The Property Funder Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Alex Kountourides, co-founder of Valos, to challenge the assumption that all proptech is racing to replace human expertise. Alex shares how his experience as a qualified surveyor revealed a massive gap in the market—valuers were drowning in administrative tasks rather than doing what they're trained for: determining value. Valos flips the AVM model on its head by automating the busywork, not the valuer. We dive into the nuanced future of human valuations across different asset classes, dissect what's broken in the proptech industry (spoiler: oversaturation and chasing VC money), and hear Alex's candid take on why bootstrapping has given them control of their destiny. If you're curious about building sustainable proptech or rethinking automation in real estate, this one's for you. Guest: Alex Kountourides Guest Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexkountourides/ Instagram: @akountourides Sponsored by:Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

Shazad Ahmed, aka 'Where's Shaz' and Director of Elan Property Finance, takes us on a brutally honest journey through modern brokerage from his South Wales base. We explore the reality check newer investors need (spoiler: that £10k savings pot won't go as far as the property guru promised), the dark side of private finance and Ponzi-adjacent schemes promising 30% returns, and why deal sourcing isn't the dirty word mortgage lenders think it is. Shaz reveals how solicitors are holding deals hostage with capacity issues and suspiciously convenient delays, shares his vibe coding experiments with AI tools that summarise 50-page credit files in plain English, and explains why LinkedIn post hijacking is the ultimate cardinal sin. We dissect HMO valuation concerns that keep credit teams up at night, debate whether families will have anywhere left to live, explore the receivership red flags killing future refinances, and discuss why communication with lenders beats going ghost every single time. Plus, Shaz's advice to his 21-year-old self about peaking earlier might just be the reality check we all needed. Guest: Shazad Ahmed, Director of Elan Property Finance Guest Socials: https://www.instagram.com/wheresshaz/ https://www.tiktok.com/@wheresshaz https://www.youtube.com/@Wheresshaz https://www.linkedin.com/in/shazadahmed/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

It's episode 100! To mark this milestone, Michael sits down with Jordan McBriar and D’mitri Zaprzala, directors of the newly launched Broker Club. The pair reveal their ambitious plan to create a nationwide network of specialist brokers covering all 48 counties across England and Wales—and they're already 42 counties in with 68 applications. This isn't just another networking group; it's a genuine collaboration model designed for established one to three-person brokerages who want to be part of something bigger. They discuss the overwhelming response from the market, unexpected benefits that emerged, lender reactions, and what makes a good broker-lender relationship. Plus, there's some friendly football banter between an Arsenal and a Man City fan. If you're curious about the future of specialist brokering and what happens when you bring the best regional brokers under one roof, this is essential listening. Guests: Jordan McBriar and D’mitri Zaprzala Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-mcbriar-19341477/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/d-mitri-zaprzala-70416819/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

George Ormerod, Relationship Manager at Avamore Capital, takes us through his unconventional journey from COVID-era estate agent at Foxtons to rising star in development finance. We dive into the reality behind the Foxtons reputation, explore the transferable skills that set George apart (spoiler: it's not about dropping donuts), and discuss why picking up the phone still matters in a WhatsApp world. George shares hard-won lessons about building trust without over-promising, breaking into competitive broker relationships, and why being memorable – even if you're Marmite – beats being forgettable every time. Plus, we examine the current property market, debate flats versus houses, discuss tech adoption battles (George is now a believer), and reveal why patience and persistence trump overnight success. If you're curious about what separates average BDMs from exceptional ones, this conversation delivers the blueprint. Guest: George Ormerod, Relationship Manager at Avamore Capital Guest Socials: go@avamorecapital.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/george-ormerod-126aa61aa/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

