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.
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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
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Provide excellent service
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Give honest advice
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Use our global network and expertise to provide suitable financing options to suit the individual needs of our clients
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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
CEO
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.
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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.
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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
STEVE POOLE
SALES DIRECTOR
With 12 years of experience in the financial services industry, and almost 20 years in the property world, I have honed my expertise in the mortgage and protection sector. My journey began as a Mortgage and Protection Specialist, where I discovered my passion for helping clients secure their financial futures (and finally understanding what all those acronyms meant). Over the years, I transitioned into leadership roles, managing a team in a large corporate bank and, for the past 5 years, serving as a manager and trainer for mortgage and protection advisers.
In my role as Sales Director, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a proven track record of success. My experience has equipped me with the skills to navigate the complexities of the mortgage industry, ensuring that my clients receive the best advice and solutions tailored to their unique needs. I've been known to turn mortgage jargon into plain English and make the process as painless as possible—well, as painless as anything involving paperwork can be.
Outside of my professional life, I am an avid motorbike enthusiast, enjoying the freedom and adventure that comes with touring. If you see a blur on the motorway, it’s probably me chasing my next adrenaline rush (or just a really good place to eat!). This passion for exploration and discovery mirrors my approach to my career—always seeking new opportunities for my team and challenges to grow and excel.
I am committed to leveraging my extensive background to lead my team effectively and continue delivering exceptional service to our clients. My dedication to excellence and my client-centric approach are the cornerstones of my professional philosophy, and I look forward to bringing these values to my role. If you need me and I'm not at my desk, I might be out on the open road, but rest assured, I'm always a phone call away.
+44 1935722922
DEVON LEAK
Executive Assistant to CEO
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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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
MEET THE TEAM
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.
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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.
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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
MAX HERNANDEZ
Specialist Finance 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.
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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!
+441935722925
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!
+441935722927
KATIE LAMKIN
Mortgage Consultant
Specialist in expat and foreign investor finance
With over three years of industry experience under my belt, my journey began at a local independent mortgage brokers where I drove headfirst into the world of mortgage administration. It was there that I learnt my skills and earned my stripes, obtaining the qualifications necessary to become a Mortgage Adviser.
Eager to broaden my horizons, I made the leap to a leading estate agency where I continued to flourish as a Mortgage Adviser, assisting clients with financial guidance and tailored mortgage solutions. My dedication to providing top-notch service and my ability to simplify the mortgage process quickly made me a trusted adviser among clients and colleagues alike.
Now I have my sights on a new adventure in the vibrant landscape of the UAE where I will be leveraging my expertise to assist international and expat clients from across the globe with their UK mortgage needs.
Beside all things mortgage related, outside of the office you’ll often find me hitting the gym for a workout session, enjoying quality time with friends or exploring new destinations, cultures and cuisines.
NICOLA GRAY
Operation Support Consultant
Completions management and processing of mortgage applications
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I worked as a mortgage underwriter for a number of years and underwrote cases for various lenders within the UK market.
I then took a career break to start a family and now my children are older, it felt like the ideal time to come back to an industry I love.
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I enjoy the process of assessing each individual case and my attention to detail ensures it is as smooth a process as possible for the client. I like that each case is unique and the feeling of satisfaction when I see a case through to completion.
My time outside of work is spent with my husband and 2 boys enjoying our various interests and hobbies.
I am a keen Formula One fan so try and watch as many races as I can and I enjoy catching up with friends over a cuppa and, of course, a slice of cake!
+44 1935 722 926
Karin Woodgate
Mortgage Consultant
Specialist in Expat and Foreign Investment and New Builds
Hi, I’m Karin, a mortgage consultant with 20 years of experience in the finance industry, specialising in the Expat and International market. I love helping people from all over the world navigate the ins and outs of buying property, whether it’s a new family home, a relocation, or an investment.
What really drives me is building genuine relationships with my clients and making the mortgage process feel simple, clear, and even a little exciting! I’m proud to be part of a company that’s passionate about helping others, with clients truly at the heart of everything we do.
Outside of work, I’m a proud mum to two wonderful daughters and a big fan of travel — a love that ties in perfectly with my passion for working with clients across the globe!