In this episode, Nick and Steven sit down with Scott McFarlane, property investor, serviced accommodation specialist, and founder of Retrofit Properties. Scott opens up about his journey from a difficult childhood to military service, railway engineering, a life-changing accident, and eventually scaling a thriving SA management company and a growing property portfolio.
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
🌟 From a Tough Start to Army Discipline
Grew up in Galashiels facing violence, instability, and school expulsions
Joined the Royal Regiment of Scotland, gaining structure, discipline, and resilience
Army experience shaped his mindset and approach to business
💥 The Accident That Changed Everything
Suffered a major railway accident while working as an electrical engineer
Forced into recovery, triggering a life reset and deep focus on long-term goals
Used the setback to pivot fully into property
🏡 Building Retrofit Properties & Discovering SA
Bought his first properties in his early 20s
Learned SA through self-study, research, and hands-on experience
Now operates high-performing SA units achieving £12k–£13k in peak months
📑 Navigating SA Licensing & Compliance
Expert at securing SA licences across Glasgow, Edinburgh, and Midlothian
Helps investors avoid common mistakes in planning and compliance
Challenges councils when their own rules are unclear or applied incorrectly
🏘️ Scaling to 13 Units & Major Deals
Owns a mix of SA, HMOs, and buy-to-lets
Completed a £1.7m building purchase with Kyle Black, now valued higher
Growing a management business, strengthening partnerships, and planning future aparthotel projects
Scott’s story is raw, honest, and packed with lessons — from overcoming adversity to navigating licensing, building strategic partnerships, and managing 13 units (including HMOs, buy-to-lets, and high-performing SAs). He also shares the realities of dealing with councils, neighbours, compliance challenges, and the rapid growth of his management business.
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 Career
Grew 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 Leave
While 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 Property
Bought 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 Deals
Reinvested 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 Scotland
Actively 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 & Growth
Opens 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 Vision
Currently 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 & Lessons
Both 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 Update
Zoopla 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 Update
Currently 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 Insights
Rightmove 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 Policy
Discussion 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 Overview
Inflation: 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 Highlights
From Milk Rounds to Millionaire Mindset
Grew up in Shotts, North Lanarkshire, and left school without qualifications
Worked multiple jobs from a young age — including food delivery, labouring on sites, and driving taxis
Bought a small local milk delivery round at age 23 with around 350 customers
Scaled the business into a Scotland-wide operation with five depots, 85 staff, and 60 delivery vehicles
Focused on reusable glass bottles and local service to stand out from supermarket competition
Introduced innovations such as direct debit payments and door-to-door canvassing, dramatically boosting efficiency and revenue
Building and Exiting the Dairy Empire
Grown organically over more than a decade through acquisitions and community-focused marketing
Expanded across the Central Belt, Perth, and Aberdeen
Operated 24/7 with a full management structure including operations, HR, and sales teams
Introduced a delivery charge model that significantly increased profits
Successfully exited the business through multiple sales to other dairies
Transitioned from daily operations to pursuing new ventures and a better work–life balance
Starting Over in Property
Entered property investment after selling the dairy business, looking for a new challenge
Faced early setbacks:
Lost £40–£50k on a piece of land due to flood risk oversight
Lost £35k on a hotel deal with offshore ownership complications
Joined Steven’s property training to build knowledge, structure, and network with other investors
Determined to grow his property business using the same grit and determination that built his previous success
First Major Project – Arbroath Townhouse
Purchased a six-bedroom townhouse for £71,000
Initially budgeted £70,000 for the refurb, but final spend reached £150,000
Fully renovated and upgraded with quality finishes and modern interiors
Configured for use as both a Serviced Accommodation (SA) and HMO
Located near Arbroath Harbour — ideal for contractors, large families, and holidaymakers
Expected nightly rate: £150–£200, with projected annual income of £40k–£50k
From 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!
