The Property Funder Podcast

In this Q&A session, Property Funder host Michael Dean sits in the hot seat as Marketing Manager Davina Patel takes the reins to explore the remarkable journey of Avamore Capital. From its founding vision as a "three-year project" to becoming a billion-pound lender, Michael shares candid insights about building trust in volatile markets, revolutionizing property lending through technology, and why putting people first has been the secret to surviving Brexit, COVID, and everything in between. Discover how this specialist lender is using cutting-edge tech to transform the industry while never losing sight of the human element that drives real success.Guest: Davina Patel, Marketing Manager, Avamore CapitalGuest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davina-patel-53b986253/https://www.instagram.com/iamdavinaofficial/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #PropTech #FinTech #Leadership #Innovation #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship #TechTransformation #LendingInnovation #SMEDevelopment #FinancialServices #StartupGrowth #CompanyCulture #TrustInBusiness #DigitalTransformation #PropertyFunder

In this lively catch-up episode, Michael Dean sits down with returning guests James McGregor (P10 Financial Group) and Jack Bristow (J3 Advisory) to talk all things property finance, insurance, and the realities of today’s development market. They dig into how businesses are adapting to tighter margins, shifting regulations, and changing talent dynamics—from managing cost bases to coping with the post-COVID work culture. Expect candid insights, laughs, and a few strong opinions on mergers, working from home, and why resilience (and communication) still make the best business strategy.Guest Socials:https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcgregor-p10https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackmbristow/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this lively episode, Michael reunites with previous guests Andrew Robinson and Matthew Yasin for an update on their businesses, the evolving property finance market, and plenty of laughs along the way. From "Yasin-isms" to discussions on AI, market consolidation, and building strong advisory brands, the conversation covers the challenges and opportunities in specialist finance.Guests:Andrew Robinson, CEO of Arc & Co.https://www.arcandco.com/Matthew Yassin, MD of Aquilae Capitalhttps://aquilae-capital.com/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

Host Michael Dean sits down with two leading figures in specialist finance recruitment: Stuart Hicks, founder and managing director of City and Capital, and Dan from Infintelligence. The conversation explores the evolution of the specialist lending market over the past decade, the challenges of founder syndrome in growing businesses, and how the talent pool has matured. They discuss the importance of embracing expertise, the impact of technology and AI on the industry, the potential for market consolidation, and share some dramatic placement stories from their recruitment careers. The episode offers valuable insights for both employers and candidates navigating the specialist finance sector. Guests:Dan Greenhalgh - Managing Director, Fintelligenthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/realestatefinanceheadhunter/Stuart Hicks - Founder and Managing Director, City and Capital Recruitmenthttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-hicks-fs1/ Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this episode, host Michael Dean sits down with three key leaders from Avamore Capital: Ed Blundell (Head of Underwriting), Harry Yates (Head of Transactions and Structuring), and Adam Butler (Director of Sales and Marketing). They discuss their roles, the impact of technology on operations, leadership styles, personal branding, work-life balance, and advice for their younger selves. The conversation highlights the company's growth, efficiency improvements, and focus on structured solutions in property finance.Guests: Ed Blundell, Harry Yates, Adam Butler.Sponsored by: Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #Motivation

Back with Marcus and Colin for a tactical cut on personal branding that actually converts — and a frank read on the UK valuation landscape. Marcus hammers home authenticity: be the same person online and in the room. Colin explains why he posts when he has something to say (not to feed the algorithm), how humour and professionalism can coexist, and why engaging content beats paid reach. Then they pull back the curtain on valuations in 2024–25: inflated vendor expectations from the Covid era, lender inconsistency, and why comps and underwriting discipline matter more than ever.#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #MotivationSponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

Recruiter Marcus Nansen (NRG Resourcing) and valuer-turned-founder Colin Horton (Projects & Co) get straight about ethical hiring, why some BDMs hop jobs, and what it takes to build a valuation firm that wins work against legacy players. Marcus lays out how he “fell into” recruitment after 2008 and rebuilt around people-first process. Colin shares the LinkedIn tactics that opened doors and the operational lessons from scaling fast. Expect practical takes on retention, team structure, and how not to torch relationships in a small market.#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #MotivationSponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

