Who are you and what does it say on your business card?

Jason Berry – Group Sales Director

What is ‘company name’ and what does it do?

Crystal Specialist Finance – The Company is an award-winning Specialist Finance distributor.

What services do you offer and in what ways do you work with landlords?

We are one of the UKs largest solution providers for Commercial Finance, Bridging Loans, Second Charge Loans, Development Finance and Specialist Residential & Buy to Let Mortgages.

What makes your product different and how does it benefit landlords?

We provide simple solutions to complex financial problems. Every enquiry received is reviewed on its own merits and we have a variety of products to suit all situations, often with exclusive or semi-exclusive terms. Landlords are taken through an enjoyable journey by our friendly staff who always offer a blend of urgency and subject matter expertise throughout.

What is your greatest achievement in your current role and what made it so special?

Helping guide the Crystal business through this Covid-19 crisis. I previously led the Lending function for a UK bank and was responsible for the sales channel during the financial crisis in 2008/09. This current experience has certainly allowed me to call upon competencies gained during that difficult time and I am extremely confident that well considered actions have been taken which best guarantee Crystal and its staff fully prosper in a recovering UK economy.

What is the most satisfying part of your job

Having fun with customers. Lasting relationships are built from trust which often extends beyond the initial business interaction.

What do you see as the biggest challenge facing landlords at the moment?

Non payment of rent is a huge risk currently. I’d urge landlords to be as sympathetic to their tenant/s affordability as possible. Flexibility shown now will be a positive differentiator and forge long lasting relationships.

What is your property prediction for the remainder of 2020?

Social distancing and the aftermath of Covid-19 will continue to have huge impact on the purchase market. This means the levels will plummet and forecasters now predict a reduction from just under 1.2m to around 700k purchase transactions by the year end. However, I expect house prices to only drop in value moderately at 3-5%. Professional investors and experienced landlords might have to research a little harder but there will still be excellent properties available which offer great returns in the long term.

Country house or city apartment?

Villa in Spain (Is that allowed?)

Trendy roof terrace or traditional English garden?

Trendy Roof Terrace

Would you rather be a free-moving tenant or settled owner occupier?

Owner occupier

What is your favourite room in your home?

With my unathletic frame it has to be the kitchen – I love good food

Homes under the Hammer or Location, Location, Location?

Location, Location, Location