A developer is a person or company that initiates, finances, and manages real estate development projects, transforming land or existing buildings into new residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed-use properties. Developers handle site acquisition, financing, planning approvals, design coordination, construction management, and marketing or sales. The development industry ranges from individuals building a few homes to large corporations developing entire neighbourhoods or downtown towers. Developers must navigate complex regulatory processes including zoning amendments, site plan approvals, environmental assessments, and building permits. Their projects shape communities—determining housing types and affordability, employment opportunities, tax base, and neighbourhood character. Municipal relationships with developers involve balancing encouragement of beneficial development against protecting community interests through appropriate regulation and community benefit requirements.