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 Sales
Grew up in the East End of Glasgow, born in Shettleston
Chose a civil engineering apprenticeship over university
Faced several redundancies during the 2007–2008 financial crash
Transitioned into commission-only sales, learning resilience and people skills
Worked in shopping centres selling gas and electricity contracts, then moved to Sky, excelling in telesales and leadership
🏡 Breaking into Property
First exposure came through a quick-sale estate agency role
Later joined a major auction and property buying company, learning the full process of valuations, negotiations, and acquisitions
Developed strong communication and listening skills — the key to converting off-market leads
Spent years understanding vendor motivations, negotiation strategies, and the ethics of buying directly
💼 Building My Local Property Buyer
Founded My Local Property Buyer, specialising in direct-to-vendor deals across Scotland
Balances multiple income streams — property flips, assisted sales, and sourcing fees
Works with trusted partners including auction houses and ethical investors
Operates with transparency, ensuring fair offers and honest communication with sellers
Spends £1,500–£5,000 per month on online marketing to generate consistent off-market leads
🔥 Deals, Risks & Lessons
North Berwick Flip: Purchased at £138k, valued at nearly double — discovered bankruptcy days before completion and navigated the legal and financial risks successfully
Assisted 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 seller
Lanark Country House: Bought for £100k, invested £180k in refurbishment, expected to sell for £425k–£500k
Kilmacolm Commercial Conversion: Transformed a former beauty salon into two luxury flats — exploring refinancing or serviced accommodation due to slower sales
⚖️ Ethics & Reputation in Quick Sales
Strong focus on honesty and transparency with vulnerable sellers
Condemns companies exploiting people in financial distress
Works alongside trusted solicitors and partners like Michelle Wales to maintain professional integrity
Believes small, fair profits build longer-term success and repeat business
Encourages offering sellers multiple routes — direct sale, auction, or assisted sale
📈 Scaling & Strategy
Portfolio of around 16 properties, including buy-to-lets, flips, and commercial-to-residential conversions
Uses bridging finance, investor loans, and recycled profits to fund projects
Works closely with business partner John, who manages refurbishments and trades
Keeps operations lean, leveraging unencumbered assets for cash flow flexibility
Balances short-term profits with sustainable business growth
💬 Mindset & Motivation
Not motivated by flash or status — focused on family and freedom
Values work–life balance after becoming a father
Keeps a grounded lifestyle despite success — recently upgraded from his Ford Focus only for practicality
Believes 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 Hospitality
Growing up in Cheshire in a working-class family
Building a strong work ethic from her parents’ example
Spending over 20 years in hospitality, including six years running a restaurant in Portugal
Managing 67 pubs as a Regional Manager for Wetherspoons before leaving corporate life
💼 Finding Purpose After Corporate Burnout
Leaving her corporate role after a health setback and lack of support
Becoming CEO of a Coca-Cola–funded non-profit in Dundee
Helping thousands of women and micro-businesses out of poverty
Transitioning naturally into business coaching and launching MDA Business
🏡 Entering the Property World
Completing property training in January and buying her first property in April
Partnering with her brother, Paul, who now manages over 40 viewings a month
Focusing on Serviced Accommodation (SA) and Aparthotels as her main strategy
Building a business model that generates high cash flow and long-term financial freedom
📈 Growth, Strategy & Challenges
Setting a goal of 200 keys (units/beds) to achieve true financial independence
Raising private capital with a minimum £100,000 investment threshold
Avoiding small Buy-to-Lets in favour of scalable, cash-flowing SA units
Overcoming one of her toughest weeks in property — losing a deal, investor, and remortgage all in one day
Navigating short-term let licensing challenges in Scotland and rising council tax costs
💬 Mindset & Motivation
Using multiple business and mindset coaches to stay focused and resilient
Managing 12–14 hour workdays with energy and purpose
Maintaining perspective through movement, conversation, and mindset work
Planning 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!
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 Entrepreneur
Juggling life as a stay-at-home mother of four
Facing financial pressure after divorce and needing to rebuild
First steps into business with a ladies’ gym franchise and traditional estate agency work
🏡 Discovering Keller Williams
Spotting the KW model as a low-cost, low-risk entry into self-employment
Starting as a self-employed agent in 2017/2018
Balancing financial independence with family flexibility
📈 Scaling with the KW Business Model
Returning in 2020 to lead the Glasgow market center
How KW provides training, support, and systems for agents to grow their own businesses
Why she believes the traditional estate agency model is broken
The rapid growth from zero to over 80 agents across Scotland
🚀 Keller Williams Scotland Today
Achieving the five-year goal of becoming a separate region in January 2025
Building a business that thrives in towns and villages, not just big cities
Recruiting agents from non-traditional backgrounds
Placing 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 Life
Growing up around property thanks to her father’s renovation projects
Pursuing a corporate career as a chartered management accountant
