Episode 2: Developer Diaries with Ben Wilson Feat. Catrina Mcauliffe

In this, the final episode of the ‘Developer Diaries’ podcasts series, Ben talks about the various ‘tricks of trade’ he has learnt from refurbishing property over the last 20 years, including:  Three key traits required to build a multi-million pound property business The importance of balance when designing a space Capitalising on under-utilised space Legally exploiting the planning system to add significant value The art of negotiation What to do when things go wrong!  As well as all of the above, Ben also gives his latest thoughts on the market and where he sees it going over the next 6-12 months.

In this episode Ben is joined by Rick Hollingsworth, Senior Structured Finance Manager at Octane Capital. Together they discuss all things finance related, including:  how to borrow money as a first time developer, the difference between bridging and development finance, why cash isn’t always king and how to maximise your return on capital. Rick has worked in the finance industry for over two decades and brings a huge amount of experience to the conversation, shining a light on one of the most important parts  of the property development process. Rick can be reached via www.octanecapital.co.uk

In this episode Ben is joined by Rebecca Rinn, a Partner at Streathers LLP, who specialises in all things leasehold.Rebecca and Ben talk at length about lease extensions, types of tenure, collective enfranchisement, licence to alters and ways to monetise leases, along with much, much more!This episode is particularly informing and really goes into the detail on one of the most important aspects of residential property.

In this episode Ben is joined by Chris Johnson, Managing Director of Clarence Property Group. Together they discuss the best types of property portfolios to acquire, how to break them down to add real value and Chris’s advice on how to transition from property employee to highly successful property investor

In this episode Ben is joined by Catrina McAuliffe, interior design at Camerich.  Together they discuss all things design, including: current trends, adding value through design without breaking the bank, the importance of good lighting, tips when preparing properties to be sold and much more.As usual, Ben also gives his insight into the current property market, discuss the impact of interest rate rises and the recent turmoil with the short lived Truss government.

In this episode Ben looks at 'the basics' of property development: the tips and tricks he has learnt over the years and the specifics he looks for when deciding which properties to buy, where to look and how to create value.In the second half, Ben is joined by serial entrepreneur Steve Hayes, who not only built and sold his loans business for £120M in only six years, but went on to buy Wasps RFC, Wycombe Wanderers FC and now invests heavily in green technologies and property development, amongst other things.  Steve's no nonsense approach and sense of humour make for entertaining listening!