The Scottish Property Podcast

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Adam Williams — former British Army soldier turned property investor and sales professional. Adam’s story is one of resilience, discipline, and personal growth. After serving nine years in the army and being deployed around the world, he made the leap into property — building an exciting new career and completing multiple successful projects in just over a year.From the battlefield to the boardroom, Adam shares the lessons he’s learned about leadership, mindset, and the power of taking action — proving that with hard work and humility, anyone can reinvent their life through property.🎙️ Episode Highlights💂 From Army Life to Civilian CareerGrew up in Glasgow and joined the British Army at 18, serving in the infantry for nine years.Completed deployments in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Kenya, gaining leadership, adaptability, and resilience.Describes how army life shaped his mindset — the ability to work under pressure, follow structure, and lead by example.Decided to leave the military to prioritise family and create a more stable lifestyle.👨‍👩‍👧 Life Lessons & Motivation to LeaveWhile serving abroad, Adam missed significant family milestones.The turning point came when he found out he was going to be a father — this pushed him to seek a career with purpose and flexibility.Admits the transition from military to civilian life was difficult, but it gave him the hunger to find something new and meaningful.🏠 Discovering PropertyBought his first flat in Glasgow while still in the army, renting it out while deployed.This first experience opened his eyes to the power of passive income and property investing.Started reading, networking, and attending events — including the Scottish Property Podcast training sessions.Learned that property isn’t just about buying houses, but about building relationships and creating solutions for sellers and investors.🏗️ Flips, Joint Ventures & Creative DealsReinvested profits into joint ventures and property flips with David Smart.Completed standout projects such as:The Ninja Air Fryer Flip – a creative and profitable refurbishment.The Phone Booth Flip – a unique transformation of a neglected property into a stylish modern home.Achieved strong profits of £35,000–£40,000 per project, reinvesting back into new opportunities.Highlights the importance of transparency and shared vision when working with JV partners.🏚️ Working with Empty Homes ScotlandActively collaborates with the Empty Homes Partnership Scheme to bring long-abandoned properties back into use.Builds strong relationships with council officers and local stakeholders to source off-market deals.Focused on creating win-win outcomes — helping owners solve problems while revitalising communities.Proves that property can be both profitable and purpose-driven.⚖️ Balancing Family, Work & GrowthOpens up about the challenges of balancing 12-hour workdays with family life.Strives to stay grounded and present with his partner and daughter while scaling his business.Shares how discipline from his military days helps him stay focused and structured, even in a demanding sales environment.🏡 Future Goals & Long-Term VisionCurrently focused on flips and sales but plans to build a buy-to-let portfolio for long-term wealth and stability.At just 29 years old, Adam is committed to learning, growing, and reinvesting profits into future projects.Aims to mentor other ex-servicemen and aspiring investors looking to transition into property.----------------------------------------------------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 are back together for the November 2025 Market Update — discussing everything from their recent trip to Dubai to the latest UK housing data, rental trends, and budget rumours that could shake up the property market.From reflections on life abroad to concerns over government tax policy, this episode dives deep into what’s really happening across Scotland’s property landscape — with candid insights, real-life examples, and a few laughs along the way.🎙️ Episode Highlights:🌴 Dubai Reflections: Life, Lifestyle & LessonsBoth Nick and Steven coincidentally ended up staying in Dubai at the same time — just a few doors apart.Reflections on Dubai’s appeal for entrepreneurs: sunshine, safety, and tax benefits.The downsides: relentless heat, heavy traffic, and a lack of community or “soul”.Both agree that despite the hype, Scotland still feels like home — valuing fresh air, space, and local connection over tax breaks.🏡 Scottish Housing Market UpdateZoopla reports: buyer demand down 8% year-on-year, sales agreed down 3%, marking the first decline in two years.Scotland bucks the trend, with sales up 3% and house price inflation steady at 2%.Glasgow up 2.1%, Edinburgh up 1.6% year-on-year.Signs of a slower market rather than a crash — more cautious buyers and longer sale times.Average selling time now 37 days, up 10%, showing steady but slower movement.🔨 Steven’s Property Sales UpdateCurrently selling three renovated cottages, each around the £200k–£240k price point.Despite strong locations and quality finishes, sales slower than expected.Common feedback: EPC ratings, minor snagging, and general buyer caution.Example of real-time challenges facing property flippers in a softening market.Highlights the importance of timing, presentation, and patience in a cooling climate.🏘️ Rental Market InsightsRightmove rental tracker:Average UK rent outside London at a record £1,385 per month, up 1.5% in Q3.In Scotland, rents are still rising but at a slower pace.Tenant demand down 14%, while supply up 9% — more choice for renters.Landlords urged to redecorate and refresh properties to stay competitive.Quality homes still rent quickly; tired stock lags behind.Strongest demand for rentals under £1,000 per month — affordability is key.💼 Budget Rumours & Government PolicyDiscussion ahead of the November 23rd UK Budget, with rumours of:VAT threshold dropping from £85k to £30k — could hit small tradesmen and drive up refurb costs.Income tax increase from 20% to 22% (England only).National Insurance on rental income (8%) — potential game-changer for landlords in personal names.Capital Gains Tax on main homes worth £1.5m+ — targeting the ultra-wealthy.Nick and Steven discuss how these could trigger a mass landlord exodus, reduce supply, and hurt the rental market.Concern that government policies are anti-business and anti-growth, discouraging investment in the UK.📈 Economic OverviewInflation: steady around 3.8%.Interest rates: held at 4% by the Bank of England.Mortgage rates easing slightly, providing some relief for buyers.UK economy flat, with minimal growth heading into winter.Sentiment: cautious optimism — no crash, but slower movement and more scrutiny on deals.