Choosing the right consultants can make or break a development project, especially when you’re new to the game. From costly design revisions to delayed approvals, the impact of picking the wrong partner shows up fast.
So what do the most successful developers do differently? Here’s what we’ve learned from industry research and real-world examples.
1. They start with clarity, not assumptions
Before they even look at a consultant’s profile, smart developers ask themselves: What exactly do I need help with? What are the biggest risks or unknowns in this project?
It sounds simple, but skipping this step often leads to vague briefs, misaligned expectations, and expensive surprises. Clear goals make it easier to spot the right partner and avoid paying for things you don’t need.
2. They don’t just look for experience, they look for relevant experience
It’s tempting to go with someone who’s worked on impressive high-rise builds or large subdivisions or the ones with a fancy office. But that doesn’t mean they’re the best fit for your dual occupancy or boutique subdivision.
Top developers look for consultants with:
- Local Council experience (especially with the specific planning overlays involved)
- Similar scale and budget projects
- A track record of adapting when things change
Tip: Town planners who’ve worked closely with your local Council’s pre-lodgement process can often fast-track your DA approval.
3. They choose collaborators, not checkbox tickers
The best consultants aren’t just technically skilled; they’re curious, communicative, and proactive. If a consultant says “Just tell me what you want”, that’s a red flag. You want someone who asks smart questions, spots risks early, and brings fresh ideas to the table.
“The most valuable consultants are partners. They care about the success of the whole project, not just their piece of the puzzle.” – Property Developer, QLD.
4. They don’t fall for the cheapest quote
Choosing a consultant based on price alone can be a trap. For example, a cheaper structural engineer might over-engineer the design to cover themselves, resulting in higher construction costs later. Experienced developers look beyond the quote to assess long-term value, efficiency, and communication style.
Instead of asking just “How much?”, they ask:
- How have you helped clients save time or money?
- Can you walk me through your process and how you manage changes?
This mindset helps avoid hidden costs that show up after contracts are signed.
5. They use a structured selection process
Rather than jumping straight to comparing quotes, experienced developers often use a two-step process:
| Step | What to do |
| 1. Request for Qualifications (RFQ) | Shortlist consultants based on relevant experience |
| 2. Request for Proposal (RFP) | Ask shortlisted candidates for quotes, timelines, and project approach |
This structure helps developers make fair comparisons based on both capability and cost without getting overwhelmed by too many choices.
Example project: Greenway Residences, Brisbane
A small developer planned a 40-unit sustainable townhouse project. Instead of choosing consultants based on price alone, they followed a structured selection process and focused on long-term value.
They brought in a town planner with strong Brisbane City Council ties, which helped speed up the DA process. A landscape architect was engaged early to ensure the design was green, functional, and Council-friendly. The structural engineer wasn’t the cheapest, but they offered a more efficient framing design, saving around $150,000 in build costs. The development consultant also played a key role in aligning the design with market demand.
The result? A faster approval process, lower construction costs, and a higher-quality product that stood out in the market.
