The Scottish Property Podcast

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Michelle de Almeida — business coach, entrepreneur, and property investor. Michelle shares her inspiring journey from a 20-year career in hospitality and corporate management to building a thriving property portfolio and multiple successful businesses.Growing up in a working-class family near Liverpool and Manchester, Michelle learned the value of hard work early on. After managing 67 pubs across Scotland for Wetherspoons and running her own restaurant in Portugal, a major health challenge led her to reassess her life and priorities. Today, she’s the founder of Lux Escapes UK and MDA Business, helping others achieve financial freedom and personal growth through property and coaching.🎙️ Episode Highlights🌟 From Humble Beginnings to HospitalityGrowing up in Cheshire in a working-class familyBuilding a strong work ethic from her parents’ exampleSpending over 20 years in hospitality, including six years running a restaurant in PortugalManaging 67 pubs as a Regional Manager for Wetherspoons before leaving corporate life💼 Finding Purpose After Corporate BurnoutLeaving her corporate role after a health setback and lack of supportBecoming CEO of a Coca-Cola–funded non-profit in DundeeHelping thousands of women and micro-businesses out of povertyTransitioning naturally into business coaching and launching MDA Business🏡 Entering the Property WorldCompleting property training in January and buying her first property in AprilPartnering with her brother, Paul, who now manages over 40 viewings a monthFocusing on Serviced Accommodation (SA) and Aparthotels as her main strategyBuilding a business model that generates high cash flow and long-term financial freedom📈 Growth, Strategy & ChallengesSetting a goal of 200 keys (units/beds) to achieve true financial independenceRaising private capital with a minimum £100,000 investment thresholdAvoiding small Buy-to-Lets in favour of scalable, cash-flowing SA unitsOvercoming one of her toughest weeks in property — losing a deal, investor, and remortgage all in one dayNavigating short-term let licensing challenges in Scotland and rising council tax costs💬 Mindset & MotivationUsing multiple business and mindset coaches to stay focused and resilientManaging 12–14 hour workdays with energy and purposeMaintaining perspective through movement, conversation, and mindset workPlanning future growth in St Andrews, Crieff, Montrose, and Cheshire--------------------------------------------------- Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now.----------------------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts and join our monthly networking events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee! CLICK HERE

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Ev Foster, Regional Partner for Keller Williams Scotland. Ev shares her journey from being a stay-at-home mother of four to leading the growth of Keller Williams into a nationwide estate agency brand.After facing financial struggles following a divorce, Ev explored franchising and traditional estate agency work before discovering the Keller Williams model. She explains how the self-employed agent model empowers individuals, provides flexibility, and delivers a more personal service to clients compared to the traditional estate agency model she believes is “broken.”🎙️ Episode Highlights:🌟 From Mum to EntrepreneurJuggling life as a stay-at-home mother of fourFacing financial pressure after divorce and needing to rebuildFirst steps into business with a ladies’ gym franchise and traditional estate agency work🏡 Discovering Keller WilliamsSpotting the KW model as a low-cost, low-risk entry into self-employmentStarting as a self-employed agent in 2017/2018Balancing financial independence with family flexibility📈 Scaling with the KW Business ModelReturning in 2020 to lead the Glasgow market centerHow KW provides training, support, and systems for agents to grow their own businessesWhy she believes the traditional estate agency model is brokenThe rapid growth from zero to over 80 agents across Scotland🚀 Keller Williams Scotland TodayAchieving the five-year goal of becoming a separate region in January 2025Building a business that thrives in towns and villages, not just big citiesRecruiting agents from non-traditional backgroundsPlacing a strong focus on values, culture, and leadership development----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now: ----------------------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts and join our monthly networking events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee!

