Shows
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastUnlocking responsible UK Residential investment at scale with Anna Clare Harper, CEO of GreenResiSend us a textMy good friend Andrew Teacher grilled me in my capacity as CEO of GreenResi on unlocking responsible UK residential investment at scale.Topics include: The residential market opportunity: scale, growing income and resilience underpinned by demographics How to deploy rapidly at scale: acquiring granular existing rentals for faster, less risky, less carbon intensive access to residential vs Build to Rent How processes can be optimised to improve efficiency and reliability throughout the deal lifecycle Anna Clare Harper L...2024-03-1430 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat does scrapping EPC targets mean for residential? Rod Turner x Anna Clare Harper, CEO of GreenResiSend us a textIn this episode I share my thoughts on the scrapping of proposed Minimum Energy Efficiency Standards of EPC C+ for properties to be legally rented out. The tables were turned and I joined Rod Turner on his Property Business Investment ‘Rodcast’ in my capacity as CEO of GreenResi, which helps residential investors with portfolios worth £100m+ to make efficient, reliable buy, sell and upgrade decisions at scale, so that they can future proof and grow portfolios in the context of the urgent need to retrofit homes.2023-10-1235 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat the drive for building safety means for professionals and their liability with John Winter of Apex Insurance and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textThe post-Grenfell drive for improved building safety has, rightly, shaken up the construction industry.One consequence of many, is the significant change in the costs of Professional Indemnity Insurance and the timeframes it is needed for.I spoke to John Winter from Apex Insurance about: Extended liability periods: from 6 years from practical completion on a project to 15 years, and a new retrospective right to claim for 30 years, leaving firms open to claims dating back to the mid-nineties. Increased costs of cover: with cheaper insurance providers leaving the market...2023-01-1927 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat’s happening in the UK rental market? With Richard Donnell, Executive Director at Zoopla and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI chatted to Richard Donnell, Executive Director at Zoopla, about the UK rental market in Q4 2022.Some highlights: 12.1% annual rental price growth Demand is 46% above average, and total supply is 38% below the 5 year averages Rental (un)affordability is at a 10 year peak of 35% for single earners, which explains by 3.6m 20-34 year olds are living with their families (not far off the size of the entire social rented sector, at 4.2m households).Guest website: https://www.zoopla.co.uk/Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-donnell-a043833a...2023-01-0514 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastSingle Family Rental investment in Europe with Alexandra Thur, former founding team member at Blackstone-backed Invitation Homes & Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI chatted to Alexandra Thur, Founder of Tollington Group and former founding team member at Blackstone-backed Invitation Homes and B2R about the emergence of Single Family Rental as an institutionally-accepted asset class.We covered: The market conditions needed to make Single-Family Rental work in the US The growth of US Single-Family Rental, to ⅓ of homes in some cities What European investors can learn from the US experience, from technological capabilities to considering the needs of local communities up frontGuest website: https://www.tollingtongroup.com/Guest Lin...2022-12-2214 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastIs this the end of property investment ‘for dummies’? With Melanie Bien, award-winning PR specialist, former Finance Editor of the Independent, and property 'for dummies' author and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI sat down with Melanie Bien, award-winning PR specialist, former Personal Finance Editor of the Independent on Sunday, and author of four best-selling property 'for dummies' books to talk about what’s driving the market and whether property investment still makes sense ‘for dummies’.Key topics include: What the end of an era of cheap finance really means for residential property How close we are to the peak of rent growth A whistle stop tour of the key market changes since 2020Guest website: https://www.bienmedia.com/Guest L...2022-12-0817 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastMaking Tax Digital with CEO and Founder of leading property finance platform, Hammock, Manoj Varsani MBE and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textManoj Varsani MBE joined me on the podcast this week to talk about: Using tech for good, including establishing SOS Supplies to provide £5m worth of PPE to those in need through Covid Making Tax Digital - what landlords need to know about upcoming changes to reporting requirements, and why automated financial management makes sense in the context of the upcoming 5 x annual deadlines Using software to make property compliance easier, including budgeting for energy performance upgrades to comply with Minimum Energy Efficiency StandardsGuest website: https://www.usehammock.com/2022-11-2420 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastRICS and the shift to Net Zero - from guidance to lenders to whole life carbon assessment with Luay Al-Khatib, Director of Standards, RICS and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI caught up with Luay Al-Khatib, Director of Standards for the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors on the role of RICS in the shift to Net Zero.Key topics include: Whole life carbon assessment - because you can’t manage what you don’t measure Guidance to lenders - vital as this influences the viability of schemes, investments and even home purchases Upskilling and improving knowledge to improve the energy efficiency of real estate - from surveys to retrofits Governance in surveying and the importance of independenceGuest website: https...2022-11-1023 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHousing market trends with Head of UK Residential Research at Savills and leading housing market commentator Lucian Cook and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had the pleasure of catching up with Lucian Cook, Head of UK Residential Research at Savills and leading housing market commentator on the pod.Key topics include: What’s happened in mainstream and prime housing in the last 2 years Economic, social and environmental sustainability and housing policy How scrapping mortgage affordability tests will affect house prices What next for UK house prices (the least inaccurate forecasts)?Guest website: https://www.savills.co.uk/people/savills-margaret-street/lucian-cook.aspxGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lucian-cook/...2022-10-2725 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat’s happening in the UK rental market? With Richard Donnell, Executive Director at Zoopla and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had the pleasure of digging into the key trends in the UK rental market this quarter with Executive Director at Zoopla, Richard Donnell.Key topics include: 12.3% annual rental price growth - set against a 46% reduction in available stock indicating a landlord exodus Why premium rents are rising faster Renter strategies for the cost of living crisis, from renting flats (demand for which has increased significantly) to sharing vs living alone What next for the UK rental market, and the peak in rental price growthGuest website: https://www...2022-10-1318 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastClimate Change Risk Adaptation with Baroness Brown of Cambridge, Julia King, Chair of the Adaption Committee on the Climate Change Committee and the Carbon Trust and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI was honoured to have Baroness Brown of Cambridge DBE FREng FRS, Julia King on the podcast to talk about adapting to climate change risk in real estate.She's currently Chair of the Adaptation Committee of the UK Climate Change Committee, which she has been a member of since it was formed in 2008. She also chairs the Carbon Trust, is a non-executive director of Ørsted and of Ceres Power and a member of the Government’s Hydrogen Advisory Committee. Previous roles include as the UK’s Low Carbon Business Ambassador, Non-Executive Direc...2022-09-2931 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastDubai housing and ESG with Dr Michael Waters, Director of Studies for Real Estate at Heriott-Watt University and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textDr Michael Waters, Director of Studies for Real Estate at Heriot-Watt University, joined me on the podcast this week.Highlights include: The genesis and journey of Dubai real estate - including how not being a democracy makes it easier to build to a long term vision Who buys Dubai housing and why, from tax benefits to glamour Financing and the recent decriminalisation of loan defaults Sustainability: mandatory green building codes, ratings and international ESG standardsGuest website: https://www.hw.ac.uk/dubai/profiles/teaching/michael-waters.htm...2022-09-1527 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastBuilding new build housing at scale with Cedric Bucher, CEO of specialist PRS fund manager Hearthstone, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI was delighted to speak to Cedric Bucher, CEO of Hearthstone Investments, specialistPrivate Rental Sector