The Five Minute Interview with Colin Sanders, CEO, Tuscan Capital

By Tony Sanchez 15th May 2018

Tuscan Capital provides non-regulated short-term bridging finance to the residential and semi-commercial real estate sector in England and Wales.

Launched-to-market in 2018, the lender offers funding on both a conventional and non-conventional lending basis in sums from £150k upwards.

We speak to chief executive officer, Colin Sanders:

What is the best thing about being in the bridging finance business?

It’s a fast-moving sector where every deal is unique. It seems that I never stop learning and that every day is full of surprises and new situations.

What keeps you focused?

In a start-up business like Tuscan Capital there is so much to do to establish ourselves. This challenge is what keeps me alert and focused.

What qualities do you look for in your employees or colleagues?

After the obvious competencies, it’s about loyalty and buying into our philosophy – conscientious and approachable are two key qualities.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

Plan for the worst and hope for the best is my way of looking at life…

What did you want to be as a child?

An adult…. I couldn’t wait.

What will be the greatest challenge facing the bridging industry in the coming months?

A crowded market = Squeezed margins and increased risk. A tricky combination if lenders chase volume. This doesn’t end well if the property market takes a bit of a downturn.

Who or what makes you laugh?

Old “Top of the Pops” footage – to think they were all so cool! Hilarious now.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

Not right now. Since launching Tuscan Capital I have a spring in my step on Mondays. Like everyone, I have had that low “I don’t like Mondays” feeling, but for me that’s the time to make a change.

If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?

My age, Oh to be 21, but with what I know now.

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

Sade, the female singer, although she has a lot to live up to in my imagination after 30 years of dreaming of an opportunity to meet her. I doubt I would eat much!