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Elaine McLaren, chartered management accountant turned property investor. Elaine shares her journey from growing up in Scotstoun with early exposure to renovations, to leaving behind the corporate mould and building a portfolio designed to give her family more freedom and flexibility.From watching Homes Under the Hammer to investing £15,000 in property training, Elaine reveals the importance of vision boards, long-term planning, and staying focused on why you started. She also opens up about her successes, lessons learned, and her evolving strategy — from building buy-to-lets to flipping properties and taking on HMOs.🎙️ Episode Highlights🌟 Early Influences & Corporate LifeGrowing up around property thanks to her father’s renovation projectsPursuing a corporate career as a chartered management accountantRealising she didn’t fit the corporate mould and wanting more flexibility🏡 Getting Started in PropertyInspired by a colleague with 13 properties and Homes Under the HammerInvesting £15,000 in training and waiting a year before buying her first dealWhy she believes education was worth the investment🎯 Building a Vision & PortfolioSetting her first goal: 12 properties to leave her job and focus on family lifeThe power of vision boards to stay motivated and productiveGrowing her portfolio with her husband, including four properties in St Andrews🔑 Lessons & AdviceDo your due diligence before investing in training programmesWhen planning for retirement, set your financial target — then add two more propertiesWhy involving your partner can strengthen your property journey🚀 Current Focus & Future PlansWorking on flips and managing an HMOFeeling like she’s “drifting” without a strong new visionSetting her next big goal: helping her husband retire so they can enjoy more holidays and freedom together

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Graham Reeves, digital marketing entrepreneur, property investor, and founder of an SEO agency that ranks number one for “SEO Glasgow.” Graham shares his journey from struggling with dyslexia at school and working as a chef, to building a thriving online business and scaling a growing buy-to-let portfolio.🎙️ Episode Highlights🌟 From Kitchen Chaos to Business HustleGrowing up in Newton Mearns and overcoming challenges with dyslexiaWorking his way up from dishwasher to chef before leaving hospitalityLearning sales skills through commission-only work and early entrepreneurial ventures💻 Building an SEO BusinessWhy college proved valuable but university felt like “too much fluff”Starting in digital marketing and discovering SEOScaling his SEO agency during Covid through Facebook ads and ranking #1 on GoogleRecruiting and managing a global remote team across South Africa, the Philippines, and SerbiaTips for hiring and retaining top overseas talent🏡 Property Investing JourneyEntering property in 2023 after realising the need to invest profits wiselyFirst six properties: leaving £27,000 in each but gaining £300/month net cashflowLearning BRR strategies and sourcing portfolios through a solicitorLatest deal: six-property portfolio with £7,500 left in each unit, generating £2,000 net per monthWhy he believes portfolios are the way forward🤖 AI & The Future of BusinessHow AI is transforming SEO and content with Google’s AI overviewsUsing ChatGPT to build scrapers and source landlords with large portfoliosLeveraging AI to analyse CRM data, Zoom calls, and sales patternsWhy he believes trades and service jobs are safe, but knowledge work is rapidly changingFrom hustling cigarettes in the schoolyard to launching a marketing agency during Covid, Graham explains how his entrepreneurial mindset has shaped both his business and property journey. He also opens up about investing in property after a period of overspending, his strategy for buying portfolios, and how he’s using AI to source deals and streamline his workflow.

