The Scottish Property Podcast

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven jump on the mics for a no-guest, no-filter conversation covering what they’re seeing right now in the Scottish property market.From landlord sentiment and ADS frustrations, to interest rates, buyer behaviour, tenanted sales, and why so many people are quietly exiting the sector, this episode is a candid market update based on real conversations with investors, agents, and landlords across Scotland.It’s an honest, boots-on-the-ground discussion about what’s actually happening — not what headlines or politicians claim is happening.🎙️ Episode Highlights:📊 What’s Really Happening in the Scottish Property Market-Nick and Steven discuss how the market feels on the ground versus what’s reported in the media.-While demand is still strong in certain areas, confidence among landlords has clearly shifted.-Many investors are sitting on their hands, waiting for clarity around legislation, rates, and long-term direction.🏘️ Why So Many Landlords Are Selling Up-The guys unpack the growing number of landlords choosing to exit — not because property has “failed”, but because the rules keep changing.-ADS, tax pressure, compliance fatigue, and uncertainty are pushing small landlords to cash out.-This is especially true for older landlords who didn’t plan for constant legislative change.💷 Interest Rates, Stress Tests & Affordability-Discussion around how higher interest rates have changed deal analysis.-Stress testing is now non-negotiable — thin-margin deals no longer stack up.-Nick and Steven explain why yield matters more than ever, and why “hoping rates fall” isn’t a strategy.⚠️ The Ongoing ADS Problem-ADS continues to distort the market, especially for portfolio landlords.-The hosts explain how ADS discourages purchases of tenanted and empty homes — exactly the opposite of what’s needed to improve supply.-They highlight how simple policy tweaks could unlock thousands of properties without costing the government much at all.🏠 Selling Tenanted Properties: The Reality-Nick and Steven talk openly about the challenges landlords face when selling with tenants in situ.-Poor presentation, lack of documentation, and unrealistic pricing are common mistakes.-They also explain why specialist agents and realistic expectations are crucial in this part of the market.🧠 Why Education and Adaptability Matter More Than Ever-Those still doing well in the market are the ones adapting — not complaining.-The hosts stress the importance of understanding different strategies, cashflow models, and exit options.-Standing still in today’s market is effectively moving backwards.🗣️ Online Noise vs Real Life-Nick and Steven touch on how social media outrage and comment sections don’t reflect reality.-Most successful investors are quietly getting on with it, adjusting their models, and making rational decisions.-The loudest voices online are often the least active in the market.----------------------------------------------------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 Russel Godferry, a hands-on property investor who shares an honest account of navigating the realities of property investing through changing market conditions, COVID disruption, and shifting tenant behaviour.Russel talks openly about lessons learned from deals that didn’t go to plan, how his strategy evolved over time, and why resilience, adaptability, and realistic expectations matter far more than hype. This episode is a grounded, experience-led conversation that cuts through “Instagram property” and focuses on what actually happens once you’re in the game.🎙️ Episode Highlights🏠 Getting Started in Property — And the Reality CheckRussel shares how he entered property investing with optimism, only to quickly realise that real-world property is far messier than most online success stories suggest.Early assumptions were tested once properties were live, tenants moved in, and unexpected costs appeared.🦠 The Impact of COVID on Property PlansLike many investors, Russel saw plans disrupted almost overnight during COVID.The episode explores how lockdowns, uncertainty, and tenant issues forced rapid decision-making — and why flexibility became essential for survival.📉 When Deals Don’t Perform as ExpectedRussel speaks candidly about properties that underperformed and why projected numbers often fail to reflect reality.Void periods, maintenance, rent collection issues, and management challenges all played a role.🧠 Learning the Hard Way — Then AdaptingRather than quitting, Russel adjusted his approach.The conversation highlights the importance of learning from mistakes, reassessing assumptions, and not blindly copying strategies that worked for others in different markets or cycles.👥 Tenants, Communication & ExpectationsA strong focus is placed on tenant relationships and communication.Russel explains how misunderstandings, poor alignment, or lack of boundaries can quickly turn a “good deal” into a stressful one.📊 Why Numbers on Paper Aren’t the Whole StoryNick and Steven dig into why spreadsheet deals can look brilliant but still fail in practice.Operational reality, personal capacity, and tolerance for stress matter just as much as yield.🗣️ Honesty vs Hype in Property EducationThe episode challenges overly polished property narratives online.Russel’s experience reinforces that property success is rarely linear — and setbacks are normal, not failure.

