The Property Planet

Adam Craggs is a Partner in RPC’s Tax Disputes Resolution team and an accredited mediator, advising on a wide range of contentious tax matters involving both direct and indirect taxes. With over 20 years of experience — including 16 at HMRC’s Solicitor’s Office — he has acted in numerous high-profile cases before the Tax Tribunals, High Court, Court of Appeal, Supreme Court, and the Court of Justice of the European Union.

Adam is recognised for his deep expertise in managing complex HMRC enquiries and litigation. He is also a regular writer and lecturer on tax issues, contributing to leading professional publications such as Taxation and Tax Journal.

As co-founder of Boardroom Club, Adam Lawrence helps SME property investors, developers, and traders scale their businesses while fostering collaboration across the community. Over the past decade, Adam has been involved in more than 800 UK property deals, securing eight figures in joint venture funding and building a substantial long-term portfolio.

He analyses macro trends shaping the UK property market, sharing actionable insights through The Sunday Supplement Newsletter and the Propenomix YouTube channel. Alongside his investment and asset management ventures, Adam provides end-to-end services for residential investors, guiding them through complex markets with clarity and confidence.

A Warwick MBA (Dean’s List) and Oxford PPE graduate, Adam combines academic rigour with practical business acumen, applying a data-driven approach to investment and risk management to help others achieve strong, sustainable returns.

As Director of Property Foundations Group, Adam leads a team dedicated to helping landlords and property investors in Berkshire achieve their goals. With over 15 years in the UK property market, he has a proven record of acquiring and managing properties for himself and clients, delivering strong returns and lasting relationships.

Adam is also the Founder of The Reading Property Meet, a popular monthly event where investors network, learn, and share insights on topics such as financing, development, refurbishment, and management. Through this platform and his mentoring programmes, he supports both new and experienced investors.

Passionate about empowering others, Adam focuses on helping people build wealth and long-term freedom through property.

Akhil Mair is the Managing Director of Our Mortgage Broker Limited, bringing over 20 years of experience in UK banking, corporate finance, and both residential and commercial mortgages. Since 2002, he has built a strong reputation for delivering tailored financial solutions with professionalism and integrity.

He founded Our Mortgage Broker Limited with a clear mission — to become the most trusted, referred, and sought-after mortgage and finance advisory firm in the UK.

The firm provides a full range of services, including specialist, residential, buy-to-let, second charge, expat and foreign national mortgages, as well as bridging, development, commercial, refurbishment, auction, and business finance, alongside mortgage and insurance protection.

Andrew Thornhill KC is a highly experienced barrister with a distinguished practice in tax law and related areas. He advises on employee benefit trusts, remuneration, share schemes, inheritance tax, capital gains tax planning, and litigation, providing expert guidance on both planning and disputes.

A former Recorder (Criminal) on the Western Circuit for over a decade, he presided over serious and complex trials, gaining deep insight into evidence, advocacy, and courtroom procedure.

He also leads large-scale independent investigations, often in sensitive contexts involving fund tracing, asset recovery, and corporate accountability.

Combining specialist tax expertise with judicial and investigative experience, Andrew delivers rigorous analysis and authoritative judgment on the most complex legal, financial, and evidential matters.

Ani Mokashi is a Director at D4P and an award-winning architect whose work was recognised by Who’s Who of Executives as Man of the Year 2011/12. Passionate about architecture and landscape, Ani has led and delivered numerous award-winning projects of varying scale and complexity.

A skilled communicator and proactive leader, he is known for building strong, long-term relationships with clients and collaborators alike. Ani combines creativity with technical precision, bringing a problem-solving mindset and meticulous attention to detail to every project. His ability to perform under pressure and deliver results to exacting standards defines his professional approach.

Dan Neidle is a British tax lawyer, investigative journalist, and commentator specialising in tax law and policy. He spent 23 years at international law firm Clifford Chance, where he became the firm’s UK Head of Tax in 2020.

After retiring from practice, Dan founded Tax Policy Associates, a non-profit organisation that advises policymakers and journalists on tax matters, promoting transparency and integrity in tax policy.

His investigative work has been widely recognised, earning him the “Investigation of the Year” award at the British Journalism Awards 2023 for his contributions to public understanding of tax issues.

David Welsh is an Advocate (Scotland), Barrister (England & Wales), and TEP, with a practice focused on public law, tax and trusts, and commercial law. He has extensive experience in complex and high-profile litigation, with a particular interest in cross-border and international matters.

David holds full rights of audience in all courts and tribunals across Scotland, England, and Wales. Alongside his litigation work, he is frequently instructed to provide strategic advice and written opinions on intricate legal issues.

Edward Jones is a Property and Commercial Litigator with 24 years of experience handling complex real estate and business disputes.

His property law practice covers all areas of real estate dispute resolution, including landlord and tenant issues, possession and rent arrears proceedings, co-ownership disputes, 1954 Act claims, service charge debts, dilapidations, title and boundary disputes, restrictive covenants, alienation, break clauses, rent reviews, construction claims, breaches of covenant, and investment disputes.

