Property Focus – The Interview: Jim Banfi

IN our series of interviews with top professionals from across the property sector, TheBusinessDesk catches up with Jim Banfi, partner and head of commercial property at Manchester law firm JMW.

What are your views of the current state of the commercial property and property development markets?

2011 will remain difficult but there are some encouraging signs. Some sectors like food retail have and will continue to progress. My feeling is that the localism agenda being promoted by the coalition should ease things on the planning front, but we need to remember that it was not until1996-97 that we saw evidence of significant recovery from the last property dip of the early 1990s.

What key challenges and pieces of legislation do you think will most affect your sector over the coming months?

The banking sector needs to regain its confidence so that it can properly participate in the provision of funding to the property industry on terms that not only reflect prudent banking practice but at the same time are viable and realistically pitched.

Why do you think the North West is a good place to do business?

We’re lucky to have a wealth of well qualified, skilled, talented, hard working and enterprising people contributing massively to the many excellent business enterprises run by energetic, common sense, no nonsense proprietors. Costs are competitive and as a result professionals are able to offer top quality value for money services. Contrary to popular misconceptions the North West is characterised by a host of busy and stimulating towns and cities that are well run with great amenities. Each is within easy reach of some of the most breathtakingly attractive scenery and countryside on the planet. It all makes for a cracking good place to live and work.

What is your favourite building in the North West and why?

The Three Graces on Liverpool’s water front. Although each has its own style and character, they work together as a single magnificent architectural entity. They are what landmark buildings are all about.

If you could improve anything in your region, what would it be?

Job prospects for the young people who have worked so hard to progress/graduate in their chosen field; the provision of affordable homes for them; the weather and Tranmere Rovers’ league position.

What was your first job and how did you enter your current line of work?

I started my working life as a demolition labourer at the age of 13. Ironically it was knocking down buildings that gave me an understanding and appreciation of the built environment and led me to pursue a career in property. I got involved in my first property when I was 16.

What do you most enjoy about your job?

Forging strong and lasting relationships with clients I admire and respect. Working alongside skilled and talented professionals and colleagues. Being part of team with those clients and professionals which, whether it’s a property development or investment project, is able to overcome significant challenges and create something lasting and worthwhile

What barriers have you faced during your career and how have you overcome them?

32 hours in a day would come in handy but that apart I’ve not encountered any significant barriers. My experience is that if you are prepared to work hard and give clients the highest level of service and commitment as and when they need it there is nothing you can’t achieve

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever been given?

Oscar Wilde said: “Always forgive your enemies – that’s what they hate the most”.

And the worst? 

I don’t listen to bad advice