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Phillip Stewart, a property investor and professional property photographer. Phillip shares his journey from a passion for landscape photography to building a successful property media business – and how he’s now using that platform to grow his property portfolio.Phillip talks about working with estate agents, developers, and investors, and explains why professional photography can make or break a property listing. He also opens up about the challenges of starting his own business during COVID, the importance of branding, and how photography has given him a unique advantage when sourcing and investing in property.🎙️ Episode Highlights:🌟 From Passion to ProfessionDiscovering photography at school and turning a hobby into a careerWinning national and international awards in landscape photographyMoving into property photography with McEwan Fraser Legal🏡 Building a Property Media BusinessGaining experience with estate agents before launching his own companyStarting out during COVID while facing tough restrictionsGrowing a team of freelancers and scaling the business across Scotland📸 Why Property Photography MattersHow professional photos, videos, and floorplans boost sales and brandingCase studies showing the difference high-quality marketing can makeBreaking down packages, costs, and the value delivered to agents and investors💬 Property Investing & Personal GrowthUsing his media business profits to buy his first rental propertyTraining with Darren & Jillian Green and planning future HMOs and SA unitsBalancing business growth with family life as a husband and father of two----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now: https://wa.me/447938603856----------------------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts and join our monthly networking events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee!Vist: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Jemima Spence, founder of Kelvin Grove Property Sourcing and Jemima Renovates. Jemima shares her remarkable journey from a modelling and acting career to becoming a property entrepreneur – and the challenges she faced along the way.After leaving her ex-partner’s property business and walking away from a large amount of money, Jemima had to rebuild from scratch. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched her own sourcing business, found her first clients, and began growing a company that now helps investors source and refurbish properties across Scotland.Jemima opens up about resilience, starting over, and why bold design and branding have become her trademark in property.🎙️ Episode Highlights🌟 Career Transition & Starting OverFrom a successful career in modelling and acting to property investmentLeaving her ex-partner’s business and choosing to start again from scratchBuilding confidence and resilience through personal and professional setbacks🏡 Launching Kelvin Grove Property SourcingStarting her own business during the COVID-19 pandemicHow she found her first clients and attracted investorsStructuring her sourcing and refurb management fees🛠️ Design, Branding & RefurbsWhy she believes in bold interiors that make properties stand outLessons learned from challenging renovation projectsUsing social media and personal branding to grow trust and credibility💬 Personal Life & GrowthWalking away from financial security to protect her independenceBalancing business growth with her personal journey after separationHer focus on building a meaningful business – and a meaningful love life

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Neil Dymock to break down the latest developments in the Scottish and wider UK property markets. From falling rents in Dundee to the impact of government taxes, Neil provides valuable insights for landlords, investors, and anyone keeping an eye on where the market is heading.🎙️ Episode Highlights:🏘️ Dundee Rental MarketDundee rents are down 9.9% – the only Scottish city to see a dropWhy Neil sees this as a market correction after rents became unaffordableDespite falling rents, yields for investors remain strong🎓 Impact of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)Growth of PBSA is reshaping Dundee’s HMO marketSurplus of student accommodation, with more still being proposedWhy foreign students prefer PBSA for flexibility and bundled costs🏡 UK & Scottish Property SalesUK house prices: down 1.3% monthly, up 0.3% year-on-yearScotland outperforming the rest of the UK with 2.6% growth over 12 monthsSurge in Dundee first-time buyers boosting local demand💰 Government Taxes & PolicyLBTT (Land and Building Transaction Tax) as a major barrier to downsizingADS (Additional Dwelling Supplement) at 8% deterring many small investorsRecord £714m in Scottish property tax revenue, with ADS contributing 31%📊 Landlord Trends & Market ShiftsOne in three landlords considering exiting the marketPrivate rental sector still growing, driven by professional portfolio landlordsSelf-managed landlords struggling with legislation, benefiting letting agents⚖️ Potential New Tax – NI Contributions on Rental IncomeGovernment considering an 8% National Insurance levy on rental incomeWould apply to personally held properties, raising £2.18bnWhat this could mean for landlords and the wider marketThe discussion covers everything from the growth of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and its effect on HMOs, to landlord trends, tax policy changes, and the possibility of a new National Insurance levy on rental income. This is a must-listen for anyone wanting to stay ahead in a rapidly changing property landscape.

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven welcome back Caroline Claydon, who first appeared on the show in 2020. Since then, Caroline has transformed her property career, moving from HMOs and planning gain projects to building her own boutique aparthotel brand – the Archibald Hotel Collection.Caroline shares the highs and lows of her journey – from overcoming £80,000 of debt in the 2008 crash, to creating multimillion-pound developments in Edinburgh. She opens up about the challenges of planning refusals, rogue contractors, and refinancing setbacks that “nearly broke her,” as well as the systems, AI tools, and design-led approach that now make her business stand out.🎙️ Episode Highlights🏁 From Debt to Property SuccessLosing her first business in the 2008 crash and facing £80,000 personal debtInvesting £22,000 in mentorship despite fear – and making it back in her first dealsStarting with social housing buy-to-lets before scaling into HMOs in Birmingham and Liverpool🏨 Building the Archibald Hotel CollectionWhy she skipped serviced accommodation and went straight to aparthotelsFirst deal: converting a B&B outside Liverpool into an 11-bed aparthotel, opening just as COVID hitLaunching a boutique, staffless hotel brand named after her late dog, Archibald🏗️ Edinburgh Projects – Triumphs & ChallengesStafford Street: buying a derelict office, battling vigilante opposition, tram contribution confusion, and a £1.5m refurb that resulted in a valuation just under £4mJohn’s Place: a painful townhouse project plagued by refused planning, a rogue contractor stealing materials, and lenders pulling funding – leaving her with £27k/month bills and severe burnout🤖 Operations, Systems & AIRunning staffless hotels with smart locks and digital guest accessUsing AI receptionists and chatbots to handle enquiries and bookingsDividing roles with her husband Nick – she leads acquisitions and development, he runs systems and operations🛋️ Designing for Premium ValueWhy boutique, vintage interiors are core to her business modelWorking with designers to create unique looks that command higher ratesInvesting heavily in interiors (£170k on Stafford Street, £250k on John’s Place) to elevate guest experienceIf you’ve ever thought about scaling into commercial conversions or boutique hospitality, this is an unmissable conversation.

