How Much Does It Cost to Start Deal Packaging in 2025?

Deal packaging can be incredibly rewarding for those who have the patience and able put the time and initial cost into building a sustainable, ethical and credible business. 

It doesn't happen over night and there will be up and down periods - much like running any other business. For those dedicated and passionate about their deal packaging strategies and location, you can build a successful business that works towards your longer-term goal, such as retirement, pot of cash to invest yourself, cash on the side for more holidays, or to be able to leave your full-time employment. 

How Do You Start Deal Packaging?

The first thing you need to do is make sure you are really invested mentally into deal packaging and the property sector. Are you willing to put in many hours, likely outside your current job, to setting up, promoting your services, viewing properties, networking to meet investors and much more?

Are you willing to learn how to run your business compliantly, and not cut corners just to try and get cash in quicker? (may work for some in the short-term but HMRC will very likely catchup at some point!). 

If you feel you are ready and this is what you want to do - then it's time to review the costs and requirements involved in running a deal packaging business. 

Deal Packaging Set Up Costs

We usually recommend budgeting around £2,200 when starting your business - these are based on the latest findings from our team in January 2025. 

We've broken down the costs that make up this figure below, however please note these will vary from business to business, depending on which redress scheme you choose, how many directors/shareholders you're planning to have, and of course which training provider you choose: 

1. Training & Documents

Training lays the foundation for your deal packaging business. We have spoken to many agents over teh years who have invested anywhere between £10,000 and £100,000 in property training courses.

Honestly, we feel this is too high for anyone starting out their business - and when you work out what you're going to be doing when sourcing, how long is it realistically going to take you to make this back?

Whichever training you choose, make sure it completely covers compliance (not just registering with a redress scheme, ICO and HMRC), it needs to thoroughly prepare you for the due diligence you must carry out on the investor, seller and of course the deal - each and every time:

• Clear Sourcing Process: You should leave the course with a full understanding of how sourcing works, including which tools and resources to use.
• Data Protection Training: Look for training that includes certification in GDPR compliance.
• Anti-Money Laundering (AML) Training: Certification in AML is a requirement for sourcing professionals.
• Provides you with 18x Legally Required Documents: including a Terms of Business Agreement (not an NDA) - it should show you how and when to use each of these - and why!

Good training will break all of the above down and simplify it into a process you can learn and follow. It may sound like a lot upfront - even a little daunting - but as with anything new, it's a process you need to learn - much like an estate agent or solicitor would. 

We offer our Complete Sourcing Programme, which includes all of the legally required training you need to operate and meet the current national minimum compliance standards.

The full course is currently available for just £1,198 - well below many other training courses out there, as we believe in giving agents the very best start, which won't take years to repay back through deals. 

This course will also provide you with the 18x documents you need AND gives you one free year of NAPSA Membership to access 1-2-1 support from their team. The aim of this course is to provide you with thorough knowledge, tools, resources and support to start your deal packaging business the best way. 

Tip: 

Don’t rush into completing registrations or purchases until your training and documents are complete. Starting with the right knowledge and skills will save you time, money, and headaches later. 

Having the right documents in place early allows you to streamline your processes and boost investor trust when you do start operating.  

2. Insurance 

Insurance is a non-negotiable investment to protect your business. Depending on your services, you will likely need:

• Professional Indemnity (PI) Insurance: anticipate paying £300-£350 per year. 
• Public Liability (PL) Insurance: If your role involves meeting clients or site visits, you’ll likely need this too. Costs here can vary.

These policies safeguard your sourcing business against unforeseen claims and legal issues, ensuring peace of mind as you grow.

3. Registrations and Memberships 

Running a compliant sourcing business requires several key registrations and memberships. These are crucial for adhering to legal and industry standards. Here’s a breakdown of expected costs in 2025:

• ICO Registration: £40 per year. This ensures compliance with data protection regulations (GDPR).
• Redress Scheme Registration: Choose between The Property Ombudsman (TPO) or Property Redress Scheme (PRS). Costs range from £140 to over £300 annually. 
• HMRC Registration for AML Supervision: £350 for the first year. 
• NAPSA Membership: Our programme includes your first year of membership for free! If you join separately, it’s £195 + VAT per year. 

Pro Tip: 

Complete your training and documents before registering for these memberships. This ensures you have the knowledge and materials needed to comply with their requirements and avoid wasting time waiting for renewals.

Are You Ready to Start Deal Packaging?

If the costs and commitment haven't deterred you from moving forwards, we would highly recommend your first step to be understanding the entire process and complete training BEFORE setting up your business or completing any registrations. 

Want to test out our training before committing? We are offering for just £1 for you to join our Introduction to Sourcing course - find out more here. 

1. Prioritise training to build your knowledge base.
2. Obtain and understand the use of essential documents.
3. Invest in insurance to protect your business.
4. Register with the necessary organisations to stay compliant.

The key is to take things step by step. Don’t rush the process, as many sourcing agents do, and risk wasting valuable time and money. Starting your business strategically will give you the confidence and freedom to build your brand and attract investors.

Make Your Investment Count 

If you’re ready to take the leap, our expert training programme ticks all the boxes. With in-depth training, certifications, documents, and guidance included, it’s all you need to succeed—for just £1,198. 

Why wait? Set yourself up for success today. Explore our training programme here.