Ash Ajaz, aka The People's Broker and founder of Focus Finance Solutions, shares his remarkable journey from being pushed into entrepreneurship in 2020 to building a thriving brokerage with over 500 educational YouTube videos. We explore why he believes the toughest years for brokers created the best opportunities, how he uses education as his secret weapon for lead generation (with clients calling from Dubai after discovering his content), and why checking your credit score regularly isn't just smart – it's essential. Ash breaks down why the SME finance market is criminally underserved, reveals the pitfalls that kill developer profits (hello, building control nightmares), and explains his 'jab, jab, jab, right hook' approach to content creation. Plus, we discuss why AI is a tool not a threat, the importance of building a personal brand that means something, and why teaching his eight-year-old Excel might be the smartest investment he's making. If you're wondering how to stand out in a crowded market through authentic education and relentless consistency, this conversation is your blueprint. Guest: Ash Ajaz, Founder & CEO of Focus Finance Solutions (The People's Broker) Guest Socials: @thepeoplesbroker https://www.instagram.com/thepeoplesbroker/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashajaz/ https://www.tiktok.com/@the.peoples.broker https://www.youtube.com/@focusfinancechannel Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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, Beth Fisher and Ellen Townsend from Medianett drop a bombshell announcement over Diddy vodka (yes, really): they're halving their client base to focus on premium partnerships. We explore the bold strategy behind cutting from 90 marketing clients to a select group, why being boutique beats being glorified admin, and how editorial independence remains sacred even as they become extensions of clients' teams. Beth and Ellen reveal their massive website rebrand launching April 2026 with AI-powered trend reporting, rotating banner ads that fight 'furniture syndrome,' and a complete shift towards AIO optimization over traditional SEO. We discuss the commercial mortgage surge dominating 2026 conversations, debate whether M&A consolidation will finally happen (Beth's been calling it for four years), and explore why the market might go full circle back to privately-funded niche lenders. Plus, insights on personal versus corporate branding challenges, and why trust and relationships remain the currency that actually matters in specialist finance. Guests: Beth Fisher & Ellen Townsend, Medianett Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bethany-fisher-10243790/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellen-townsend-006110153/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

In this special retrospective episode, we're looking back at some of the standout moments from recent conversations. We revisit Markus from NRG Recruitment discussing what sets great recruiters apart and his brilliantly unconventional LinkedIn strategy involving gym sessions and terrible puns. We relive the unforgettable reveal of Matt's 'Yassinisms' – those wonderfully obscure sayings that baffled the entire Avamore office back in 2019. Plus, we hear again from the Avamore leadership team – Ed, Harry, and Adam – as they reflect on growth, the dangers of founder syndrome, why embracing expertise beats trying to know it all, and how partnerships have been the secret sauce to their success. It's a greatest hits compilation of wisdom, laughs, and genuine insights from the world of specialist finance. Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Recruitment #SpecialistLending #Bridging #Development #Business #Leadership #Hiring #TalentAcquisition #FounderSyndrome #Headhunting #FinancialServices #CareerDevelopment #StartupGrowth #PropertyDevelopment #RealEstateFinance #BusinessStrategy #TeamBuilding #Entrepreneurship

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 Capital Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davina-patel-53b986253/ https://www.instagram.com/iamdavinaofficial/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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-p10 https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackmbristow/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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 Capital https://aquilae-capital.com/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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, Fintelligent https://www.linkedin.com/in/realestatefinanceheadhunter/ Stuart Hicks - Founder and Managing Director, City and Capital Recruitment https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-hicks-fs1/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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 Capital https://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 #Motivation Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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 #Motivation Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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 #Motivation Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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/LondonMoneyFS Michael Lawlor - https://x.com/mortgagemiken2 Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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/LondonMoneyFS Michael Lawlor - https://x.com/mortgagemiken2 Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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 #Motivation Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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 Waters Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyhodgevantage/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://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 Waters Guest Socials: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucyhodgevantage/ Sponsored by: Avamore Capital https://avamorecapital.com #SpecialistFinance #PropertyFinance #Broker #MortgageBroker #Finance #PropertyDevelopment #PropertyDevelopers #Bridging #Development #Refurbishment #Business #InspirationalLeaders #Inspiring #Motivation