fund manager with 1,400+ homes under management.We covered: The case for new builds vs existing properties Institutional investors reporting requirements Moving towards sustainable UK residential propertyGuest website: https://www.hearthstone.co.uk/Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cedric-bucher-8490329/Sponsor website: immo.capitalSponsor LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/immoinvesttech/Host website: annaclareharper.comHost LinkedIn: https://www...2022-09-0123 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastESG responsibilities and the benefits of becoming a B Corp with Professor Andrew Baum, internationally-respected real estate professional, academic and author and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had the chance to chat to Professor Andrew Baum about the E, S and G responsibilities of investors, developers and professionals in real estate, and what it means to become a B Corp.Andrew is one of the most influential people in real estate and proptech with credentials include being Chairman at Newcore Capital Management (a B Corp), Strategy Partner at PiLabs, Advisor at IMMO, on the Investment Committee at CBRE Investment Management Indirect and as Emeritus Professor at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. He has als...2022-08-2325 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastUK’s first 100% renewable district heating scheme with Emma Fletcher, MD of Evera and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had a fascinating chat with the brilliant Emma Fletcher about the UK’s first 100% renewable district heating scheme and Housing Association development challenges - two massive topics at the heart of environmentally and socially responsible residential property.Emma is the Managing Director at Evera, a partnership of four Housing Associations in the East of England - which collectively owns and manages over 100,000 homes. She’s also the Chair of Swaffham Prior Community Land Trust, which is developing a ground-breaking village-wide renewable energy supply.In short, she’s a pretty...2022-08-0419 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastResearch vs practice in property with Professor Franz Fuerst, leading real estate academic at the University of Cambridge and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textProfessor Franz Fuerst is the leading light in real estate research, in particular as it relates to sustainability.So he’s the perfect person to ask about the undeniable gulf between academic research and what happens in practice in the real estate industry.And, with the rise of machine learning and the democratisation of data, the risks ahead are growing.We talked about topics on this theme including: Reputation, funding, profit and vested interests Academic-business partnerships - and how the European real estate industry differs from th...2022-07-2122 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastInheritance with Ann-Marie Atkins, award-winning Financial Planner and Managing Partner at Evelyn Partners, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textInheritance can be an awkward topic. No surprise, since it involves both death and taxes. As a result, many of us fail to plan for the people we love. Worse still, good people can turn bad when it comes to money.Ann-Marie Atkins, award-winning Financial Planner and Managing Partner at Evelyn Partners, joined me on the pod to talk about passing on, or indeed inheriting wealth smoothly.We covered: Common mistakes Advice on planning for the inevitable Trusts, taxes and marriageResources:...2022-07-0722 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow software can solve the multi-trillion dollar waste problem with May Al-Karooni, Founder of Globechain, the leading ESG reporting and reuse marketplace worldwide and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textTrillions of dollars of usable fixtures and fittings are thrown away each year.Most of us don’t even know the financial cost of this waste, let alone the environmental cost.So how do we solve that problem?I had the chance to chat with May Al-Karooni, the Founder of Globechain.com, which is the leading ESG reporting and reuse marketplace worldwide.Topics include how Globechain’s 10,000 members are using software to measure and manage their ESG impacts and recycle unwanted fixtures, fittings and furniture - fr...2022-06-2320 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow fast are UK rents growing? With Head of Research at Zoopla, Gráinne Gilmore and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textZoopla’s Head of Research, Gráinne Gilmore, joined me to discuss what’s happening to UK rental pricing up and down the country.Gráinne was previously Head of Residential Research and Knight Frank, and an award-winning Economics Correspondent for The Times before her role at Zoopla.So, she’s well-placed to explain what’s happening to prices and why in the UK rental market.Highlights of this episode include: What’s happening in London vs the rest of the UK The recovery of inner city rental...2022-06-0914 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat does inflation mean for real estate investors? With Andrew Baum, internationally-respected real estate professional, academic and author and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textTo find out, I sat down with Andrew Baum, one of the most influential people in real estate and proptech. His credentials include being Chairman at Newcore Capital Management, Strategy Partner at PiLabs, Advisor at IMMO, on the Investment Committee at CBRE and as Emeritus Professor at the University of Oxford’s Saïd Business School. He has also written six books on real estate investment with combined sales of over 75,000 - including the books I used at Cambridge!Highlights of this episode include: What asset classes make sense to inv...2022-05-2616 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastSustainable Residential Investing Book + 4 years of the pod! With Anna Clare HarperSend us a textTo mark 4 years of the pod, and the launch of my latest book, Sustainable Residential Investing, the latest episode covers key market trends and changes of the last 4 years.Topics include: The impacts of political uncertainty on real estate Using tech for good, and avoiding drinking the proptech koolaid (e.g. WeWork valuation; NFTs). Sustainable Residential Investing - and a 25% discount for my new book on this topic.Check it out via the link below!https://www.routledge.com/Sustainable-Residential-Investing-How-to-Make-Profits-with-Positive-Impacts/Harper/p/book/9781032053097 https://annaclareharper.c...2022-05-1210 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastCan tech solve the climate change problem? with Roelof Opperman, Partner at leading proptech venture capital firm, Fifthwall and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textReal estate is responsible for 40% of global carbon emissions. And reductions have flatlined…So how can we use tech to solve the climate change problem?I spoke to Roelof Opperman, Partner at leading proptech venture capital firm, Fifthwall, on this topic.Highlights include: If considered a country, the cement industry would be the third largest CO2 contributor in the world behind only the US and China. The commercial advantages of climate action in real estate The most exciting innovations at each stage of the carbon life cy...2022-04-2824 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow to measure and improve sustainability of real estate with University of Cambridge Professor Franz Fuerst and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI loved chatting to leading green real estate economist, University of Cambridge Professor Franz Fuerst, about measuring and improving the sustainability of real estate for the podcast.Topics included: How the urgent situation in Ukraine affects important work in environmental performance of buildings The impact of Goodhart’s Law: "When a measure becomes a target, it ceases to be a good measure" How we can understand and improve both potential and actual environmental and social performance of buildings, from knowing the limitations of EPCs to measuring spatial efficiency, walkability and ‘walk...2022-04-1431 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastBeing a woman in property and investment with Rebekah Tobias, Head of Business Development at Family Office Marcol and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textQ: Is talking about gender diversity (and indeed, any kind of diversity) in real estate and investment a waste of time?A: Yes, unless it’s backed up by action.So what kind of action can we take?I got together with Rebekah Tobias, Head of Business Development at Family Office Marcol, to talk about: The realities of being a career-focused woman in investment International Women’s Day signalling vs reality (the paygap in our industry has got *worse* by 11% in the last 7 years) The power of e...2022-03-1723 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastData and residential property in 2022 with Gavriel Merkado, Founder of leading residential data firm REalyse, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhat are the key trends showing up in residential data right now?What are the biggest influences on house and rental pricing, and how do you quantify them?How can investors use data to work out the next hotspot, before it’s over-heated?Will machines replace people in property investment decisions?Some of the questions I got to ask Gavriel Merkado, Founder of leading residential data firm REalyse, in our latest episode of the podcast.Guest website: https://www.realyse.com/Ho...2022-03-0325 