Conversation with James Rogers: From Building, Brokering, to Balti's
Last updated: 2 Oct 2024
Meet James Rogers
In this episode of Deal Finder's Corner, we were joined by James Rogers, a dynamic entrepreneur and property investor who started his career as a painter and decorator before moving into plumbing, mortgage brokering, and property development. James is the founder of "Property and Poppadoms", the fastest-growing property networking event in the UK, where he continues to inspire and connect professionals across the industry.
In this article we will explore James' journey from the construction sites of Devon to the forefront of property networking in the UK. James shares invaluable insights on overcoming personal and professional challenges, finding hidden opportunities in the property market, and fostering growth through innovation. Learn how his unique experiences and hard-earned lessons can help you thrive in the property investment world.
From building sites to property investing – a journey of growth
James Rogers' journey began humbly as a painter and decorator, a role he took on at age 16. Reflecting on his early experiences, he says:
“It taught me to work fast but also hard, to get the job done correctly while considering those around you.”
James' career took many turns—from decorating to plumbing and even door-to-door sales—before he finally ventured into property investment. His realisation that many property owners he worked with were investors sparked his desire to own properties rather than just renovate them.
As he navigated through various roles, James developed a deep understanding of the property market's intricacies. He began by raising private finance and flipping properties, quickly realising that there was much more potential if he took a creative approach to property development. Over time, James expanded his expertise to include mortgage brokering, enabling him to offer tailored financial solutions to property investors, a service he believes is crucial for achieving success in today’s competitive market.
Navigating challenges and embracing change
James's path was far from smooth, marked by both professional achievements and personal hardships. Despite facing setbacks, including a failed marriage, health issues, and a challenging start in property flipping, James continued to push forward, demonstrating the importance of resilience and adaptability in the face of adversity. His story is a statement to the power of perseverance and the value of learning from every experience, good or bad.
“You have to work hard, put in the time, and show up every day, even when things aren't going your way.”
Innovating with “Property and Poppadoms”
James founded "Property and Poppadoms" after noticing that traditional property networking events lacked engagement. His idea was simple yet revolutionary—combine networking with a relaxed, social dinner setting. The result? A property networking event like no other, growing from 8 to over 100 attendees within a year, and now hosting 26 meetings across the country. James shares his secret to success:
“I just get up every single day and put in the work. There’s no secret formula to it—just hard work and dedication.”
His networking events have become a unique space where property professionals, from newcomers to seasoned investors, can connect meaningfully and share knowledge. The concept has resonated so well that James is now considering expanding "Property and Poppadoms" internationally, taking his innovative model to new markets.
James' innovative approach to networking events has not only provided a platform for like-minded property investors to connect but also offered him a therapeutic outlet during challenging times, helping him overcome personal struggles.
Actionable tips:
Resilience matters: Even in difficult circumstances, keep moving forward by setting small, achievable goals.
Innovate your approach: Don’t be afraid to shake things up and try new ways of connecting with people in your industry.
Stay authentic: James emphasises the value of being genuine and transparent in all dealings—whether in property investment or personal relationships.
Conclusion
James Rogers' journey highlights the importance of perseverance, innovation, and authenticity. His experiences show that success in property investment isn't about following a linear path but about adapting, learning, and finding new ways to connect with others.
Watch the full episode of Deal Finder's Corner to hear more from James Rogers. Don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter for more expert tips on property investment.