In this episode, Nick and Steven sit down with Stephen O’Neill, founder of Newton Property Management, which now manages around 40,000 properties across Scotland. Stephen shares his fascinating journey from growing up in his family’s estate agency business, to launching and selling his own lettings company, and then scaling Newton into one of Scotland’s leading factoring businesses.Known for his straight-talking approach, Stephen unpacks the challenges of reputation in the factoring industry, the realities of acquisitions, and the importance of culture in building a generational business. From surviving mistakes in early ventures to instilling a people-first ethos at Newton, this episode is packed with lessons in growth, resilience, and leadership.🎙️ Episode Highlights:🏁 Early Lessons in BusinessGrowing up around his father’s Glasgow estate agencyWatching the family firm lose control after rapid expansionKey lessons on ownership, shareholding, and capitalisation💼 From O’Neils to NewtonFounding O’Neils Lettings in 1995 and hustling for growthSelling the business in 2000 for ~£750kWhy factoring, with its long-term recurring revenue, became his focus📊 Scaling Newton Property ManagementHow Newton grew to 40,000 properties and ~85 staff across 4 officesThe “30/30/30” profit model that funded growth and acquisitionsBuying competitors at rising multiples – and why Newton is “not for sale”🏠 Factoring, Reputation & RegulationWhy factoring has a bad public image and how Newton tackles itRobust credit control and chasing arrears through debt collection/legal routesCalls for stricter regulation and annual audits of client accountsChallenges with under-resourced tribunals🌍 Culture, Leadership & VisionReturning from Bali to rebuild service quality after rapid growthCreating a people-first company culture: loans, therapy, office lunches, stocked fridgesHis ambition for Newton to be “the best employer in the country”📈 Market Views & Next StepsWhy Stephen is bullish on Aberdeen and sees “Park Circus prices” potentialReflections on being a manager, not a landlordBalancing growth ambitions with the goal of running a generational business----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now: https://wa.me/447938603856----------------------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts and join our monthly networking events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee!Vist: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Declan, founder of Vitality Property, who at just 24 years old has gone from plumbing apprentice to running a thriving refurbishment business and completing multiple property deals – including highly profitable assisted sales.Declan shares his remarkable journey from leaving school at 16, experimenting with side hustles like Amazon FBA and crypto, to building a trusted refurbishment company that now generates off-market deal flow. From his first buy-to-let and early flips to teaming up with other investors and raising £275K in just two days, this is a masterclass in hustle, networking, and creative property strategies.🎙️ Episode Highlights🏗️ From Apprentice to Property EntrepreneurGrowing up in Croydon before moving to ScotlandLeaving school at 16 to become a plumbing & heating engineerHow his trade background became the foundation for his property journey💡 Early Side Hustles & First Property StepsAmazon FBA, crypto, and reselling – lessons learned from failed and modest successesInvesting in mentorship and paying £6k for property training at age 20Buying his first flat, learning about yields, cashflow, and tax pitfalls🔨 Flips, Refurbs, and Learning the Hard WayTurning a heating job lead into a profitable flip in just a few monthsThe Paisley project: overspending, travel challenges, and why he’d never do it againBuilding credibility and leads through his refurbishment business🏠 Mastering the Assisted Sale StrategyHow assisted sales work and why they benefit sellers and investorsLegal safeguards: charges on title, option-to-buy clauses, and ensuring all owners agreeCase studies of successful assisted sales – including inherited properties🤝 Collaboration & Raising FinancePartnering with Kyle White and the Scope Property team to scale projectsRaising £275K in two days through networking and past clientsLeveraging other people’s skills and networks for bigger deals📈 Scaling Up & DiversifyingBuilding a pipeline including flips, buy-to-lets, serviced accommodation, and commercial conversionsWhy collaboration beats competition in the Scottish property marketUsing social proof and track record to win trust with sellers and investorsIf you’ve ever wondered how to turn trade skills into a property portfolio – or want to understand the assisted sale model from someone doing it right now – this episode is packed with actionable insights.

