The Five Minute Interview with Gemma Salousti, Underwriter, Masthaven

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Masthaven Bridging Finance is an FSA regulated multi award winning lender that paid out its first loan in 1983.

In that time Masthaven has become a regular port of call for brokers, intermediaries and IFA’s alike wishing to place first and second charge bridging loans along with renovation and refurbishment deals.

With backing from the William Pears Group and Saffron Building Society amongst others Masthaven is one of the true leading lights in the bridging finance arena.

We speak to underwriter Gemma Salousti:

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

Being able to work on something different each day and learn new things all the time. I can honestly say you will never get bored if you work in bridging.

What keeps you focussed?

Being able to work on challenging cases and continuing to exceed our targets. I also think it helps to stay focussed when you work with a great team of people.

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

I look for commitment, dedication and team players with a great sense of humour.

Are you an optimist or a pessimist?

An optimist, if you think positively positive things will happen.

What did you want to be as a child?

A princess! I still do.

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

I think short term lending will continue to grow as I cannot see high-street lenders changing their criteria anytime soon.

This will mean a much more competitive market place for bridging companies, but that can only be a positive thing for brokers and also for their clients as greater competition means lenders will continue to find ways to improve the way we operate.

Who or what makes you laugh?

My mum! Gone are the days when she looked after me.

Do you dread Monday mornings?

I used to in previous jobs but now that I am doing something I enjoy why dread Mondays.

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

I would think 5 seconds longer before I act!

With whom would you most like to have dinner?

Prince Harry is still available so having dinner with him may help achieve my childhood dream! See, ever the optimist.

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