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhen to change (last in the mini-series!) with Victoria Hall, leadership consultant at YSC and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textFor the last episode in this pod mini-series on life and legacy with the wonderful Victoria Hall, it seemed fitting to talk about the ‘art of changing’.Victoria is a Leadership Consultant whose career has ranged from Operational Due Diligence at the UK’s largest private pension fund, to assessing C-Suite executives for major corporates and private equity firms. She’s super smart, with a first in Land Economy from Cambridge, where we met, and an MSC in psychology.Her mid-covid cancer diagnosis has given her a unique perspective on what...2022-02-1720 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWork life balance and early retirement with Victoria Hall, leadership consultant at YSC and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhat’s the right work life balance and how do you get it?How can property investment be used to improve work life balance and make it easier to retire comfortably?When should you plan to retire, and how can you retire early (FIRE)?The wonderful Victoria Hall joined me again on the podcast for our mini series on life and legacy - beyond the normal property and investment focus.Victoria is a Leadership Consultant at YSC whose career has ranged from Operational Due Diligence at...2022-02-0330 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastShould, would, could…Have kids? with Victoria Hall, leadership consultant at YSC and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhy are so many people now questioning the traditional idea of having children?What’s the investment case for starting a family - the costs, benefits and alternatives?When and how should, could or would you get started, if it’s something you want to do?The wonderful Victoria Hall joined me again on the podcast for our mini series on life and legacy - beyond the normal property and investment focus.Victoria is a Leadership Consultant at @YSC whose career has ranged from Operational Due...2022-01-2025 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastShould, would, could…Get married? with Victoria Hall, leadership consultant at YSC and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhy are so many people now questioning the traditional idea of getting married, buying a house and having children, and are they right?How much should you spend on a wedding, and what’s the opportunity cost?Is marriage really forever? What are the financial and emotional realities?The wonderful Victoria Hall joined me again on the podcast for our mini series on life and legacy - beyond the normal property and investment focus.Victoria is a Leadership Consultant at YSC whose career has ranged fr...2022-01-0622 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastLife-threatening illnesses and major life changes with Victoria Hall, leadership consultant at YSC and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textHow does a life-threatening illness like cancer affect your ability to live and your legacy?How do you cope with major life changes that totally redefine your day to day, and your future?Not exactly Christmassy questions, but important!So proud of the wonderful Victoria Hall for sharing her perspectives on these important questions and more on our Christmas episode - the first in a mini series on the non-financial aspects of life and legacy that are so important to us all.Victoria is a...2021-12-2322 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow energy efficiency affects property prices with University of Cambridge Professor Franz Fuerst and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had the honour of chatting to leading green real estate economics expert, University of Cambridge Professor Franz Fuerst about the price of climate change.We covered his fascinating research and topics such as: The house price impact of a low EPC rating Whether climate risk actually affects property prices Property as the biggest source of carbon emissionsResourceshttps://www.landecon.cam.ac.uk/directory/dr-franz-fuersthttps://annaclareharper.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/annaclareharper/https://spi.capital2021-12-0927 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastStepping Up... FTI Consulting and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had the pleasure of chatting to FTI Consulting’s Rob Mindell and Giles Barrie about the property market and having a social conscience in real estate for their podcast on starting up, scaling up and stepping up.Strange for me being on the other side of the interview for a change, but great fun and they asked excellent questions, so here it is!Resources: https://www.fticonsulting.com/emeahttps://audioboom.com/channels/5054612https://annaclareharper.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in...2021-11-2519 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastFear and Greed with Damien Fogg, CIO at residential consultancy SPI Capital, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textFear and greed drive prices across asset classes - from crypto to housing.So how are these primal emotions affecting UK property prices?In the latest podcast we covered topics such as: How fear and greed at scale drive average property prices Price vs value in an emotionally-driven market How basic emotions can make or break a deal What situations it makes sense to listen to fear (e.g. FOMO) and greed in, and whyhttps://www.annaclareharper.comhttps://www.linkedin...2021-11-1117 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastBook Launch Special! Building a Legacy with Damien Fogg, CIO at residential consultancy SPI Capital, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textToday’s the day! What day? 99p book launch day!If you’re thinking about growing a property portfolio for the future or to pass on to your children, get your copy now because, did I mention, it’s just 99p (absolute steal) for today only…So, this week’s top tip is to do that, and leave a review, and let us know you’ve left a review by emailing book@spi.capital as we’re giving 3 x the amount you paid, to Jimmy’s in Cambridge - a brilliant home...2021-10-2821 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastBuild to Rent with Alexandra Notay, Placemaking & Investment Director at PfP Capital, fund manager for one the largest property management and regeneration companies in the UK, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textDelighted to chat with Alexandra Notay, internationally recognised expert on Build to Rent, placemaking and sustainable urban development and Placemaking & Investment Director at PfP Capital, fund manager for one the largest property management and regeneration companies in the UK.Alex has published and edited over 30 books and reports on real estate, been recognised as one of BISNOW’s women leading real estate, and has 7 non-exec roles at leading real estate organisations.We covered: What Build to Rent is, and why major pension funds find it so attractive What inv...2021-10-1433 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow to identify your next deal with Damien Fogg, CIO at residential consultancy SPI Capital, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textFinding the right properties is key if you want to grow a property portfolio.The latest podcast episode shares some highlights from our upcoming book and real life stories on how to identify your next deal…Damien Fogg (SPI Capital’s CIO, a chartered Building Surveyor and Financial Advisor, former Letting Agent and Mortgage Broker) and I focus on where to go to find the properties you’re looking for, sharing some tips from the book and some extra real life stories that could not be printed.Highli...2021-09-3021 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastBuilding a Legacy with Damien Fogg, CIO at residential consultancy SPI Capital, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIf you’re thinking about building a legacy to hand on to your children, this episode is for you!We shared some of the most useful snippets from the book we’re publishing in October, Building a Legacy, which is all about creating, growing and improving a profitable, socially conscious legacy. Highlights include: Top tips to get set up for success and due diligence deals you’re looking at Common, expensive and time-wasting mistakes to avoid What it means to build a profitable, socially conscious property legacyResources:http...2021-09-1615 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProperty investing for lawyers (and other professionals!) With Ruth McCarthy, Director at SPI Capital and former Head of Real Estate at JMW, a Top 100 National Law Firm and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textSomething specific this week on the podcast...Let me know if it’s useful for you!We work with so many lawyers and investment professionals who spend all day helping their clients make money, and struggle to invest for themselves.So I wanted to share something that dealt with the issues - specifically those facing lawyers, but almost everything covered applies across professions.The lovely Ruth McCarthy, Director at SPI Capital and former Head of Real Estate at Top 100 National Law firm JMW shared her experience - bo...2021-09-0222 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat can property learn from tech? With Roger Thornton, Director of Applications at Raspberry Pi, Damien Fogg, CIO at SPI Capital, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI really enjoyed chatting with Roger Thornton, Director of Applications at Raspberry Pi, maker of the UK’s best-selling computer and Damien