What happens when two long-time property professionals — one with formal project management training and the other with a learn-by-doing approach — sit down to compare notes?

In this episode, Martin catches up with Midlands-based investor Dan Norman, a familiar face from Property Investors Network and Simon Zutshi's Mastermind Programme back in 2013. Having reconnected years later through Property Entrepreneur's Advanced Programme, the two reflect on how their contrasting paths have shaped their success in property today.

Dan shares how he built his portfolio through trial, error, and persistence — from his very first project, a three-bedroom probate property in Birmingham, to running multiple businesses in both property and the licensed trade. Unlike Martin, whose background includes formal project management education and structured systems, Dan's approach evolved organically through hands-on experience and learning from mistakes.

You'll learn:
✔️ How Dan's first "accidental" project led to a long-term property career
✔️ The difference between learning through experience vs formal training
✔️ How identity shapes decisions — investor, landlord, or project manager?
✔️ Why community and shared learning matter in property development
✔️ Lessons from the Mastermind programme and the ongoing influence of peer networks

 ✔️ How Dan saved Martin's business in 2016

This conversation is an honest and insightful look at two very different routes to success in property — and a reminder that there's no single right way to build your expertise, as long as you keep learning and evolving.

Contact Dan on all things property here - dan@RoverHomes.co.uk

And all things legacy planning here - dan@the-black-box.uk

Martin has been supporting property investors with their refurbishments since 2012 and he's here to support you as well.  Whether you just need an answer to a question or want to chat through the ways he can work with you then just book a FREE call on this LINK 

If you want to get started then Martin's book The Refurbishment Handbook is for you, grab your FREE copy now.

For more FREE tips and advice look for Refurbishment Mastery with Martin Rapley on Facebook and You Tube.

To be part of Martin's weekly group coaching calls and get access to online training courses and resources then check out his Project Management Accelerator programme.  It's a monthly subscription which you can cancel any time, do ensure that you use promo code VIPDISCOUNT20 to save £20 every month.1

You will find other ways to work with Martin on the Refurbishment Mastery website.

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Music: SPROUT by Ant.Survila (c) copyright 2024 Licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution Noncommercial (4.0) license. https://dig.ccmixter.org/files/AntSurvila/68107 Ft: J.Lang