In this special retrospective episode of the Property Funder Podcast, we take a deep dive into the wealth of wisdom shared by our guests over the course of the series. This episode is a heartfelt reflection on the timeless question posed to each of our guests: "What advice would you give your younger self?" By revisiting these insightful responses, we’ve curated a collection of powerful, thought-provoking, and actionable "nuggets of wisdom".  #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #MotivationSponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

In this engaging continuation of their discussion on the UK housing market, host Michael Dean is joined by mortgage brokers Martin Stewart and Mike Lawler. The trio delves into the future of the mortgage industry, the impact of technology and changing demographics, and the challenges facing property investors. They also touch on Martin’s fictional book, Goodbye Morecambe, and the importance of creativity and authenticity in both professional and personal endeavours.Guests:Martin Stewart - https://x.com/LondonMoneyFSMichael Lawlor - https://x.com/mortgagemiken2Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #Motivation

In this lively debate-style episode, host Michael Dean brings together mortgage experts Mike Lawlor and Martin Stewart to discuss the current state of the UK housing market. Drawing from their ongoing Twitter exchanges, they explore whether the market is crashing, correcting, or simply facing media hype. Topics include regional divergences, affordability challenges, rental demand, and predictions from figures like "Moving Home with Charlie." The conversation also touches on broader economic factors like unemployment, interest rates, and demographic shifts. This is Part 1 of a two-part series.Guests:Martin Stewart - https://x.com/LondonMoneyFSMichael Lawlor - https://x.com/mortgagemiken2Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #Motivation

In this retrospective episode of the Property Funder Podcast we deep dive into the current state of the mortgage broking industry, focusing on predictions for 2025 and the role of technology and AI in business operations. Guest speakers discuss the potential for market stability, particularly in interest rates, and the optimism surrounding increased acquisition activities. The episode explores the integration of AI to enhance efficiency, with examples such as automating inquiry logging and credit paper writing. Discussions also cover team dynamics, including headcount strategies and the implementation of AI to streamline processes.#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #MotivationSponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

In part two of The Property Funder Podcast with Lucy Waters, host Michael Dean dives deeper into Lucy’s journey as Managing Director of Aria Finance. This episode explores the acquisition of Vantage Finance by the ENRA Group, the subsequent merger with Enterprise Finance, and the challenges of blending two competing businesses. Lucy shares insights on leadership, market trends, and her vision for Aria Finance’s future, offering valuable lessons for anyone in the specialist finance or property sectors. Guest: Lucy WatersGuest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyhodgevantage/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #Motivation

In this episode of The Property Funder Podcast, host Michael Dean interviews Lucy Waters, Managing Director of Aria Finance and a pioneer in the specialist finance industry. Lucy shares her inspiring career journey, from launching Vantage Finance at the age of 18 to overcoming the 2008 subprime crisis and growing her business into a leading specialist finance brokerage. With over two decades of experience, she provides deep insights into leadership, resilience, and the power of delivering exceptional service in a competitive market.Guest: Lucy WatersGuest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyhodgevantage/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #Motivation

In this retrospective episode of the Property Funder Podcast we take a look back at the career journeys of a selection of our recent guests. These diverse stories showcase the many ways people adapt to new opportunities, build valuable networks, and embrace lifelong learning to thrive in the industry. Tune in to hear inspiring tales of resilience and growth, and feel free to share your own experiences with our community! #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker#MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging#Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring#Motivation

In this episode, host Michael Dean introduces Greg and Jacob, the newly appointed Managing Directors at Avamore Capital. This is more than just an introduction — it’s a deep dive into their leadership philosophies, career trajectories, and vision for reshaping the future of specialist property finance. Expect candid insights, a few laughs, and plenty of value for anyone in development finance.Get in Touch:Gregory Tarnhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-tarn-2322ba7b/gt@avamorecapital.comJacob Bouet Andersenhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobbouet/jba@avamorecapital.comSponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

