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.