In this week’s episode, we sit down with Edinburgh-based property entrepreneur Graham Budge, who shares how his rent-to-rent journey has evolved into something far greater than just profit—it's now helping tackle Scotland’s housing crisis.Graham walks us through the early days of scaling serviced accommodation units with no capital, the £130k investment loss he endured trying to expand down south, and how he pivoted his entire business model to supply temporary accommodation for local councils in Scotland. Key Takeaways:How rent-to-rent offers a low-barrier entry into property with little capitalThe reality of scaling serviced accommodation pre-licensingHow partnering with local councils created a more stable, long-term income streamBreakdown of profit margins, costs, and risk mitigationLessons learned from losing £130,000 with a failed expansion into EnglandThe importance of investor trust and business resilienceWhy providing high-quality homes for those in need is both ethical and profitable.You’ll hear the real-life highs and lows of property entrepreneurship—everything from making £1,000 per unit per month on average, to nearly losing the business when contracts were pulled overnight. Most importantly, Graham offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at how private landlords can be part of the housing solution while still making a fair return.----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now: https://wa.me/447938603856----------------------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts and join our monthly networking events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee!Vist: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast#scottishpropertypodcast #renttorent #propertyinvesting #temporaryaccommodation #edinburghproperty #servicedaccommodation #propertyentrepreneur #socialimpactinvesting #propertyjourney #financialfreedom

In this episode, we sit down with leasing director Harris Hiscoe, a Scotsman making waves in Dubai’s competitive real estate scene. From his roots in a 5th-generation showman family in Scotland to managing one of the most dominant leasing teams in Dubai, Harris shares the raw truth behind life, business, and building success in the UAE.He opens up about the mental resilience needed to survive and thrive, the lessons learned from near-misses on multimillion-dirham deals, and why Dubai is attracting a growing number of UK-based property investors.Key Highlights:From Scotland to Dubai: Why Harris walked away from the family business to build a life in real estate abroad.How he broke into the industry without any existing contacts or database – and what he did differently to succeed.Getting burned by a £50K commission deal that fell through – and the lessons it taught him.The power of leasing in Dubai: Why he believes it’s the best entry point for UK agents looking to make the leap.UK investors in Dubai: The typical investor profile and why the Dubai property market is booming.Primary vs secondary markets: What investors need to understand about payment plans, off-plan developments, and capital growth.What returns to expect: Rental yields, ROI comparisons, and why Dubai’s market isn’t just hype.Becoming a high-performer: The systems and support behind one of Dubai’s top-performing real estate agencies.#scottishpropertypodcast #dubairealestate #ukinvestors #propertyinvestment #expatlife #dubaiinvestments #leasingdirector #propertysuccess #buildyourportfolio #financialfreedom