Fogg, CIO at residential consultancy SPI Capital on: What can the property sector learn from tech? How can hardware solve real estate problems? Will the masses really return to working in offices?Highlights include: Understanding margin structure - and collaborative engineering to reduce build costs in real estate, as in hardware manufacturing Applying Agile software development approaches in construction projects to improve efficiency Integrating smart technologies to optimise bu...2021-08-1915 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastIs property still a good way to diversify? with Rebekah Tobias, Head of Business Development at Family Office Marcol and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIt makes sense not to put all your money in one investment.Traditionally, many investors have chosen residential property as their ‘diversifier’.But is property still a good way to diversify, when prices are high?I spoke to Rebekah Tobias, Head of Business Development at Family Office Marcol - who invest across Real Estate and Private Equity - about this.Key topics include:What is diversification and why is it important right now?How can you diversify your portfolio?Does...2021-08-0526 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastNightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords and New Rules with Paul Shamplina, TV star and Founder of Landlord Action and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had the honour of interviewing the host of much-loved TV show, Nightmare Tenants, Slum Landlords, Founder of Landlord Action and policy advisor Paul Shaplina for the podcast.We covered the truth about evictions, and the MASSIVE policy changes that are coming for landlords.Resources:Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulshamplina/Guest Websites:www.landlordaction.co.ukwww.hamiltonfraser.co.ukwww.paulshamplina.tvHost LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaclareharper/Host W...2021-07-2221 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHas the UK housing market gone mad? With Heath Thomas, Head of Real Estate Finance at Natwest and RBS for the North/North West and Anna Clare Harper, CEO, SPI CapitalSend us a textDespite a global pandemic and extraordinary unemployment figures, house prices in the UK have reached record highs.This episode of the podcast shares a replay from a recent event where I discussed the current market with Heath Thomas, Head of Real Estate Finance at Natwest and RBS for the North/North West.Key topics included: What’s happening in the housing market right now? What next for the housing market? What it all means for investors looking for opportunities in the current marketEnjoy!...2021-07-0831 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastSustainable residential property investing with Anna Clare Harper, CEO, SPI CapitalSend us a textThe UK’s legally binding commitment to achieve net carbon zero by 2050 means that now, sustainability is no longer a ‘nice to have’. Our legal obligation is showing up in the form of new rules, regulations and best practices affecting all sectors that contribute to emissions.40% of UK emissions come from households, which makes the chance of more regulations and policies around the environmental performance of residential property more likely than not.These new regulations will affect investment risks, opportunities, value and performance.Listen in to hear more a...2021-06-2412 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow institutions see the UK Private Rental Sector with Paddy Allen, Head of Operational Capital Markets at leading international property business, Colliers and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textThere’s a huge amount of capital coming into the ‘beds’ sector from major global institutions, catalysed further by Covid-19.But there are still huge differences between how private individuals approach investing vs how big funds approach it.I had the chance to quiz Paddy Allen, Head of Operational Capital Markets at leading international property business, Colliers, on topics including: The strategic outlook for operators and investors in UK real estate - from PRS to hotels The biggest opportunities and risks in the rental sector The most e...2021-06-1026 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWomen and Wealth with Elspeth Kinder (Head of Family Law, JMW), Ann-Marie Atkins (Managing Partner, Tilney), Ruth McCarthy (Managing Director, SPI Capital) and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textThere are so many misunderstandings about women and wealth.Whether you care about this because you want to reduce inequalities of opportunity for yourself or the women you care about, or because you work in this sector and know you need to understand the other half of the population better, there is a huge opportunity for change.I had the chance to quiz three brilliant women in investment, finance and law on everything from practical advice around budgeting and risk, to common misconceptions such as: Pre-nups are just...2021-05-2750 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastPlanning for an Early Retirement with Ann-Marie Atkins, award-winning Financial Planner and Managing Partner at Tilney, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textThe idea of retiring early is, unsurprisingly, a popular one. But how do you do it?I was delighted to quiz Ann-Marie Atkins, award-winning Financial Planner and Managing Partner at Tilney on this topic.We covered: What kind of investments work, and how you can make them - including how to make the most of available tax reliefs, property and non-property investments Common mistakes people make, and how you can avoid them How much money you actually need to retire, or take ‘micro retirements’ throughout your caree...2021-05-1331 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastResidential Property Investing for International Investors with Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWe’ve had a huge spike in enquiries from international investors so far in 2021.But the interest isn’t new. UK property has attracted attention and capital from all over the world for many years.The trouble is, it’s very difficult for international investors to understand the key trends affecting the UK property market, before they invest.We had some great feedback from an event we hosted on Property Investing for International Investors over the next three years.So, here’s a replay, which includes...2021-04-2927 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhere to invest in a post-Covid property market? With Lucian Cook, Head of UK Residential Research at Savills and leading commentator and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI was delighted to have Lucian Cook, one of the UK property market’s leading commentators and Head of Residential Research at Savills, back on the podcast.We covered: Where prices and rents are rising, and where is best to invest in a post-Covid housing market The most important regulatory changes you need to know about in the coming years, before you buy an investment property How ‘brown discounts’ are affecting investor value, and the impact of sustainability on investor returns The next wave of institutional investment in UK...2021-04-1529 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProperty Investing for Entrepreneurs with Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWe’ve recently started working with some incredible entrepreneurs who have made money from their businesses, and want to protect and grow their wealth so that they can maintain their lifestyle into retirement and pass on a legacy to their children.Residential property is a great fit.The trouble is, most entrepreneurs don’t have spare time, and they don’t know enough to invest for themselves.We had some great feedback from an event we hosted on Property Investing for Entrepreneurs.So, here’s a replay...2021-04-0126 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastSustainable Real Estate Investment with Investment Banker turned Sustainable Investment Specialist, Author and Podcast Host JP Dallmann and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textHow can you invest sustainably in UK property?Investment Banker turned Sustainable Investment Specialist, Forbes Contributor on Sustainable Investment and Host of leading impact investment podcast, JP Dallmann, joined me to discuss how to invest profitably and sustainably in UK residential property.Highlights of this episode include: How to measure impact in a way that is accurate and commercially viable How to prioritise: should you care more about social impact or the environment? What we can learn from within and beyond the real estate sector to...2021-03-1838 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat’s next for the UK rental property market with Head of Research at Zoopla, Gráinne Gilmore and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhat’s changing in the UK rental property market??Zoopla’s Head of Research, Gráinne Gilmore, joined me to discuss what’s really happening in the UK Private Rental Sector.Gráinne was previously Head of Residential Research and Knight Frank, and an award-winning Economics Correspondent for The Times before her role at Zoopla.So, she’s brilliantly placed to help explain the fascinating and complicated dynamics that are affecting the UK rental market.Highlights of this episode include: What’s driving the entrenched ‘...2021-03-0417 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow Artificial Intelligence is transforming Private Rental Sector housing investment with Co-Founder of ground-breaking Investment Manager Immo Capital, Samantha Kempe