In commercial law, Edward advises on contractual and business disputes, debt recovery, wills, trusts and probate matters, professional negligence, and insolvency cases.

Ian Burton is a qualified solicitor in England and Wales, with over 25 years’ experience in corporate and commercial transactions. Ian is also an attorney admitted to the bar in the State of New York.

James Wilson specialises in wealth management, retirement planning, cash flow forecasting, UK tax planning, and inheritance and estate planning.

He entered the world of wealth management after struggling to find the right guidance for his own investments. Today, he helps clients make informed financial decisions through clear, practical advice — whether it’s traditional budgeting, tax-efficient planning, or school fee strategies. James is passionate about simplifying complex investment and tax matters, ensuring his clients feel confident and in control of their financial futures.

Outside of work, James can usually be found in the kitchen or out on the golf course.

Jane Deeks is the founder of Deeks VAT Consultancy Ltd, acting as an in-house VAT specialist for tax and accountancy practices to improve the quality and efficiency of their client service. With over 26 years of experience, she began her career at PwC and went on to work for three of the Big Four firms.

Born into a travelling funfair family, Jane’s unconventional start in life taught her business skills long before she returned to education at 17. She went on to earn a Law degree with honours and a Commendation in Legal Practice from the University of Birmingham before qualifying as a Chartered Tax Adviser.

In 2018, she founded Deeks VAT Consultancy Ltd to offer bespoke, independent advice on VAT, SDLT, CIL, Customs Duty, Indirect Taxes, and International VAT to accountants, solicitors, and businesses worldwide.

Jay Howard is the Co-Founder and Chief Commercial Officer of HAMMERED, the platform making property auctions simple and accessible for all. He is also the co-author of the Amazon #1 bestselling book Before the Hammer Falls and a respected property commentator.

With over 20 years of experience in property investment, auctions, and trading, Jay has worked across residential, mixed-use, and commercial sectors.

In 2013, he co-founded Hammered to streamline the auction process for buyers and sellers, combining practical expertise with a passion for demystifying property auctions and helping investors succeed.

Katherine Bullock is a specialist tax barrister and chartered tax adviser who helps business families and their professional advisers manage change and its associated tax challenges. She focuses on high-net-worth individuals and their businesses, particularly those with land interests, advising on all areas of personal and corporate tax — both contentious and non-contentious — and drafting and negotiating family charters and constitutions.

With over 30 years’ experience, Katherine previously served as UK Head of Private Client at PwC and Head of Private Client for EMEIA at EY. Recognised among the Most Influential Private Client Advisers (2013, 2014, 2018) and Spears Top 50 Tax Advisers, she is known for her creativity, tenacity, and ability to resolve complex situations with clarity and precision.

Michael Bennett is an experienced Managing Director in the software applications sector with a proven record of driving business growth, increasing shareholder value, and preparing companies for successful trade sales or flotations. Over the past 18 years, he has built and sold four companies, delivering significant returns for investors.

His core expertise lies in the value and supply chain, helping clients unlock the benefits of enterprise software solutions. In a recent role, he transformed an ERP company by refocusing its strategy around an SME trading portal, leading to a successful trade sale.

More recently, Michael has expanded into tax planning, partnering with trusted specialists to deliver innovative strategies for optimising personal, corporate, CGT, IHT, and SDLT liabilities.

Patrick Cannon LL.B, BCL (Oxon), CTA (Fellow) is a leading tax barrister, licensed by the Bar Standards Board to accept public access work and conduct litigation.

A former practising solicitor and council member of the Chartered Institute of Taxation, Patrick advises on civil and criminal tax disputes with HMRC, challenges to tax avoidance schemes, and actions against advisers involved in mis-sold arrangements now subject to APNs and Follower Notices.

He is also a recognised authority on Stamp Duty Land Tax and related matters. His publications include Tolley’s Stamp Taxes (annual) and GAAR: A Practical Approach (3rd ed., Key Haven, 2018).

Patrick Soares is a leading tax specialist advising on all areas of taxation, with particular expertise in property transaction structuring, VAT, trusts, and offshore tax. He acts for a wide range of high-profile clients and major commercial enterprises.

A former tax partner at a prominent London law firm, Patrick holds a Master’s Degree in Taxation from University College London and is a Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Taxation.

He regularly lectures on complex tax topics and chairs London conferences on Optimum Tax Structures for Land Transactions and Overseas Trusts and Companies. Patrick is also the Tax Editor of the Property Law Bulletin and the author of several leading works on VAT and offshore investment.

Patrick Way KC, co-founder of Field Court Tax Chambers, is a leading barrister with an exceptional advocacy and advisory practice. He has represented clients at every level of the UK courts, acting for both taxpayers and HMRC in cases involving sums reaching into the billions. 

Patrick has also advised on some of the UK’s largest takeovers and transactions. His clients range from major corporations and high-profile individuals to charities and SMEs, drawing on his deep expertise across virtually every area of UK tax law.

Peter Vandervennin has worked in the finance industry for over 35 years, beginning his career at Prudential as a District Agent advising clients on pensions, investments, bonds, and mortgages.