----------------------------------------------------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, Nick and Steven sit down with Wullie Thomson — entrepreneur, former dairy business owner, and now full-time property investor. Willie shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings in Shotts to building one of Scotland’s largest independent milk delivery businesses before moving into the property world.🎙️ Episode HighlightsFrom Milk Rounds to Millionaire MindsetGrew up in Shotts, North Lanarkshire, and left school without qualificationsWorked multiple jobs from a young age — including food delivery, labouring on sites, and driving taxisBought a small local milk delivery round at age 23 with around 350 customersScaled the business into a Scotland-wide operation with five depots, 85 staff, and 60 delivery vehiclesFocused on reusable glass bottles and local service to stand out from supermarket competitionIntroduced innovations such as direct debit payments and door-to-door canvassing, dramatically boosting efficiency and revenueBuilding and Exiting the Dairy EmpireGrown organically over more than a decade through acquisitions and community-focused marketingExpanded across the Central Belt, Perth, and AberdeenOperated 24/7 with a full management structure including operations, HR, and sales teamsIntroduced a delivery charge model that significantly increased profitsSuccessfully exited the business through multiple sales to other dairiesTransitioned from daily operations to pursuing new ventures and a better work–life balanceStarting Over in PropertyEntered property investment after selling the dairy business, looking for a new challengeFaced early setbacks:Lost £40–£50k on a piece of land due to flood risk oversightLost £35k on a hotel deal with offshore ownership complicationsJoined Steven’s property training to build knowledge, structure, and network with other investorsDetermined to grow his property business using the same grit and determination that built his previous successFirst Major Project – Arbroath TownhousePurchased a six-bedroom townhouse for £71,000Initially budgeted £70,000 for the refurb, but final spend reached £150,000Fully renovated and upgraded with quality finishes and modern interiorsConfigured for use as both a Serviced Accommodation (SA) and HMOLocated near Arbroath Harbour — ideal for contractors, large families, and holidaymakersExpected nightly rate: £150–£200, with projected annual income of £40k–£50kFrom driving taxis and delivering Chinese food as a teenager to managing 85 staff and five depots across Scotland, Willie’s story is one of relentless work ethic, resilience, and reinvention. Now, after exiting the dairy industry, he’s applying the same principles of growth and efficiency to property development and investing.--------------------------------------------------- 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 David Stewart — property investor, developer, and founder of My Local Property Buyer. David shares his journey from a career in civil engineering and commission-only sales to becoming one of Scotland’s most experienced direct-to-vendor specialists, flipping properties with six-figure profits and running a successful off-market property business.From being made redundant multiple times to building a thriving property brand, David’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and integrity. He opens up about the realities of the quick-sale industry, the ethics behind vendor negotiations, and the lessons learned from fires, floods, and bankruptcies along the way.🎙️ Episode Highlights🌟 From Civil Engineering to SalesGrew up in the East End of Glasgow, born in ShettlestonChose a civil engineering apprenticeship over universityFaced several redundancies during the 2007–2008 financial crashTransitioned into commission-only sales, learning resilience and people skillsWorked in shopping centres selling gas and electricity contracts, then moved to Sky, excelling in telesales and leadership🏡 Breaking into PropertyFirst exposure came through a quick-sale estate agency roleLater joined a major auction and property buying company, learning the full process of valuations, negotiations, and acquisitionsDeveloped strong communication and listening skills — the key to converting off-market leadsSpent years understanding vendor motivations, negotiation strategies, and the ethics of buying directly💼 Building My Local Property BuyerFounded My Local Property Buyer, specialising in direct-to-vendor deals across ScotlandBalances multiple income streams — property flips, assisted sales, and sourcing feesWorks with trusted partners including auction houses and ethical investorsOperates with transparency, ensuring fair offers and honest communication with sellersSpends £1,500–£5,000 per month on online marketing to generate consistent off-market leads🔥 Deals, Risks & LessonsNorth Berwick Flip: Purchased at £138k, valued at nearly double — discovered bankruptcy days before completion and navigated the legal and financial risks successfullyAssisted Sale Fire Damage: A refurbishment project that caught fire due to a nearby caravan blaze — still turned a profit of over £20k and delivered a positive outcome for the sellerLanark Country House: Bought for £100k, invested £180k in refurbishment, expected to sell for £425k–£500kKilmacolm Commercial Conversion: Transformed a former beauty salon into two luxury flats — exploring refinancing or serviced accommodation due to slower sales⚖️ Ethics & Reputation in Quick SalesStrong focus on honesty and transparency with vulnerable sellersCondemns companies exploiting people in financial distressWorks alongside trusted solicitors and partners like Michelle Wales to maintain professional integrityBelieves small, fair profits build longer-term success and repeat businessEncourages offering sellers multiple routes — direct sale, auction, or assisted sale📈 Scaling & StrategyPortfolio of around 16 properties, including buy-to-lets, flips, and commercial-to-residential conversionsUses bridging finance, investor loans, and recycled profits to fund projectsWorks closely with business partner John, who manages refurbishments and tradesKeeps operations lean, leveraging unencumbered assets for cash flow flexibilityBalances short-term profits with sustainable business growth💬 Mindset & MotivationNot motivated by flash or status — focused on family and freedomValues work–life balance after becoming a fatherKeeps a grounded lifestyle despite success — recently upgraded from his Ford Focus only for practicalityBelieves real success in property is built on patience, ethics, and persistence

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