Realising she didn’t fit the corporate mould and wanting more flexibility
🏡 Getting Started in Property
Inspired by a colleague with 13 properties and Homes Under the Hammer
Investing £15,000 in training and waiting a year before buying her first deal
Why she believes education was worth the investment
🎯 Building a Vision & Portfolio
Setting her first goal: 12 properties to leave her job and focus on family life
The power of vision boards to stay motivated and productive
Growing her portfolio with her husband, including four properties in St Andrews
🔑 Lessons & Advice
Do your due diligence before investing in training programmes
When planning for retirement, set your financial target — then add two more properties
Why involving your partner can strengthen your property journey
🚀 Current Focus & Future Plans
Working on flips and managing an HMO
Feeling like she’s “drifting” without a strong new vision
Setting 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 Hustle
💻 Building an SEO Business
🏡 Property Investing Journey
🤖 AI & The Future of Business
From 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 Profession
Discovering photography at school and turning a hobby into a career
Winning national and international awards in landscape photography
Moving into property photography with McEwan Fraser Legal
🏡 Building a Property Media Business
Gaining experience with estate agents before launching his own company
Starting out during COVID while facing tough restrictions
Growing a team of freelancers and scaling the business across Scotland
📸 Why Property Photography Matters
How professional photos, videos, and floorplans boost sales and branding
Case studies showing the difference high-quality marketing can make
Breaking down packages, costs, and the value delivered to agents and investors
💬 Property Investing & Personal Growth
Using his media business profits to buy his first rental property
Training with Darren & Jillian Green and planning future HMOs and SA units
----------------------------------------------------
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 Over
From a successful career in modelling and acting to property investment
Leaving her ex-partner’s business and choosing to start again from scratch
Building confidence and resilience through personal and professional setbacks
🏡 Launching Kelvin Grove Property Sourcing
Starting her own business during the COVID-19 pandemic
How she found her first clients and attracted investors
Structuring her sourcing and refurb management fees
🛠️ Design, Branding & Refurbs
Why she believes in bold interiors that make properties stand out
Lessons learned from challenging renovation projects
Using social media and personal branding to grow trust and credibility
💬 Personal Life & Growth
Walking away from financial security to protect her independence
Balancing business growth with her personal journey after separation
Her 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 Market
Dundee rents are down 9.9% – the only Scottish city to see a drop
Why Neil sees this as a market correction after rents became unaffordable
Despite falling rents, yields for investors remain strong
🎓 Impact of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Growth of PBSA is reshaping Dundee’s HMO market
Surplus of student accommodation, with more still being proposed
Why foreign students prefer PBSA for flexibility and bundled costs
🏡 UK & Scottish Property Sales
UK house prices: down 1.3% monthly, up 0.3% year-on-year
Scotland outperforming the rest of the UK with 2.6% growth over 12 months
Surge in Dundee first-time buyers boosting local demand
💰 Government Taxes & Policy
LBTT (Land and Building Transaction Tax) as a major barrier to downsizing
ADS (Additional Dwelling Supplement) at 8% deterring many small investors
Record £714m in Scottish property tax revenue, with ADS contributing 31%
📊 Landlord Trends & Market Shifts
One in three landlords considering exiting the market
Private rental sector still growing, driven by professional portfolio landlords
Self-managed landlords struggling with legislation, benefiting letting agents
⚖️ Potential New Tax – NI Contributions on Rental Income
Government considering an 8% National Insurance levy on rental income
Would apply to personally held properties, raising £2.18bn
What this could mean for landlords and the wider market
The 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 Success
Losing her first business in the 2008 crash and facing £80,000 personal debt
Investing £22,000 in mentorship despite fear – and making it back in her first deals
Starting with social housing buy-to-lets before scaling into HMOs in Birmingham and Liverpool
🏨 Building the Archibald Hotel Collection
Why she skipped serviced accommodation and went straight to aparthotels
First deal: converting a B&B outside Liverpool into an 11-bed aparthotel, opening just as COVID hit
Launching a boutique, staffless hotel brand named after her late dog, Archibald
🏗️ Edinburgh Projects – Triumphs & Challenges
Stafford Street: buying a derelict office, battling vigilante opposition, tram contribution confusion, and a £1.5m refurb that resulted in a valuation just under £4m
John’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 & AI
Running staffless hotels with smart locks and digital guest access
Using AI receptionists and chatbots to handle enquiries and bookings
Dividing roles with her husband Nick – she leads acquisitions and development, he runs systems and operations
🛋️ Designing for Premium Value
Why boutique, vintage interiors are core to her business model
Working with designers to create unique looks that command higher rates
Investing heavily in interiors (£170k on Stafford Street, £250k on John’s Place) to elevate guest experience
If 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 Business
Growing up around his father’s Glasgow estate agency
