ABOUT US
We are passionate individuals that understand the lending market and clients needs when considering buying or refinancing a property. Combined we have over 65 years experience in the UK and international finance market.
Our Mortgage Consultants specialise in expat and foreign investor finance and have arranged mortgage finance for clients from over 20 different countries.
We live in a hectic world and trying to source a mortgage while juggling a busy schedule can seem daunting.
Here at International Property Finance Group our qualified mortgage consultants provide excellent service levels, peace of mind and give the best advice and recommendations to suit our client’s needs.
OUR MISSION
Listen to clients and understand their needs
Provide excellent service
Give honest advice
Use our global network and expertise to provide suitable financing options to suit the individual needs of our clients
Make the finance process smooth
OUR VISION
To be the guiding force behind our clients’ journey to financial prosperity, delivering innovative strategies and unwavering support.
DONNA MARIE SPENCER
Founder and Managing Partner
I moved to the Middle East at the beginning of 2014 following a successful career with Countrywide Mortgage Services. After a decade with the group and achieving a senior role, I decided to explore the International market which then led me to Complete Finance (the lending arm of IP Global). We developed lending products for new markets such as Japan and Germany and I also supported the global sales force of property specialists.
I pride myself on always looking for the solution – the ‘computer says no attitude’ was the main reason I left the UK. I have made it my mission to help Expats arrange finance in various countries which is often a difficult journey for them. My in-depth knowledge of the buy to let off-plan market is hard to challenge and I really enjoy working closely with clients. My team all have the same ethos, which is to always put the client first, have excellent communication and always offer superior products with best advice. Nothing gives me more pleasure than watching a client turn from a first-time buyer to a savvy investor.
I have recently relocated to Portugal to be nearer to my family. Portugal offers a much different skyline to Dubai but rolling hills and trees are just as beautiful.
In my spare time, I really enjoy music of all genres, meditation, exercise and catching up with friends for Dinner. I like to live my life by treating people with love and compassion – it can be tough out there, we just need to be nicer to each other.
+441935722920
DEVON LEAK
Executive Assistant to Founder and Managing Partner
After 4 years of working in the legal world of property and sitting exams for
Chartered Legal Executives, I knew then it was time for change. I was offered a huge opportunity with International Property Finance Limited to start my journey to become a Mortgage Consultant.
I started with International Property Finance Limited in February 2021 as an Operations Support Consultant. In September 2023, I was offered an opportunity I couldn’t turn down and I was promoted to Executive Assistant. Within my role I will be working closely with Donna our Founder and Managing Partner. I will be responsible for managing our company schedules, communicating with lenders and introducers, pipeline completions, company marketing and inhouse admin.
In 2019, I ran the London Marathon raising money for New Hope Animal Rescue, after no training leading up to the event, I finally finished in 5 hours 54 minutes and of course not forgetting the 5 seconds.
+441935722924
DARREN CROCKER
Executive Mortgage Consultant
Specialist in
expat, foreign investment and new build
I had 15 years in the hospitality industry, managing establishments for a local firm. I wanted to better myself and my family’s lives, so after buying my first home and having a bad experience with the mortgage broker. I decided to pay for myself to take the mortgage exams and change my career path.
I started working for Connells Mortgage services as a consultant and finished my 9-year career running the Bristol area region. Then moving over to Countrywide Mortgage Services (Largest Mortgage consultants in UK) Running a team of 25 broker, covering south midlands to Wales. Finishing my career with them after 12 years as Senior Executive consultant based in the southwest. I then had a choice to make and decided to move forward as you can’t move ahead staying in your comfort zone.
I have been working with international, expat and domestic clients at International Property Finance Group since Sept 2019 and I have not looked back. I use my 23-year knowledge and experience of placing my clients with the best options, allowing them to fulfil their dreams.
My passion after 23 years is still there, my belief that I will always do right by my clients is still there and my reviews reflect this.
Darren is a family man and has 3 daughters and 2 grandsons. If he has any spare time away from the family and work, he is an avid West Ham fan (for his sins).