and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textArtificial Intelligence is transforming how major global funds invest in one of the largest, most resilient asset types: Private Rental Sector housing.I had the privilege of finding out how - speaking to Samantha Kempe, Co-Founder and CIO of ground-breaking Investment Manager Immo Capital. Before this, Samantha cut her teeth managing portfolios at Blackstone, as well as working at PWC and Cushman and Wakefield, so she’s well-versed in both traditional and innovative investment management.Highlights of this episode include: How AI and data can be used to so...2021-02-1824 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow to reduce risk in a fast-changing market with Ruth McCarthy, MD of SPI Capital and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textHow to reduce risk in a fast-changing marketI had a great chat with Ruth McCarthy, MD of SPI Capital and former Head of Real Estate at top 100 National Law firm, JMW.Highlights include: How to protect your rights and reduce risk through legals How to avoid common investor mistakes Balancing legal and commercial requirements to get quality deals doneResourcesWebsite spi.capital & annaclareharper.comGuest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ruthmccarthy/Host LinkedIn: https://www...2021-02-0419 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProperty market predictions for 2021 with Damien Fogg, CIO of SPI Capital and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhat will happen to the property market in 2021?I had a great chat with Damien Fogg MRICS - a surveyor, former Financial Advisor, investor, and Chief Investment Officer of residential property asset manager SPI Capital.We shared 12 predictions for the UK housing market in 2021.Highlights include: Key economic, political and policy drivers The impact of low interest rates Rising institutional investment, the emergence of the ‘corporate landlord’ and demand for end to end portfolio building The growing importance of social responsibility, as well as h...2021-01-2120 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow to avoid costly investment mistakes in 2021? With Damien Fogg, CIO of SPI Capital and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textHow to avoid costly investment mistakes in 2021?I had a great chat with Damien Fogg MRICS - a surveyor, former Financial Advisor, investor, and Chief Investment Officer of residential property asset manager SPI Capital.We discussed 8 of the most common, costly mistakes investors make growing their portfolio, and how you can avoid them in 2021.Highlights include: Emotional decision-making, paralysis by analysis and diving in Over-reliance on media predictions, and mistaking price for value Misunderstanding market timing and speculation Under-estimating the...2021-01-0721 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastInvesting in residential property at scale with Cedric Bucher, CEO of leading specialist fund manager Hearthstone, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textInvesting in residential property at scaleI was delighted to speak to Cedric Bucher, CEO of Hearthstone Investments, which is the UK’s first specialist residential property fund manager - with Assets under Management of over £280m.They are leading the way in the Private Rental Sector, giving institutional investors access to mainstream family housing and low-rise apartment blocks.Prior to this, Cedric has a brilliant career with leading global consultants, banks and asset managers. So he’s well versed in the financial aspects of property investing, as we...2020-12-2421 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastMaking a Splash! Developing throughout downturns with Tom Bloxham MBE, urban regeneration pioneer, Chairman and Founder of award-winning Urban Splash, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI'm very excited to share my conversation with Tom Bloxham MBE, one of the best known and loved personalities in the real estate industry and a pioneer of urban regeneration.Tom is the chairman and founder of leading regeneration company Urban Splash, which has received 419 (!) awards to date for architecture, design and business success.He has a reputation as ‘the property developer who makes property development socially acceptable’, and the best accolade I’ve heard to date: a portrait in the National Portrait Gallery.Highlights of our conver...2020-12-1026 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat’s changing in the UK rental market with Head of Research at Zoopla, Gráinne Gilmore and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhat’s changing in the UK rental market?Zoopla’s Head of Research, Gráinne Gilmore, joined me to discuss what’s really happening in the UK Private Rental Sector.Gráinne was previously Head of Residential Research at Knight Frank, and an award-winning Economics Correspondent for The Times before her role at Zoopla.So, she’s brilliantly placed to help explain the fascinating and complicated dynamics that are affecting the UK rental market.Highlights of this episode include: What’s driving the entrenched ‘two-speed mark...2020-11-2616 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastMaking real estate assets liquid with Richard Croft, Co-Founder and Chairman of leading investment group, M7, David Delaney, CEO of property stock exchange IPSX, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textTransparency, liquidity, and listed real estateI had a fascinating discussion with Richard Croft, Co-Founder and Chairman of leading investment group, M7 and David Delaney, CEO of new property stock exchange IPSX about their first single real estate asset Initial Public Offering (IPO).Richard and David have exceptional credentials in real estate and finance, with years of experience, and billions of transactions under their belts. Richard is the Executive Chairman and co-founder of the M7 Real Estate group, and has been involved in over €8 billion of transactions across the UK...2020-11-1230 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastDamien Fogg, CIO and Anna Clare Harper, CEO of SPI Capital on starting an investment business in a recessionSend us a textWould you start an investment business in a recession?I would, and have.I wanted to share a bit more about why. So in this episode of the podcast, Damien Fogg, CIO and I explain what we’re doing at SPI Capital and why.Highlights include: The case for change, in life and business, post-lockdown (#1) The business and social case for investing in built residential assets worth 2020-10-2916 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastUsing data analytics to optimise building management with Ryan Collier, Operations Director at leading residential block manager, Pod, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIt’s not glamorous.Yet building management has the potential to make or break both investor returns and customer satisfaction.Historically, it’s been rare for investors to know (and perhaps, to care) how their building can be managed better. Until now.Ryan Collier has specialised in the management of large and complex buildings for 10 years, and has overseen tens of thousands of homes.He and his team at leading specialist block managers, Pod Management, provide residential estate and block management services - and comprehensive data...2020-10-0129 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastPrivate Equity and Family Office real estate investment myths with Rebekah Tobias, leading investment specialist & Head of Business Development at investment house, Marcol, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textThe flight-to-safety, dumb money and real estateI had a great chat about Family Office, Private Equity and Institutional Investment in real estate in the current environment with Rebekah Tobias, leading investment specialist and Head of Business Development at Private Equity firm, Marcol.Rebekah’s experience includes Partner and Director roles at Marcol, M7 and Cushman & Wakefield, spanning international capital markets through to operations-led asset management. So she is well-placed to comment, and is brilliant at explaining the complex real estate investment world.Highlights of this episode in...2020-09-1735 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat’s really happening in the UK rental market? With Zoopla’s Head of Research Gráinne Gilmore and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textI had the pleasure of interviewing Gráinne Gilmore, Head of Research at Zoopla, following the release of their UK Rental Market Report to discuss what’s really happening in the UK rental market.Previously an award-winning financial and economics journalist at The Times newspaper in London, and Head of Residential Research at Knight Frank, Gráinne is often interviewed by the media on the UK housing market, appearing on BBC Radio 4, Sky news, BBC Breakfast, and the BBC World Service.So, she’s brilliantly placed to help explain the fa...2020-08-2016 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProptech myths with Toby Wilde, Founder of Oparo, one of the first algorithm-driven real estate investment companies in the UKSend us a textIn this episode, Toby Wilde and Anna Clare Harper discuss the common myths around how and whether proptech can solve housing market problems. Toby shared his controversial opinions on the major issues in the industry including the greenbelt, Airbnb and P2P lending.Toby is a multi-time Proptech Founder whose experience includes scaling Sprift, currently the fastest growing property data resource for Estate Agents, Landlords, Developers & Solicitors, as well as in Estate Agency and in his family’s property development business.Highlights