The Scottish Property Podcast Risking 58K on Credit Cards to Build a Portfolio with Mark Downie
In this episode, Nick and Steven are joined by property investor and construction professional Mark Downie, who shares his incredible journey from working on mega-projects in Saudi Arabia to building a property portfolio back home in Scotland.
Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale, this episode offers a raw and honest look at what it really takes to build a portfolio while working abroad.
Episode Highlights
🏗️ Mark’s Journey: Construction & Property Investing
From civil engineering in Scotland to managing billion-dollar infrastructure projects in Saudi Arabia
How he transformed an 8-bed Victorian villa in Falkirk as his first big project
🏠 Portfolio Building: Buy-to-Let & Flips
Scaling to 11 properties in under a year with deals in Aberdeen and Falkirk
Using credit cards and investor finance to fund deposits and renovations
His first successful flip and how off-market deals helped him get started
📉 Lessons from a Failed Serviced Accommodation
The painful £18k loss on a Bathgate SA due to planning rejection
Why it’s critical to have multiple exit strategies and check licensing rules early
The differences between SA rules in Aberdeen vs West Lothian
💷 Financing & Lender Challenges
Tips for expats navigating UK mortgages while living abroad
How Mark structures deals for better tax efficiency and cash flow
Refinancing wins and losses — and dealing with down valuations
🌍 Saudi Arabia Mega Projects & Life Abroad
Inside the $500 billion NEOM “Line” project and what it’s like building in the desert
Why working abroad offers tax advantages—but comes with family sacrifices
Mark’s plan to return home, scale to 30-50 properties, and support other investors with project management services
Mark’s story is a powerful example of resilience, risk-taking, and real-world property investing. Whether you’re working offshore, considering SA, or looking for ways to scale, this episode is packed with practical lessons and cautionary tales. Get the full picture on building wealth through property while navigating the challenges of today’s market.
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