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Kris Dalziel, a Glasgow-based property investor and sourcer who has built serious momentum over the past 18 months.Kris shares how he’s managed to source over 200 properties, build a portfolio of 80+ units, and generate £900K+ in sourcing fees—all while navigating the realities of fast growth, investor pressures, and the chaos that comes with managing multiple refurbs and build teams across the UK.Episode Highlights:📈 Massive Growth in 18 Months200+ properties sourced since 202380+ units bought for himself and investors£900K+ in sourcing fees in 2024 alone💸 Behind the Sourcing BusinessWhat it really takes to build a high-volume sourcing companyHow Kris finds deals, works with investors, and structures JV agreementsWhy transparency and systems are everything in this space🔧 Builder & Refurb ManagementManaging multiple build teams across the UKDealing with delays, pricing issues, and communication breakdownsThe toll this takes when you’re running at full speed🧠 Mindset, Burnout & Shifting GearsWhy Kris is stepping back from the chaos to focus on sustainabilityThe mental pressure of scaling too fastHis new focus on paying down debt and holding long-term assets🏢 Letting Agency Launch: Stanley Property ShopWhy Kris started his own agencyThe benefits of bringing property management in-houseChallenges of operating differently from traditional agents⚠️ The Sourcing Industry – Red Flags & Real TalkWhat Kris thinks is wrong with many property sourcers todayKey advice for anyone buying from sourcing agents or auction dealsHow to spot value—and avoid the fluffNow, Kris is shifting focus. After a whirlwind 18 months, he’s prioritising sustainable investing, slowing the pace, and recently launched his own lettings agency to bring more control and long-term value to his business.----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now: https://wa.me/447938603856----------------------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts and join our monthly networking events in Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Dundee!Vist: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven are joined by Taimur Malik, a former finance professional turned property investor, who shares his powerful journey from financial rock bottom to building a 7-figure portfolio.After losing his job and facing a serious health crisis, Taimur found himself over £100,000 in debt and unable to walk. But through discipline, long-term thinking, and smart investing, he’s now on the path to full financial freedom—using a combination of property, stocks, and pensions.This is a refreshingly honest and insightful conversation about building wealth slowly, understanding financial resilience, and why property is just one part of the bigger picture.Episode Highlights:📉 From Crisis to ClarityLosing his job at BlackRock and the moment his health collapsedHow being in debt and housebound pushed him to take control of his financesStarting from scratch after moving to the UK with just £500📈 Wealth Building Through PropertyBuilding a 9-property buy-to-let portfolio with a BRR strategyWhat he looks for in deals: cashflow, long-term demand, and sustainable lendingWhy he pivoted away from short-term lets in Edinburgh📊 The Bigger Wealth PictureWhy Taimur is just as passionate about stocks and pensions as propertyUnderstanding compound growth and why time in the market is more important than timing the marketHow small monthly investments add up to millions over time🧠 Mindset & Financial StrategyWhy more money doesn’t solve money problems—discipline doesHow to think like an investor, not a speculatorThe difference between income, wealth, and financial freedom🧰 Tips for New InvestorsDon’t chase cashflow alone—look for balanced returnsInvest in learning, not just propertyThink long-term and avoid get-rich-quick trapsThis is a refreshingly honest and insightful conversation about building wealth slowly, understanding financial resilience, and why property is just one part of the bigger picture.----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now: https://wa.me/447938603856----------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with John and Luis from Prime Property to explore what it really takes to build a successful career in the property industry. Fresh off a business development trip to Las Vegas, the duo shares what they learned from one of the top business minds in the world and how they’re applying it to grow their Glasgow-based business.This episode pulls back the curtain on what it’s like to work at Prime Property, how they train and incentivize their team, and why they believe building a high-performance sales culture is the key to long-term success. Whether you're a young person trying to break into the industry or an agency owner trying to attract top talent, this conversation is packed with valuable takeaways.🎯 Episode Highlights:💼 Lessons from Las Vegas​John and Luis reflect on the $20k business mastermind in Vegas​Key insight: Identify the real bottleneck holding your business back​How free value leads to long-term client trust and conversions🚀 Careers in Property​The real path for young people looking to get into property​Why starting in a full-time job can fast-track your growth more than deal sourcing on the side​Skills that matter most: coachability, confidence, communication📞 Inside Prime Property​What makes a top performer: 10+ property sales per month and a £10k payday​Their transparent commission model and training systems​Creating a culture of hustle, growth, and long-term opportunity📊 Self-Employed Estate Agency Debate​The pros and cons of the Keller Williams / EXP model​Why low-value Scottish properties make self-employed models risky​Building security and volume through a salaried + commission structure👥 Recruiting and Building Teams​The importance of video interviews, confidence, and likeability in hiring​Why Prime looks for hungry individuals—not just qualifications​How they support personal property investment within the teamThis episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a career in property—or those trying to grow and lead a property business. John and Luis bring energy, honesty, and real-world insights into what it takes to succeed. If you’re thinking of joining the industry or trying to level up your team, this is the roadmap.----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now!----------------------------------------------------#scottishpropertypodcast #propertycareers #primeproperty #propertyjobs #salesculture #dealflow #lettingslife #propertyinvestmentuk #propertytraining #scotlandbusiness #estateagencycareer