includes: What problems can proptech (and sp...2020-07-2333 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow to value residential property, with ‘material uncertainty’ - Gavriel Merkado, CEO and Founder of leading residential property data and analytics company REalyse, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Gavriel Merkado, CEO and Founder of leading residential property data and analytics company REalyse and Anna Clare Harper discuss the ‘myth’ of ‘material uncertainty’. What material uncertainty actually means, what the implications are for investors trying to assess a deal, and the real reason banks are cautious to lend when a valuation contains this clause.A former quantitative analyst and expert in real estate data analytics, Gavriel shares his perspective on material uncertainty and whether there is a viable alternative right now in valuations. We also touched on why he b...2020-07-0923 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProperty Finance myths Part #2: Alternative Finance myths, with Michael Bristow, Co-Founder and CEO of Crowdproperty, the UK’s leading property peer-to-peer lending platform, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Mike Bristow, Founder of the UK’s leading property peer-to-peer (P2P) lending platform, Crowdproperty, and Anna Clare Harper discuss why high rates don’t always mean high risk when it comes to property lending, and how peer-to-peer (P2P) is disrupting traditional bank finance.As a registered chartered accountant, Mike also sits on the investment committee of proptech venture capital business Property Innovation Labs (Pi Labs), and is an angel investor in leading proptech and fintech businesses.Highlights of the episode include: How tech is a...2020-06-2542 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastMyths about property finance: how bridging lenders are becoming less shark, and more heart with Guy Harrington, Founder of Glenhawk and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Guy Harrington, Founder of Glenhawk, one of the fastest growing property lenders in the UK, dispels common myths and misconceptions around short term ‘bridging’ property finance. Glenhawk has lent over £115m, secured £160m finance from JP Morgan, and is on track for its target £500m loan portfolio.Highlights of this episode include: What’s really happening to lender appetite, through Coronavirus What developers and investors can learn from how lenders view risk How lenders are evolving from ‘shark’ to ‘heart’, becoming consumer-focused How to avoid the ‘loan t...2020-06-1137 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow to hire top talent in real estate and avoid common hiring mistakes that proptech and property startups make with Louisa Dickins, leading global proptech recruiter, and Anna Clare Harper.Send us a textI had the chance to discuss the truth about hiring in real estate with Louisa Dickens, co-founder of LMRE, a leading global proptech recruitment business helping startups scale and corporates find new talent.As a UK PropTech Association board member, Louisa is well-placed to understand what both proptech businesses and candidates expect from each other during the recruitment process and the common hiring mistakes that proptech startups and corporates make.Highlights of this episode include: What employees really want, and what businesses look for in candidates How...2020-05-2827 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat works and what doesn't in a complex property market? Part 2. Paperback book launch panel with top planning lawyer Martha Grekos & Editor of leading property investor magazine, Richard BowserSend us a text*What works and what doesn't in this complex UK residential property market? Part #2*Panel discussion with one of the UK’s top planning lawyers, Martha Grekos, and Editor of the leading property investor magazine, Property Investor News, Richard Bowser, marking the paperback launch of Anna Clare Harper's book, Strategic Property Investing: What works and what doesn’t in a complex UK residential property market bit.ly/strategicpropertyinvestingHighlights include: ‘Icarus syndrome’ - and the trouble with crowd-funding and over-leverage in property development Top tips for riding a challeng...2020-05-1426 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastIs data the most valuable commodity for UK real estate investors? With Gavriel Merkado, CEO and founder of leading proptech disruptor, REalyse, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textData has been described as more valuable than oil. But not all data is created equally. Huge risks arise if you don’t have the right data, and you don’t use it correctly in property investment.So how do you get it right, at a time when data collection seems topical, controversial and indeed essential for modern businesses?Gavriel Merkado, CEO and Founder of REalyse, leading UK real estate data and proptech disruptor, joins Anna Clare Harper to discuss the value of data - including how successful investors are...2020-04-1623 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow coronavirus affects ordinary property investors and what to do about it, with Ranjan Bhattacharya, Real Estate Investor, Business Owner and Host of the UK’s #1 property meet, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Ranjan Bhattacharya and Anna Clare Harper weigh up the challenges and opportunities for investors following the impact of coronavirus on the property market, and discuss how to survive both long- and short-term by shoring up your position, prioritising cashflow and knowing the right strategies to deploy.Property entrepreneur and investor Ranjan is a well-known personality in the landlord community as the host of ‘the UK’s #1 property meet’, the Baker Street Property Meet, and a popular YouTube channel.Highlights of this episode include: How the invest...2020-04-0237 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastCan Socially Responsible Property Investing solve the UK housing crisis? With Anna Clare Harper, Co-Founder of Anglo Residential, Property Investor and StrategistSend us a textIn this episode, Property Investor and Strategist Anna Clare Harper explores how the housing crisis is more than just a housing problem, and why headline grabbing policies win votes but generally prove expensive and unsuccessful.Anna recently delivered her first TEDx talk in which she was privileged to explore the question ‘Can Socially Responsible Investing solve the UK housing crisis?'.Since studying Land Economy at Cambridge University, the social and financial consequences of investing have influenced her career. She’s been privileged to be involved with £100m's worth of de...2020-03-1915 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastSimon Hughes, leading real estate innovation consultant, discusses being agile and innovative in property with Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Simon Hughes, Co-Founder of leading real estate innovation consultant, Jell Consulting and thought leadership and research business Liquid Real Estate Innovation, discusses shaping the future of real estate through innovation with Anna Clare Harper.Simon has an extensive track record of working with board level executives at publicly-listed and private equity-backed companies. He explains how property companies often falsely believe innovation is driven by technology, and how to really unlock fresh ideas and discover potential solutions in a sector known for being slow to adapt to change.2020-03-0514 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastPropTech Venture Capital Founder Taylor Wescoatt discusses investing in early stage PropTech startups with Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Taylor Wescoatt, Founder of leading PropTech venture capital firm Concrete and Anna Clare Harper discuss analysing risk and reward, what venture capitalists look for, and the importance of understanding how to solve customer problems through new PropTech ventures.Taylor brings his User Experience (UX) and Product Development experience with major brands such as eBay and Time Out to tackle real estate industry challenges and make the most of its opportunities.Highlights of this episode include: What next for real estate and PropTech? What venture...2020-02-2022 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastValue investing specialist, author and acclaimed researcher Mallika Paulraj and Anna Clare Harper discuss what real estate investors need to know to echo Warren Buffet’s successSend us a textValue investing specialist, author and acclaimed researcher Mallika Paulraj and Anna Clare Harper discuss how the school of thought so commonly associated with Benjamin Graham, then Warren Buffet, Charlie Munger et al really applies in the property world. Mallika shares top tips from a global investment and research career, from checklists to use before you invest, to understanding brain chemistry so that you can avoid common mistakes.A graduate and researcher from Stanford University and the London School of Economics, Mallika began her career in Silicon Valley as a programmer before...2020-02-0625 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastHow family offices, private equity firms, high net worth investors & institutions like pension funds really invest in real estate, with leading investment specialist Rebekah Tobias & Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, leading investment specialist Rebekah Tobias and Anna Clare Harper discuss risk, reward, diversity and how capital is really allocated by financial institutions including high net worth investors, private equity houses, family offices and pension funds.Formerly a Partner at global real estate