September 2019

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September 2019

In this issue

Brexit debacle threatens industry stability

Housebuilder’s annual SWOT analysis asks the views of an expert panel on the Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities and Threats currently facing the industry. Ben Roskrow finds fear of recession looming large.

The Interview -Tim Banks, Octagon Developments

Tim Banks is ceo of Octagon Developments, a luxury housebuilder that is now planning more mid-priced schemes. He talks to Suzie Mayes

An emotional response

Research shows psychology and emotion play a significant role in the home buying process, says Rachel Asquith, business director at Aylesworth Fleming

Sea views

Giles Wilson, NHBC’s standards manager, explores how to treat costal homes

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Policy Conference captures hurdles to homes target

The HBF Policy Conference saw the housing secretary send a “call to arms” to industry to get building while other speakers detailed the numerous obstacles to this. Suzie Mayes reports

The Interview – Dave Smith & Matt Vincent, Spitfire Homes

Dave Smith became managing director of Spitfire Homes in 2025, with Matt Vincent operations director since 2024. They talk to Suzie Mayes about offering high quality homes in different markets, changes to the company and moving from being an SME to a more regionalised business

Celebrating social value

Julie Baker, Keepmoat North West’s social value manager, was crowned 2025’s Housebuilder Star for her commitment to helping young people. Suzie Mayes discovers why Baker’s background motivated her and takes a look at how other housebuilders approach social value

Crafting a career in construction

NHBC explores the various routes into housebuilding and the training it delivers to help resolve the skills shortage and retain talent