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven are joined by Colin Macmillan, managing director of Glasgow Property Letting, for a deep dive into what’s really happening across the Scottish property market.With interest rates expected to shift, rents showing signs of cooling, and new legislation looming, this episode breaks down the latest data and trends affecting both investors and landlords.Colin brings hands-on insight from managing over 300 properties, giving a grounded perspective on how landlords and letting agents are navigating the current landscape.Key Highlights:📉 Scottish House Prices & Sales VolumesWhere property values are holding up — and where they’re slippingWhy sales volumes have dropped despite buyer demand still being thereThe widening affordability gap, especially for FTBs and low-income earners🏠 Rental Market TrendsAnnual rent growth down to 5.6% — and why that’s not a bad thingSigns of softening demand and increased supply in certain regionsWhy 2025 will expose landlords who haven't adjusted to market realities📊 Lettings Insight from the GroundLandlords pushing unrealistic rent increases — and what agents are sayingHow tenants are negotiating harder and shopping around more than everThe shift towards fixed rents and longer tenancies🏢 Student Accommodation BoomRecord number of PBSA (Purpose Built Student Accommodation) units under constructionWhat this means for HMO landlords and the wider rental marketWill Glasgow run out of student tenants?🔧 Legislation, Licensing & Market PressureHighland Council cracking down on short-term letsColin’s view on EPC requirements, ADS, and compliance fatigueWhy government policy continues to hurt affordability instead of helping it#scottishpropertypodcast #propertymarketupdate #rentalmarket #glasgowproperty #landlordtips #scottishhousingcrisis #propertyinvestment #colinmacmillan #studentaccommodation #hmoinvesting #ukpropertymarket #lettingagentlife

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Eoin Baillie, a former gas engineer from West Lothian who’s now one of Dubai’s top-performing real estate brokers. After years in the Scottish property scene, Eoin made a bold move to the UAE — with no contacts, no leads, and 14 suitcases to his name.Today, he’s earning up to £100K per month in commissions, brokering multi-million-dirham deals, and running a high-performing team in one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets. Episode Highlights:🏠 Life Before DubaiHow Eoin got started in property in ScotlandHis experience in construction, lettings, flips, and service accommodationWhy he decided to walk away from his UK portfolio to start fresh✈️ Taking the Leap to DubaiWhat it really costs to relocate — and why £25K is the minimum bufferLeaving with 14 suitcases and no guarantee of incomeWhy his first 6 months nearly broke him💼 Building a Business in Dubai Real EstateThe difference between “glamorous” Dubai real estate and the actual grindWorking 14-hour days, handling rejection, and building a name from scratchThe deal that changed everything — and pulled him back from quitting📈 Making £100K Months in CommissionThe mindset shift needed to go from chasing rent to chasing multi-million dirham dealsThe value of showing up every day — even when the pipeline is emptyHow social media helped him stand out in a crowded market🧠 Mindset, Struggles & GrowthWhy Dubai is a pressure cooker — and not for everyoneThe emotional toll of starting from zeroEoin’s honest take on mental health, family sacrifice, and staying grounded----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now!----------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Angus Johnston, founder of LetUs, a Glasgow-based letting agency specialising in HMOs. Angus shares his fascinating journey from aspiring investment banker and full-time wedding singer to building a business managing over 120 properties – with a strong focus on the student HMO market in Glasgow.Episode Highlights:🏡 From Accountant to Letting AgentWhy Angus walked away from PwC and investment banking to sing full-timeHow COVID derailed his music career and pushed him into property management📈 Building an HMO Business from the Ground UpHow he started with 7 properties (including his own and his brother’s)Scaling during lockdown with creative hustle and a sharp student focus🔥 The Realities of Running HMOs in ScotlandWhy group lets, not room-by-room, are the standard in Scottish HMO setupsHow legislation, like the PRT, impacts lease structure and managementCommon tenant challenges — from broken vacuums to surprise guests…📊 Crunching the HMO NumbersWhat it actually costs to convert a flat into an HMO (licensing, refurbs, furnishing)Why capital growth in prime locations like Glasgow’s West End makes it worth itThe sweet spot for profitability (hint: 4- and 5-bed flats)🏛️ Licensing & Council ProcessThe reality of 12-month lead times for new HMO licencesKey differences between existing vs. new licence applicationsHow to avoid pitfalls with HMO layout, kitchens, and fire safety🛠️ Maintenance, Void Periods, and Managing ExpectationsBudgeting £1,000+/year in maintenance and planning for 11-month letsManaging expectations with tenants, neighbours, and property owners