consultants Cushman & Wakefield, an Investment Director at CBRE and a Director at leading Real Estate Investor & Asset Manager M7, Rebekah is now Business Development Director for international investment house, MARCOL. Her real estate investment expertise spans investment advisory, valuations, capital raising and investor relations working with...2020-01-2324 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastBest-selling Author, Global Martial Arts Entrepreneur and Property Developer Sebastian Bates joins Anna Clare Harper to discuss building a lifestyle business and sources of entrepreneurial inspirationSend us a textIn this episode, Sebastian Bates joins Anna Clare Harper to discuss how to build systems and processes to build your lifestyle business and get into a mode of constant inspiration instead of solving small problems.Dubai-based martial arts entrepreneur Sebastian is the founder of the Global Warrior Academy with over 2000 students across two continents. Through developing lean systems and processes he has built a team of 30 around the world to help him run the Academy and other martial arts businesses together with Holger Danske, his property development company.Auditing...2020-01-0935 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastMulti-time Proptech Founder Toby Wilde joins Anna Clare Harper to discuss using data and algorithmic decision-making to access better property investment opportunitiesSend us a textIn this episode, Toby Wilde and Anna Clare Harper discuss how property investors can use data and algorithmic decision-making to identify better opportunities, safeguard against risk and drive efficiency.Toby is a multi-time Proptech Founder whose experience includes scaling Sprift, currently the fastest growing property data resource for Estate Agents, Landlords, Developers & Solicitors, as well as in Estate Agency and in his family’s property development business.Highlights of this episode includes: Using data, one of the most valuable resources in property, to make better investment decisions Ho...2019-12-2629 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastPaul Dunn, globally-renowned social impact entrepreneur, Founder of B1G1 & 4x TEDx speaker joins Anna Clare Harper to discuss creating a positive impact & lasting legacy through investment & businessSend us a textIn this episode, Paul Dunn joins Anna Clare Harper to discuss creating a positive impact and lasting legacy by giving back as part of business - in property and beyond. This is especially important in the property sector, which has built a reputation for not quite ‘getting’ the social responsibility agenda!Paul is an award-winning global social entrepreneur, 4x TEDx speaker & Founder of B1G1 (which stands for ‘Buy 1, Give 1’). He was also one of Hewlett Packard’s first 10 team members in Australia, has successfully built and exited his own computer businesses...2019-12-1226 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastSmart buildings for better profits, health and environment with proptech disruptor Metrikus’ CEO Gary Cottle, COO Michael Grant and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper is joined by leading smart building technology business Metrikus' CEO Gary Cottle (previously a global MD / Chairman at Nomura / RBS) and COO Michael Grant to discuss how the digitisation of buildings can increase well-being and transform profits for property investors.The episode includes how real-time data capture can enable smarter decisions, making buildings and employees more efficient, profitable, healthy and better for the environment.Episode highlights include: Why a busy, stuffy room is worse for productivity than drinking 2 pints of beer...2019-11-2825 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastArtificial Intelligence, data-driven decisions and proptech shaking up mortgage lending with Proportunity Co-Founder Vadim Toader and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper and Vadim Toader discuss Artificial Intelligence as a tool for forecasting house price growth and making better lending decisions.Vadim is an Entrepreneur First alumnus and Forbes ‘30 under 30’ listed Proptech Founder with a first-class Masters degree from Oxford in Engineering, Economics and Management.He co-founded the Savills-backed startup and FCA-authorised lender Proportunity, which uses machine learning as a way to predict property price rises and optimise lending decisions. The business was recently voted the ‘UK’s best proptech startup’ by Techworld.Episode hig...2019-11-1432 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastEd Mead FRICS, co-founder of Viewber, veteran agent and Non-Executive Director of Douglas & Gordon and The Property Ombudsman discusses on-demand property viewings disrupting estate agencySend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper and Ed Mead FRICS discuss how traditional estate agency needs to evolve, and how property viewing service Viewber is shaking up the process of buying, selling and letting residential property through what has been described as ‘the Uber of property viewings’.Ed is a high-profile former London agent with 37 years’ experience. He is also a Non-Executive Director of London estate agent Douglas & Gordon and The Property Ombudsman. He has built a profile as one of the industry’s leading commentators, from two BBC TV series to writi...2019-10-3122 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProptech innovation with Angelica Krystle Donati, Proptech Founder, Venture Capital Investor, CEO and Forbes Commentator and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textWhy is ‘proptech’ hitting the headlines?Angelica Donati, a Proptech Venture Capital investor, regular Forbes contributor and CEO of International development company Donati Immobiliare Group discusses how the property sector is changing through technology and innovation with Anna Clare Harper.The episode includes why innovation and change is critical for the survival of businesses in property and construction in this new, consumer-focused world. It touches on some of the most exciting areas of innovation in the real estate sector right now, and the importance of technology as a problem solv...2019-10-1737 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastLeading branding expert Steve Edge discusses the importance of inspiration and innovation vs information in property with Anna Clare HarperSend us a textSeries three continues with one of the world's leading brand experts, design agency founder and TEDx speaker Steve Edge, whose clients range from Cartier to the UK's leading Build to Rent operators. Steve joins Anna Clare Harper to discuss innovative branding for people and places. He shares his tips for finding your unique brand strategy and explains how the power of branding can add value to your business in the current property market.With a fascination for the arts from a young age, Steve started his career in a top London...2019-10-0325 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProperty specialist and International Investor John Corey talks Value, Strategy and Innovation with Anna Clare HarperSend us a textKicked off Series 3 of The Return with Property Fortress founder, former computer scientist, Host of the London Real Estate Meetup, NED & International Investor John Corey. We discussed the importance of strategy, value and innovation - the theme of Series 3 - in this complex environment.Massachusetts-born John once worked for Steve Jobs at NeXT in Silicon Valley, where he made his first foray into property investment. Fast forward a few years and now with a property portfolio spanning from Hawaii to London, John founded property resource platform Property Fortress and b...2019-09-1942 min
The Return: Property & Investment Podcast5 questions to ask, before you invest in UK residential property - Anna Clare HarperSend us a textUK residential property remains one of the most attractive investments available to many investors, seeking long term returns, without too much hassle. But the market has changed thanks to political, economic, social, technological and legal and regulatory shifts. Right now, investors of all scales are facing the prospect of no, low or negative real returns, uncertainty about the future, and the difficulty of accessing opportunities that suit their needs, resources and the market context.The truth is, residential property is not as 'easy' as it once was: investors need to understand...2019-09-0509 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastStrategic Property Investing: Book Preview - Anna Clare HarperSend us a textA sneak preview of Anna’s upcoming book, Strategic Property Investing. This episode shares why, how and who it’s for (and, who I am). For potential investors across the world, investing in UK property is not only right of passage, but a signifier and determinant of success. For more than 20 years, it has outperformed the alternatives available to many. And It has been seen as one of the best investments available, in particular for busy private investors looking to grow wealth, building a more secure financial future, without sacrif...2019-08-2210 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastThree (low cost, simple) ways innovation can help to reduce inequalities in the UK property market - Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIt’s no secret the UK housing market has major imbalances and inequalities - for aspiring investors and tenants alike. With little, marginal changes, innovation and technology have the potential to help open up aspects of the market, and so contribute to reducing a long-standing issue: inequality of opportunities. In another ‘between series’ of the podcast, I shared 3 ways innovation can help to reduce inequalities of opportunity in the residential property market - each on a very small scale, but with huge potential reach. This episode highlights just a few of the many free and...2019-08-0811 min
