Who We Are at Bel Air Lending
- Samantha Sykes
- Sep 5
- 3 min read
At Bel Air Lending, we believe wealth should be working—not sitting idle. For over 7 years, we’ve helped investors work toward their financial goals by providing secure, high-yield opportunities backed by real estate.
We welcome the opportunity to learn more about your situation to see if we could be a good fit for you.
Our Mission
We exist to bridge the gap between investors with “dry money” sitting in low-yield accounts and real estate developers who need capital to bring projects to life. Every dollar invested with Bel Air Lending is backed by real estate, giving our investors peace of mind alongside exceptional returns.
Our Team
John Ford – Founder & Chief Executive Officer
With an NC General Contractor license and membership in the American Association of Private Lenders, John has overseen the funding of over $100 million in loans since 2018.
Jeanne Ford – Chief Financial Officer
Manages Ford Associates NC and Carolina Residential Solutions’ financial operations and real estate portfolios.
Samantha Edwards (Sami) – Loan Underwriter & Marketing
A Meredith College Business & Marketing graduate (2020), specializing in short-term loans like fix-and-flips, new builds, and refinances—while also managing marketing and communications.
Jeff Hughes – Construction Manager
Licensed NC general contractor since 1985, overseeing rehab and new construction projects at Bel Air Lending and Ford Associates NC.
Dawn Greene – Paralegal
Served 38 years as a certified paralegal and law firm office manager in High Point before joining Bel Air Lending in 2022, bringing legal precision and consistency.
Steve Lowry – Attorney & Trust Administrator
Founder of Lowry & Associates (since 2003), he ensures legal strength in every transaction and has supported Bel Air Lending for seven years.
Cindy Blair – Land Development Underwriter
Brings extensive experience across conventional and private lending, compliance, servicing, and pipeline management, joining Bel Air Lending in August 2024.
Goldie – Team Mascot
Our beloved dog is part of the soul of Bel Air—a Raleigh local that’s known for chasing sticks, saying hello to everyone, and brightening the office. 🐾
Our Advisory Team
We are grateful for the wisdom and experience of our 10-person Advisory Team—a group of trusted professionals who provide valuable guidance in real estate, finance, and strategic growth. Their input helps us make sound decisions, seize opportunities, and stay aligned with our mission of delivering consistent, secure returns.
What Our Investors Say
“I began investing with Bel Air Lending 6 years ago and I can say that without any doubt it has been the best investment I have ever made. As John says, it’s slow and boring, the money just keeps coming in every day. The new app they have created gives you up-to-the-minute info on your investments and ease of creating new investments. This is the best deal ever.” — Gary B.
Our Private Money Team
At Bel Air Lending, we proudly refer to our investors as our Private Money Team—a community of individuals who entrust us with their hard-earned money to put to work in real estate-backed opportunities.
Today, our Private Money Team includes over 280 active lenders, with over $41 Million currently invested. This network spans 24 states across the U.S. and even extends internationally into Ecuador.
Their trust is the foundation of Bel Air Lending, and their continued commitment allows us to fund impactful projects while delivering the secure, consistent returns our investors value.
Our Giving Back
Empowering Communities Through Housing
Our financing doesn’t just offer returns—it creates opportunities. Our loans help rehabbers generate income, tradespeople secure steady work, and homeowners enjoy updated, comfortable living spaces. Beyond that, revitalized neighborhoods boost property values and contribute to local government services through increased tax revenue. 👉 Learn more
Purposeful Investing via Prison Alliance
In partnership with Prison Alliance—an international ministry spreading hope through correctional institutions—we’ve launched a $1 million investment fund. With a minimum $10,000 investment, investors earn 10–12% returns while directing 1% of their investment toward capital needs for this transformative ministry. 👉 Learn more
Supporting Local Arts
We’re also proud partners of the Raleigh Community Orchestra, helping sustain and enrich the arts in our city. Through this partnership, we’re investing not only in financial growth but also in the cultural heartbeat of our community. 👉 Learn more
Why Choose Bel Air Lending?
✔ Guaranteed double-digit returns
✔ Investments backed by real estate
✔ Over 7 years of trusted experience
✔ Proven track record with referrals, over half of our investors were introduced by friends or family
✔ Easy-to-use Investor Portal with real-time investment tracking
✔ A team committed to transparency and personal service
Join Us
Whether you’re an investor ready to put your money to work, or a real estate developer in need of funding, Bel Air Lending is here to partner with you.