In this episode of the Property Funder Podcast, host Michael Dean welcomes back returning guest Adam Stiles, Managing Director of Helix Financial Partners. Since his last appearance, Helix has grown from a team of three to a thriving nine-person brokerage, and Adam shares the ups and downs of scaling a business during a volatile market.The conversation dives into the evolution of Helix’s offering, including residential and buy-to-let mortgages, protection products, and structured finance. Adam discusses the importance of moving from working in the business to on the business, and how coaching has reshaped their approach to leadership and growth.They also unpack current trends across property finance, from 100% mortgages and JV deal structures to developer appetite, planning bottlenecks, and the often-frustrating valuation process. Adam shares hard-won insights on navigating professional relationships with valuers, lawyers, and lenders—and how clarity, speed, and communication remain crucial in today’s market.The pair also discuss market predictions, the increasing role of semi-commercial investments, and why brokers must broaden their knowledge of different finance types. It’s a wide-ranging, candid chat full of value for brokers, lenders, developers, and anyone involved in property finance.Guest: Adam StilesGuest Socials:https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamstilesuk/https://www.helixfp.co.uk/https://www.linkedin.com/company/helix-structured-finance-ltd/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com#PropertyFinance #SpecialistFinance #BridgingLoans #DevelopmentFinance #MortgageBroker #CommercialFinance #BuyToLet #RealEstateInvestment #FinanceBroker #PropertyDevelopment

Michael Dean is joined by Sam Norris, founder and managing director of Grand Union Finance. Sam shares his unique approach to property finance, emphasizing creativity, efficiency, and the importance of building strong client relationships. This episode is packed with insights for anyone looking to navigate the evolving property market. Guest:Sam Norris is the founder and managing director of Grand Union Finance, a specialist mortgage brokerage supporting property investors and developers worldwide. With over 18 years of experience in the finance industry, Sam has built a reputation for providing creative and tailored financial solutions. He is also the host of the popular podcast Game of Loans, where he shares expert insights into property finance.Guest Socials:https://www.instagram.com/thesamnorris/https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesamnorris/https://www.youtube.com/@thesamnorrisSponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

Michael Dean sits down with Sam Norris, founder and managing director of Grand Union Finance. Sam shares his inspiring journey from a trainee broker to building a thriving mortgage brokerage, offering valuable insights into the property finance industry and the importance of persistence in overcoming challenges.Guest:Sam Norris is the founder and managing director of Grand Union Finance, a specialist mortgage brokerage supporting property investors and developers worldwide. With over 18 years of experience in the finance industry, Sam has built a reputation for providing creative and tailored financial solutions. He is also the host of the popular podcast Game of Loans, where he shares expert insights into property finance.Guest Socials:https://www.instagram.com/thesamnorris/https://www.linkedin.com/in/thesamnorris/https://www.youtube.com/@thesamnorrisSponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

In this episode of the Property Funder podcast, host Michael Dean welcomes Beth Fisher, managing director of Media Net Publishing. Beth dives into the pivotal role of events in driving revenue, the enduring value of niche print magazines, and the evolving landscape of specialist finance. From navigating editorial integrity to predicting AI’s impact on lending, Beth offers a wealth of insights for industry professionals and enthusiasts alike. Tune in for a dynamic discussion on publishing, market trends, and the future of finance.Guest: Beth FisherGuest Socials:https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-fisher-10243790/https://bridgingandcommercial.co.uk/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com

In this episode of the Property Funder podcast, host Michael Dean sits down with Beth Fisher, the managing director of Medianett Publishing. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Beth shares her journey from journalist to leader, offering valuable insights into the world of publishing. Join Michael and Beth for a candid conversation filled with industry insights, strategic takeaways, and a look into the future of Medianett Publishing. Whether you're a seasoned publisher or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways.Guest: Beth FisherGuest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-fisher-10243790/https://bridgingandcommercial.co.uk/Sponsored by:Avamore Capitalhttps://avamorecapital.com