The Return: Property & Investment Podcast3 things you need to know about wealth preservation in an uncertain market - Anna Clare Harper, Property Fund Co-Founder and Property StrategistSend us a textAs a bonus episode between series 2 and 3, Anna shares an article that she recently wrote for leading Small- and Medium-sized property investor magazine, Property Investor News (PIN), about preserving wealth in an uncertain market. Anna shares 3 reasons why wealth preservation strategies have become more desirable for investors of all sizes, by minimising risk and maximising value in an uncertain market. The key themes include: Why a slow and steady approach can be a great choice How risks have increased in property investment over the past few years What in...2019-07-2512 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastChanges and Challenges - Series 2 Round-Up with Anna Clare Harper, Real Estate Investment Strategist, Investor, Entrepreneur and Podcast Host.Send us a textIn this episode, Anna reviews Series 2 of The Return podcast and considers the themes that have been covered on the show. A tidal wave of changes and challenges across the Political, Economic, Social, Technological and Legal landscape has hit small and medium residential property investors hard. Anna talks about how she and many other property businesses and investors have changed their approaches in recent times to adapt to the opportunities that are available now. Anna also gives a sneak peek at what’s coming up in Series 3. The key...2019-07-1109 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastKnowing The Market – Anna Clare Harper talks to Lucian Cook, Head of UK Residential Research at Savills and one of the country’s most respected UK housing market commentators.Send us a textIn this episode, Anna and Lucian discuss how the Prime and Mainstream UK residential markets have been affected by recent change and uncertainty. They look at the data Savills uses to gain market insight and what the future holds for property investors. Lucian also shares some great advice for private investors and provides context to current fragile market sentiment.Highlights include: How Prime and Mainstream residential market drivers differ What house prices will look like over the next five years Why private investors must understand competition from institutions How Brexit...2019-06-2724 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastLeading the Crowd – Mike Bristow, CEO and Co-Founder of CrowdProperty, the UK’s leading peer-to-peer (P2P) property lender talks to Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Anna and Mike discuss how P2P lending is supporting small and medium-sized developers to meet the UK’s housing needs. Mike shares his thoughts on how quality data plus human expertise can inform better decision making by lenders and explains why Alternative Finance will simply become mainstream finance over the next few years.Highlights include: How peer-to-peer lending solves both lender and borrower problems Best practice approaches to balancing risk and reward How and why P2P for property will continue to grow over the coming years...2019-06-1319 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastDevelopment for Small Investors – Anna Clare Harper talks to Nicole Bremner, Property Developer, Investor and Founder of East Eight and London Central DevelopmentsSend us a textIn this episode, Anna and Nicole discuss the changing face of development for small and medium-sized property investors. Nicole gives some great advice for property investors thinking about going into development and shares why she has diversified her investments into sectors other than property in recent years.Highlights include: How Nicole started out in property development Why development has become a very risky strategy in recent years What small developers need to know to sleep well at nightResources:LI: Nicole B...2019-05-3020 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastInvesting in the future of construction - Apprenticeships with Paul Ruddick and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper finds out about construction apprenticeships in London with Paul Ruddick, Co-founder of K10, London’s largest construction-specific Apprenticeship Training Programme (ATA). Anna and Paul are joined by Peter Bannister, Senior Apprenticeship Programme Manager and George, an apprentice Site Manager on the scheme. Anna and Paul discuss why apprenticeships are vital to address the current construction skills crisis, which is a factor limiting the supply of new buildings. Peter explains how K10’s approach offers a win/win solution for contractors and apprentices and George outlines how th...2019-05-1628 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastThrough the Lender’s Lens - Anna Clare Harper talks to Ben Barbanel, Head of Debt Finance at OakNorth, a leading UK business challenger bank providing business and property loans to SMEsSend us a textIn this episode, Anna and Ben discuss OakNorth’s approach to lending and how they use a combination of data-driven and human decision-making processes. They look at how challenger banks are addressing the finance issues experienced by property investors and developers and why OakNorth’s loan book currently stands at £2bn and rising, with continuing strong demand. Ben also shares some great advice for beginner investors and explains why there’s plenty of reason for optimism in the face of uncertainty.Highlights include: Why property investors need to professionalise and learn t...2019-05-0217 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastWhat ordinary property investors can learn from institutions - Alexandra Thur, Founding Partner of Multi-Billion Dollar Real Estate Investment Businesses, and Anna Clare HarperSend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper finds out why institutional investors are increasingly investing in residential property and what small and medium sized investors and business owners can learn from their approach with Alexandra Thur, Director of Willow Isle Capital, Partner and Investment Director of Castelnau Estates and Founding Partner of two Multi-Billion Dollar Real Estate Investment Businesses.Anna and Alexandra examine who institutional investors are and how they differ from SME investors in some surprising ways. Alexandra gives a great overview of ground rent investment and the appeal of this...2019-03-2946 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastTackling Tax. Anna Clare Harper talks to Tony Gimple, Founder of the UK’s leading tax and estate planning consultants for landlordsSend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper discusses the impact - and opportunities - created by recent tax changes for property investors of all sizes with Tony Gimple, Founding Director of Less Tax 4 Landlords.Anna and Tony explore how tax changes have been used as an instrument to professionalise the UK property sector. They also cover how individual and institutional investors can still find great returns, by shifting to a long-term focus.Highlights include: How Section 24 is impacting landlords. Why being a passive landlord is no longer a viable...2019-03-1416 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastBeyond Beige – Anouska Tamony and Anna Clare Harper discuss getting better returns through interior designSend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper finds out how interior design can increase Return On Investment for developers, investors, in fact anyone selling or renting a property, with the Founder of Award-winning London Design Studio, Anouska Tamony Designs.Anna and Anouska explore why interior design is important, especially in a stagnating market. They also cover the importance of knowing your target market and where to concentrate your efforts for maximum impact if you have a limited budget. Anouska explains how involving a professional designer can help to speed up property sales and even...2019-02-2824 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastThe Perfect Fit – Modular construction with Anna Clare Harper and Paul RuddickSend us a textIn this episode, Anna Clare Harper discusses the benefits of modular construction with Paul Ruddick, MD of the UK’s leading modular construction design and build contractor, Reds10.Anna and Paul explore what modular construction is and how the technology can boost build quality, while reducing cost and build time. They also cover Paul’s passion for training young people to address the UK’s construction skills shortage and why modular construction is the perfect fit in a time of uncertainty and increased regulation.Highlights include: Modular co...2019-02-2828 min
The Return: Property & Investment PodcastProfits, problems and planning in the UK property market, with Anna Clare Harper and planning expert & property developer, Paul HiggsSend us a textIn this episode, Anna discusses the commercial reality in the property development space and the dynamics around the UK’s planning system with chartered planning and development surveyor and founder of an award-winning multi-million-pound development company, Paul Higgs.The episode covers the reality behind the UK’s planning system and the potential problems regarding its application, in theory, the opportunities planning opens for investors and property developers. It looks at modern methods of construction as a potential solution to the housing shortage in the UK, land banking and whether it truly exists, and g...2019-02-2823 min