Watching the family firm lose control after rapid expansion
Key lessons on ownership, shareholding, and capitalisation
💼 From O’Neils to Newton
Founding O’Neils Lettings in 1995 and hustling for growth
Selling the business in 2000 for ~£750k
Why factoring, with its long-term recurring revenue, became his focus
📊 Scaling Newton Property Management
How Newton grew to 40,000 properties and ~85 staff across 4 offices
The “30/30/30” profit model that funded growth and acquisitions
Buying competitors at rising multiples – and why Newton is “not for sale”
🏠 Factoring, Reputation & Regulation
Why factoring has a bad public image and how Newton tackles it
Robust credit control and chasing arrears through debt collection/legal routes
Calls for stricter regulation and annual audits of client accounts
Challenges with under-resourced tribunals
🌍 Culture, Leadership & Vision
Returning from Bali to rebuild service quality after rapid growth
Creating a people-first company culture: loans, therapy, office lunches, stocked fridges
His ambition for Newton to be “the best employer in the country”
📈 Market Views & Next Steps
Why Stephen is bullish on Aberdeen and sees “Park Circus prices” potential
Reflections on being a manager, not a landlord
Balancing 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 Entrepreneur
Growing up in Croydon before moving to Scotland
Leaving school at 16 to become a plumbing & heating engineer
How his trade background became the foundation for his property journey
💡 Early Side Hustles & First Property Steps
Amazon FBA, crypto, and reselling – lessons learned from failed and modest successes
Investing in mentorship and paying £6k for property training at age 20
Buying his first flat, learning about yields, cashflow, and tax pitfalls
🔨 Flips, Refurbs, and Learning the Hard Way
Turning a heating job lead into a profitable flip in just a few months
The Paisley project: overspending, travel challenges, and why he’d never do it again
Building credibility and leads through his refurbishment business
🏠 Mastering the Assisted Sale Strategy
How assisted sales work and why they benefit sellers and investors
Legal safeguards: charges on title, option-to-buy clauses, and ensuring all owners agree
Case studies of successful assisted sales – including inherited properties
🤝 Collaboration & Raising Finance
Partnering with Kyle White and the Scope Property team to scale projects
Raising £275K in two days through networking and past clients
Leveraging other people’s skills and networks for bigger deals
📈 Scaling Up & Diversifying
Building a pipeline including flips, buy-to-lets, serviced accommodation, and commercial conversions
Why collaboration beats competition in the Scottish property market
Using social proof and track record to win trust with sellers and investors
If 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 capital
The reality of scaling serviced accommodation pre-licensing
How partnering with local councils created a more stable, long-term income stream
Breakdown of profit margins, costs, and risk mitigation
Lessons learned from losing £130,000 with a failed expansion into England
The importance of investor trust and business resilience
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 Months
200+ properties sourced since 2023
80+ units bought for himself and investors
£900K+ in sourcing fees in 2024 alone
💸 Behind the Sourcing Business
What it really takes to build a high-volume sourcing company
How Kris finds deals, works with investors, and structures JV agreements
Why transparency and systems are everything in this space
🔧 Builder & Refurb Management
Managing multiple build teams across the UK
Dealing with delays, pricing issues, and communication breakdowns
The toll this takes when you’re running at full speed
🧠 Mindset, Burnout & Shifting Gears
Why Kris is stepping back from the chaos to focus on sustainability
The mental pressure of scaling too fast
His new focus on paying down debt and holding long-term assets
🏢 Letting Agency Launch: Stanley Property Shop
Why Kris started his own agency
The benefits of bringing property management in-house
Challenges of operating differently from traditional agents
⚠️ The Sourcing Industry – Red Flags & Real Talk
What Kris thinks is wrong with many property sourcers today
Key advice for anyone buying from sourcing agents or auction deals
How to spot value—and avoid the fluff
Now, 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 Clarity
Losing his job at BlackRock and the moment his health collapsed
How being in debt and housebound pushed him to take control of his finances
Starting from scratch after moving to the UK with just £500
📈 Wealth Building Through Property
Building a 9-property buy-to-let portfolio with a BRR strategy
What he looks for in deals: cashflow, long-term demand, and sustainable lending
Why he pivoted away from short-term lets in Edinburgh
📊 The Bigger Wealth Picture
Why Taimur is just as passionate about stocks and pensions as property
Understanding compound growth and why time in the market is more important than timing the market
How small monthly investments add up to millions over time
🧠 Mindset & Financial Strategy
Why more money doesn’t solve money problems—discipline does
How to think like an investor, not a speculator
The difference between income, wealth, and financial freedom
🧰 Tips for New Investors
Don’t chase cashflow alone—look for balanced returns
Invest in learning, not just property
Think long-term and avoid get-rich-quick traps
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.
----------------------------------------------------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
🚀 Careers in Property
📞 Inside Prime Property
📊 Self-Employed Estate Agency Debate
👥 Recruiting and Building Teams
This 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