In this episode, Nick and Steven sit down with brothers Calum and Connor Clark, two investors who’ve built a thriving, family-run property business across multiple strategies — from buy-to-let and HMOs to commercial conversions and hospitality.Episode Highlights:🏘️ Starting Out in PropertyHow they got into property without quitting their day jobs.The first flip project — and how it led to long-term investingEarly challenges and how they gained experience through hands-on learning💼 Building a Scalable PortfolioFocused on delivering high-quality accommodation in Dundee, Arbroath, and surrounding areasTips for systematising property management in a family-run business🏨 Hospitality & Guesthouse StrategyOperating a 6-bed luxury guesthouse in Arbroath with strong year-round occupancyTheir approach to customer service, direct bookings, and standing out from Airbnb competitionHow hospitality feeds into their overall brand and business🤝 Family Business DynamicsBalancing different skill sets and personalities as siblingsThe importance of communication, defined roles, and mutual respectWhat makes their partnership work — and how they handle conflict----------------------------------------------------------Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price. Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.🤝  Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups.  We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book your place at the networking events here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️  Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.Connect with us on social media:🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our private Facebook group ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📩  Email us:Steven@steven-clark.comNick@arcproperty.uk

In this wide-ranging and entertaining episode, Nick and Steven are joined once again by property investor and entrepreneur Davy Hutton. Known for his straight-talking approach, Davy gives us a raw, honest update on the state of the property market, social inequality, and why the rules are no longer built for the everyday investor.He opens up about mental health, the inspiration behind his new spoken word music album, and why he believes being vulnerable is more powerful than pretending to have it all figured out. Episode Highlights:🧠 Mental Health & IdentityWhy Davy created a spoken word album during lockdownGrowing up with undiagnosed anxiety and how he "faked" his way through social lifeThe dangers of today’s isolated digital world for young menWhy sharing your struggles can open the door for others🏠 Property Market CommentaryWhat’s really happening with supply and demand in ScotlandWhy the West End of Glasgow is still flying, but everywhere else is flatliningA 3-bed property with just one viewer: is buyer sentiment collapsing?The silent shift: from accidental landlords to corporate investors📊 UK Economic RealitiesInflation, council tax, and the slow death of the middle classWhy local authorities and governments are “burst” – and what that means for housingDavy’s take on wealth inequality, tax, and why the 95% are getting squeezedShould the rich pay more tax? Davy’s controversial but clear answer💬 Culture, Politics & SocietyThe illusion of free speech in the age of social media venomHow our tribal need to "belong" drives dangerous thinkingWhy politicians are no longer leaders – just mouthpieces for corporate agendas🐍 Snake Stories & Pet PoliciesFrom lost pythons to rescue chickens – Davy’s home is a full-blown zooWhy he supports tenants having pets – and why the Greens might have a pointHow professional landlords should treat tenants like real people----------------------------------------------------------Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price. Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/------------------------------------Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.🤝  Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups.  We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Book your place at the networking events here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️  Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.Connect with us on social media:🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our private Facebook group ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠🔗 ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on Instagram ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠📩  Email us:Steven@steven-clark.comNick@arcproperty.uk