The long process to transform the nature of education and professional practical experience in the Architecture profession following recent reports.