My Journey from painting to property.
I’ve been in property now for 47 years. That’s not a typo. Nearly five decades of bricks, mortar, mess ups and major wins. My journey started as a child with a love of art and history - two passions that would quietly steer me into a life of interior design, architectural transformation, and property development.
Today, I sit at the helm of a £14.4 million portfolio that includes over 34 listed buildings, and I want to share what I know. Not because I think I have all the answers, but because I’ve made every mistake in the book. I’ve lived through financial crashes, planning nightmares, construction chaos, and all the joys in between. And now, through the Elite Mentoring Guild, I’m showing others how to navigate the property world without the unnecessary scars.
My Journey: From Paint to Property
I wasn’t top of the class. In fact, I wasn’t particularly academic at all. But I could paint. And that skill gave me confidence. It led me to art college and later into commercial interior design. From there, I worked with major architectural practices and eventually with Mitchells & Butlers, designing pubs, hotels and restaurants across the country.
Eventually, I ran my own firm, employing 35 people, designers, project managers, surveyors, delivering complex commercial conversions all over the UK. From Victorian schools to derelict churches, and even a coal barge turned pub in Leeds.
It wasn't long before I moved into development. No courses, no mentors back then. I just did it. My first project was a commercial conversion, and like everything else, I figured it out as I went along. Since then, I've refurbished or built over 500 properties, including more than 30 listed buildings. One of my current projects is Marske Hall, a Grade II listed Georgian estate with a stable block and sawmill. It has taught me more than any textbook ever could.
Why Mentoring Matters Now
At 63, I’ve no desire to stop entirely. But I do want to share. I’ve mentored with Progressive Property, trained hundreds of investors, and even helped launch commercial conversion courses. Now, I'm building something of my own. The Elite Mentoring Guild is my way of giving back while staying in the game.
I don’t offer hype or high-pressure tactics. What I offer is grounded, real-world mentoring based on five core principles.
The Five Pillars of Property Mentoring
1. Real Experience You Can Rely On
You don’t need another guru. You need someone who’s done the hard yards. I’ve worked through market crashes, borrowed when rates were through the roof, and built things that genuinely stand the test of time. My advice doesn’t come from theory; it comes from trenches.
2. Tailored Guidance for Your Journey
Everyone’s path is different. Whether you're just starting out or scaling your existing portfolio, I work with you to understand your goals, experience, and appetite for risk. There’s no one-size-fits-all here, only tailored strategies that suit your situation.
3. Transparent, No-Hype Mentorship
If you’re looking for gimmicks or fast money, I’m not your guy. I believe in clear, honest guidance. No smoke and mirrors. No unrealistic promises. Just straight-talking advice built on decades of doing the work.
4. Support That Keeps You Moving
Property can be a lonely game. That’s why my mentorship isn’t a one-off call or a cookie-cutter course. It’s structured support with accountability, regular check-ins, and honest conversations that keep you on track.
5. Immediate, Actionable Insights
Every session is practical. Every tool, every tip, every strategy is designed to be implemented. Whether it’s sourcing off-market deals, managing contractors, or maximising your returns, I focus on what works now—not what worked in a booming market five years ago.
Final Word
If you're serious about building a property business that lasts, not just one that looks good on social media, then the Elite Mentoring Guild might be for you. It’s not about getting rich quick. It’s about getting skilled, getting smart, and getting results.
I’ve been where you are. And I’m still learning. But if you want someone who’s walked the walk, I’m here to help you take that next step, and the ones after that.
Coming Soon: AI Ian Morton
I’m currently working on something new. I’m building an AI version of myself, a digital Ian Morton trained on my 47 years of property experience. Soon, you’ll be able to get round-the-clock support, advice and guidance from the AI Property Mentor, available 24/7 at
Contact details
Visit Elite Mentoring Guild to find out more - www.aipropertymentor.com.
