Simple Crowdfunding

Simple Crowdfunding is a UK property-focused crowdfunding platform operating as Focus 2020 Limited (FRN 727214), founded in 2013. The firm appears on the FCA Register but is recorded as 'Authorised — applied to cancel', meaning it remains subject to FCA standards while that application is processed.

The platform also uses the trading name Simple Property Ltd (FRN 747022), which is an Appointed Representative of Share In Ltd (FRN 603332). Different trading names carry different regulatory relationships — check the specific legal entity on your account paperwork and investment documents.

Simple Crowdfunding lists UK property development projects and loan opportunities. Investors register, complete suitability checks, and use an online dashboard to view and manage investments across cash, IFISA and SSAS pension accounts where eligible. The platform also runs a 'Learn Whilst Investing' programme of educational events.

The intermediary role means due diligence remains with investors — project performance depends on third-party developers and underlying property security.

Two main product types: equity stakes in property projects and property-backed P2P loans. Typical minimum investment is £100, with project-specific minimums varying. IFISA and SSAS pension wrappers are available for eligible investments.

Fees (fundraisers): £2,600 (ex VAT) application fee, 6% (ex VAT) success fee, plus legal/processing/survey costs; debt products reference a 1.5% annual management fee. Investors generally see no upfront fees but an IFISA transfer fee of c.£100 is noted. The platform has cited an average IFISA-eligible return of c.11% p.a. on its own materials — platform-reported, not independently audited.

Retail investors interested in UK property who want smaller entry sizes (c.£100) and access to property IFISA or pension wrappers where eligible. Investments are higher risk than cash or standard savings, are typically illiquid (no formal secondary market), and capital is at risk — investors can lose all invested capital. IFISA-held investments are not protected by the FSCS.

The 'Authorised — applied to cancel' status of Focus 2020 Limited is the headline issue — it creates real uncertainty about long-term authorisation and warrants close monitoring of FCA updates and account paperwork. A historic Financial Ombudsman Service decision (DRN-3501726) found disclosure shortcomings in a Share In Ltd / Simple Crowdfunding promotion for a 2018 investment, which is worth reading. Combine that with limited independent performance verification, scarce third-party reviews and no formal secondary market, and this is a platform that requires unusually careful document-level due diligence.