He later founded The Mortgage Consultancy, offering a holistic approach to financial advice across the full range of services. As a qualified Financial Adviser, Peter helps clients make confident, informed decisions about their finances — from mortgage planning to long-term investment strategies.

With decades of experience and a client-focused ethos, Peter remains committed to providing trusted, transparent advice that helps individuals and families achieve financial security.

Piotr Rusinek is the co-founder of HAMMERED and the Auction Buyers Club, and author of the Amazon #1 bestselling book Before the Hammer Falls — the insider’s guide to buying and selling property at UK auctions.

With over 15 years of experience in property investing, auctions, and trading, Piotr has handled a wide range of transactions across residential, mixed-use, and commercial properties.

In 2013, he founded Hammered to simplify the auction process for buyers and sellers alike. Today, he continues to share his expertise through education, collaboration, and hands-on support for those navigating the fast-paced world of property auctions.

Ray McCann is a Chartered Tax Adviser (Fellow) and Past President of the Chartered Institute of Taxation, with nearly 50 years of experience in UK and international tax.

During his 31 years at HMRC, Ray held senior positions across the AAG, LBS (Banking), SCO, SIS, and Revenue Policy teams, gaining extensive insight into the workings of tax administration and enforcement.

Following his HMRC career, he held senior roles at PwC, Pinsent Masons, and JHA, advising clients on complex tax matters. Ray is widely respected for his deep technical expertise, leadership in the profession, and contributions to UK tax policy and practice.

Richard Gray is the founder of Elysium Law, a BSB-regulated entity with both public access and litigation privileges, offering clients the expertise of experienced counsel combined with the full functionality of a solicitor’s practice.

After leaving mainstream chambers in Manchester, Richard set out to disrupt the traditional legal model by creating a cost-effective, tech-driven, and client-centric firm. His team has been instrumental in major group litigation cases exceeding £20 million, collaborating with leading law firms across the UK.

Elysium Law provides commercial, company, litigation, and tax advice to clients worldwide — from the UK to Dubai and Hong Kong — delivering independent, results-focused counsel through innovative technology and a collaborative legal model.

Rod Turner is the founder of ITP Group, a UK-based property investment and development company with a diverse portfolio spanning residential projects in London and Manchester, residential investments across England and Scotland, and commercial properties in offices, healthcare, and leisure.

With deep expertise in property markets, financial structuring, and risk management, Rod specialises in identifying and executing high-potential investment opportunities while ensuring disciplined, risk-aware growth.

He also leads 978 Finance, helping businesses secure tailored funding solutions, and co-runs The Boardroom Club, advising SME property businesses on strategy, growth, and risk mitigation.

Rod hosts The Rodcast, a podcast on asset-backed investments and UK real estate.

Ruby Keeler-Williams is a Chartered Legal Executive specialising in complex and high-value litigation. Her experience spans professional negligence, breach of contract, trust disputes, data privacy, and compliance.

Ruby has acted in major professional negligence and off-plan development claims, securing multi-million-pound recoveries for client groups. She has also represented trustees in a £5 million hybrid Part 7/Part 8 trust dispute, resolving contested issues through a 17-hour mediation involving international beneficiaries.

Her work includes defending contractors in EBT-related litigation, managing large-scale data breach claims, advising on GDPR rights, and developing corporate compliance frameworks.

Known for her meticulous approach and client-focused service, Ruby provides clear, tailored advice to high-profile individuals and organisations.

Sandra Rankine is a Partner at Elliott Matthew Property Lawyers, with extensive experience in property and corporate law. She has a proven track record in conveyancing, legal advice, due diligence, and lease administration, supporting clients through complex transactions with clarity and precision.

Known for her professionalism and entrepreneurial approach, Sandra combines deep legal expertise with practical insight, helping clients achieve smooth and successful outcomes across residential and commercial property matters.

A graduate of Kilsyth Academy, she continues to build trusted relationships within the legal and property sectors.

Simon Nosworthy is Head of Residential Property Law, overseeing all aspects of residential conveyancing, including sales, purchases, and re-mortgaging across England and Wales.

With over 15 years of experience, Simon has handled transactions for families, professionals, and high-profile clients, leading a team of 10 solicitors and paralegals. His team manages everything from first-time buyer flats to multi-million-pound freehold properties, delivering exceptional service and securing positive client feedback.

Recognised as a Distinguished Individual in Spear’s 500 (2020), Simon is also a regular property market commentator. He qualified in 2001 after studying Economics and Social History and attending the College of Law, York. Outside work, he enjoys travelling and outdoor adventures with his family.

Sue Sims is a Director at Genie Homes, a leading property management company providing high-quality lettings, maintenance, and buy-to-let solutions across Birmingham and the surrounding areas. With over a decade of industry experience, Sue has a proven track record in enhancing rental income, maximising property value, and delivering outstanding client service.

She is also the co-founder of Partners in Property, an independent Midlands-based network that connects and supports property professionals. Through this platform, Sue shares her expertise on market trends and investment opportunities, helping others achieve their property goals.

Passionate about quality and relationships, Sue is dedicated to maintaining high standards for both landlords and tenants alike.