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