Experienced underwriting, fair terms, a good team and quality introducers make for success.

Twenty-two years has got to tell you something (and no, it is not that I am insane, I had the tests and I am certified!). The truth is I thoroughly enjoy it. I love the variety. No two applications are ever the same. With an infinite number of scenarios and potential outcomes unique to every application, it really keeps you on your toes.

I started in this business as a secured loan broker, I have been involved in second charge lending, non-status first mortgage broking and short-term bridging lending, encompassing most forms of secured property finance. I took and passed both CeRGI and CeMAP in 2004 prior to the mandatory requirement stipulated by the FCA.

Holme Finance Bridging Solutions entered into short-term bridging loan lending alongside the non-status mortgage broking around 2000 (albeit on a small scale, funding deals with our own monies and gradually attracting additional funding from private sources). This makes us one of the very first to be involved in bridging finance.

•   Specialist bank issues its largest ever bridging loan
•   Roma launches 0.75% bridging rate offer
•   Is it still bridging if it takes 50 days to complete?

Following the financial crash in 2007, non-status mortgage broking simply ceased and we recognised an opportunity to increase lending to fill the gap left by the banks.

I embraced change, the business embraced change and since that point we have continued to shun bank or other corporate funding to plough our own furrow with significant increases in our private funding lines and a growing book value.

I always say: “Do not look at the glass as half full or half empty, just be aware it is refillable.” There are bumps in any road, but we’ve negotiated around them and continued to grow and developed an unrivalled product.

The biggest thing I’ve learnt is that flexibility really is the key. As a privately funded lender, we can make immediate decisions and in most cases complete without the aid of solicitors. We are also happy to consider the 'quirkier' deals or those outside our terms. Think of our advances as a secured loan, only shorter!

I’ve made a million mistakes, but building our business isn’t one of them, neither is our model which offers unrivalled flexibility. So, in summary, I am only just getting started and looking forward more than ever to building long-lasting business relationships with some fantastic introducers; doing what we do best: providing a genuine service and lightning quick bridging loans.

Here is to the next 22!