TAB is a comprehensive real estate finance and investment platform, established in 2018 to address the needs of property projects that do not align with traditional lenders’ stringent criteria.
Recognising the demand for a lender adept in bridging loans with the ability to transact swiftly while maintaining a prudent approach to risk, TAB crafted a lending model that emphasises flexibility and considers borrowers’ unique needs. By sourcing funds from institutions and individuals alike, TAB finances a diverse array of projects. With a team of seasoned professionals, including in-house legal experts, quality underwriters, and skilled salespeople, TAB has successfully written over £500 million in loans within four years and aims for a £700 million loan book by 2025.
TAB’s platform provides bespoke finance quotes based on the potential of each project, delivering quick turnaround times and adapting to real-time market changes.
Expanding its reach, TAB now leverages its extensive lending experience, diverse funding sources, and nationwide presence to offer competitive finance solutions and a growing array of investment opportunities. These include bridging loans, fractional property ownership, joint ventures, competitive debt funding options, and potential returns of 11%+ per annum to investors.
With nearly 50 years of lending experience, TAB’s founder Duncan Kreeger has overseen more than £2.5 billion in new loans and managed a loan book exceeding £400 million. His deep understanding of borrower needs and investor requirements has driven TAB to prioritise trust, transparency, personalisation, efficiency, and innovation in delivering outstanding client service.
In this Q&A, we explore Duncan’s inspiration behind starting TAB, his business philosophy, and his advice for budding entrepreneurs.
What was the inspiration behind starting TAB:
The idea for TAB came from wanting to modernise the lending world. I envisioned TAB not just as another lending company, but as a technology-driven property company setting new benchmarks for speed and efficiency, championing responsible lending and opening up financial opportunities.
We’re leveraging the latest technology to make this happen. By harnessing real-time data and embracing innovations like AI and open banking, we’re developing a financial service that is more responsive to today’s market and can make transactions smoother than ever.
The goal was simple: fill in the gaps left by traditional lenders. I wanted to offer flexible solutions that fit with what people need.
Who do you admire and why
I don’t have a single role model. Instead, I admire and learn from a variety of successful entrepreneurs and businesses. It’s about being open-minded and continually learning. I look out for what makes companies excel, observe the best practices and incorporate these insights into my work.
Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently with TAB
I’m not focused on looking back, but rather on moving forward. When I identify areas for improvement, I act on them. My approach is about adapting to the current environment and being ready to pivot when necessary. I am agile and responsive to present challenges and opportunities rather than regretting past decisions.
What defines your way of doing business
My approach is defined by trust, transparency and a willingness to learn. I build strong relationships through open communication, while constantly learning and evolving to needs in real time.
What advice would you give to someone starting?
Start now – there’s no better time. Don’t let rejection stop you; if you hear “no,” seek alternatives, learn from it and adapt.