+441935722921
EMMA HERNANDEZ
Senior Mortgage Consultant
Specialist in
domestic, expat and foreign investor lending, equity release and lifetime mortgages
I obtained my qualifications with distinctions in mortgage advice as a natural progression after many years investing in the UK market and operating as a landlord.
As well as remaining actively involved in my own investments and using this experience to help other investors, my client base is very diverse – so whether you are a first time buyer, moving home, investing in the buy to let market or looking to re-mortgage any of your existing properties, I provide impartial advice and make sure you get the best deal.
Additionally, I specialise in expat and international mortgages and am qualified and experienced with retirement and lifetime mortgages.
It is a fantastic privilege to get to know my clients and be involved in changes in my clients lives or helping them to realise their goals. I pride myself on providing quality advice and guidance throughout the mortgage process and advising at each step with a view to building a long-term relationship.
My spare time revolves around my family, enjoying nothing better than scuba diving with my partner and three sons when we can and trips on the motorbikes.
+441935722923
MEET THE TEAM
KARIN WOODGATE
Senior Mortgage Consultant
Specialist in
expat, foreign investment and new build
After over a decade of working at Management level at a High Street bank, I decided to challenge myself and begin my journey as a Mortgage Consultant. It didn’t disappoint- each day is different and each case is unique. Working at International Property Finance Group has opened my eyes to the opportunities that are available for clients and looking after their finances is what we do best.
My days are filled with a range of clients- Expats buying new-build properties, Foreign nationals buying family homes, British couples getting on the housing ladder… the list goes on. We have expertise in all areas, and I am proud to be able to offer guidance to whoever crosses my path.
Working in Finance doesn’t always have to involve a Tweed suit, a briefcase and a Parker Pen. I am a strong believer that you have to put yourselves in your client’s shoes to be able to advise on what is best for them. I like structure, I like organisation, I like problem solving (and to be honest, I wouldn’t say no to a nice Parker Pen ????)
When I am not working, I spend my time with my husband and 2 daughters. With a dash of karate, a sprinkle of swimming and a generous helping of horse-riding, there is never a dull moment! My busy days are fuelled with coffee and a slight obsession with Chocolate but I love to unwind with a nice dinner and gossip with my friends.
+441935722922
MAX HERNANDEZ
Mortgage Consultant
Specialist in
domestic, expat and foreign investor lending
commercial, developer and business loans
After completing formal education, I went straight into the world of work, completing my AAT qualifications and then beginning my career as an accountant with 12 successful SMEs simultaneously. This has given me an opportunity to have unique insight into the administration of businesses across the UK market very early on.
In 2021 I transitioned into the mortgage industry, stepping into a managerial role at International Property Finance Ltd. as the Operations Support Manager before taking the next step to Mortgage consultant after passing my CeMAP qualifications in 2022 specialising in Expat and Foreign National Buy to Lets and Residential’s as well as Commercial and Developer finance Globally.
In between all things mortgage related, my head can be found in a biography or watching Formula 1 or football. I take each chance to explore somewhere new, aiming visit every country at least once in my life. I am currently 27 down, a tonne more to go!
+441935826800
HELEN WOOD
Operation Support Manger
Completions management and processing of mortgage applications
After nearly 5 years working in estate agency, I knew it was time to work in an environment that would reward my attention to detail in client service and communication.
I have recently been promoted to Operations Support Manager that will allow me to build further relationships and work closely with our other Operations Support Consultant to ensure our great client service is continued.
Being in Operations Support at International Property Finance means doing just that and I love that every day is a new challenge. The feeling of finding a resolution to any obstacle and simply being the helping hand that our clients need during the mortgage process is unmatched. Communication and organisation are my forte!
Stepping away from the busy world of mortgages, I grew up in Australia and love to make trips back to see family and friends along with making new memories in new countries. My favourite thing to do is find the best of the local food spots and hidden beaches with the clearest waters. My weekends are spent on adventures with my dogs, cooking new things and when the weather allows it – paddle boarding – for as long as I can stand up!