Napthens’ Real Estate Club brings market realities into focus

Property professionals from across the North West attended the latest Napthens' Real Estate Club (NREC) event at Brindle Distillery on June 25.

The event, ‘Real Estate Realities – how deals are playing out in 2026’, brought together experts from across the sector to discuss how the market is evolving and what this means for those funding, delivering and managing real estate transactions.

The evening featured two panel discussions. The first, ‘The 2026 deal room: who's funding what – and why’, examined changing funding dynamics, the growing role of alternative and structured finance, and the increasing importance of certainty, track record and evidence in securing deals.

The second, ‘When it works – and when it doesn't: lessons from the market’, explored what happens after completion, including why some assets outperform while others underperform, and how investors and lenders are responding when schemes no longer meet expectations..

Across both discussions, speakers agreed market activity remains strong but more disciplined, with funders and investors taking a more selective, evidence-led approach. They also highlighted the increasing complexity of capital structures, the need for flexibility, and the growing importance of asset quality and long-term viability.

Jamie Allison, head of real estate at Napthens, said: “What came through clearly from both panels is that deals are still getting done, but only where there is clarity, credibility and a well-structured proposition.

“Funders are engaged, but expectations are higher, and the market rewards those who are prepared and realistic about both risk and opportunity.”

Richard Lancaster, branch manager at Handelsbanken's East Lancashire branch, added: “Events like this bring a lot of good people together. I'm a firm believer in learning all the time, and this is a great example of that in practice.

“There's a real opportunity to hear different perspectives and take something away from the discussion.”