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Clark Adam, a 69-year-old property investor with one of the most fascinating life stories ever featured on the show. From growing up as a self-confessed “Ned” in Glasgow’s Cardonald, to joining the army at 15, to spending 25 years overseas protecting UK diplomats in some of the world’s most dangerous countries — Clark’s journey is anything but ordinary.After realising his pensions wouldn’t cover retirement, Clark began investing in buy-to-lets in 2008. Fast forward to today, he owns a high-cashflow portfolio in Montrose, earns close to £10,000 per month, and is part of an elite property group where only investors netting over £100k annually are allowed in. His favourite strategies now include serviced accommodation, long-term corporate lets, purchase with delayed completion, and upcoming moves into M&A and hotels.This episode is packed with wisdom, wild stories, and truly unique insights into risk, discipline, and building wealth later in life.🎙️ Episode Highlights🌟 From Glasgow “Ned” to Army CaptainClark grew up in Cardonald as part of the local gang “The Cardi”.Joining the army at 15 became his escape route — providing discipline, structure, and strong role models.He went on to become the Army Junior Squash Champion, played for the army, and was later sponsored for Sandhurst.A 14-week pre-Sandhurst programme taught him etiquette, culture, and public speaking — all funded by the taxpayer.🏘️ Starting Property to Fix a Pension Gap (2008)Clark began buying affordable buy-to-lets in Montrose, identifying early growth potential due to the deep-sea port and new bypass to Aberdeen.Properties were purchased for around £60,000, but early returns (£250–£300/month) weren’t enough — triggering his shift into property education.📚 £40,000+ Invested in Property EducationClark completed high-level training including Simon Zutshi’s masterminds.He believes every penny (plus the travel and hotel costs) has been worth it.Education accelerated his income from accidental landlord……to joining a club where members must net £100k per year.🏠 Serviced Accommodation & 5–10 Year Corporate ContractsServiced accommodation became Clark’s strongest strategy:One 3-bed Montrose property bought for £68,000 now earns £3,500 per month from wind farm contractors.He prefers long-term contracts with contractors, social housing providers, and insurance companies to eliminate tenant turnover.All his properties sit within the same DD10 8 postcode, making management effortless through his own local team.⚡ Why Montrose Is a Hidden Investment GoldmineMontrose is now a major hub for the North Sea wind sector.The construction of 72 new wind farms (Inchcape) brings huge contractor demand.Many workers prefer Clark’s properties over hotels for comfort and space — a major competitive advantage.🔧 Other Strategies: Rent-to-SA, Lease Options & PDCClark has completed:• rent-to-SA• converting BTLs into SA• purchase with delayed completion (PDC) — Scotland’s version of a lease optionWith PDC deals, he controls and refurbishes properties before final purchase.💰 The £100k Club — and Next Goal: £200kClark currently nets around £9,444 per month, slightly below £100k due to rising interest rates.His next milestone?The £200k Club, achieved through scaling serviced accommodation and long-term corporate leases.🏨 Next Moves: Hotels, Blocks of Flats & M&AClark is now eyeing larger acquisitions, including:• hotels• blocks of flats• major M&A opportunities in Scotland and EnglandHe’s inspired by peers already doing multimillion-pound deals.

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Scott sits down with Portolio — Scotland’s specialist estate agency dedicated to selling tenanted properties. Since 2017, Portolio has carved out a unique position in the private rented sector by staying niche, focusing solely on tenant-in-situ sales, and championing transparency across the industry. In this conversation, Portolio breaks down how the market has shifted in 2025, why so many long-term landlords are exiting, and what serious investors truly look for today. From yields 📈 and fixed pricing, to MDR savings 💷, portfolio deals 🏘️ and industry ethics, Portolio gives a clear and honest look at what “fair sale price” means in the current market.🎙️ Episode Highlights🏡 How Portolio Built a Niche in Tenanted Property Sales• Launched in 2017 when tenant-in-situ sales were still uncommon• Built the business by staying niche, consistent and transparent• Focused solely on tenanted sales to build trust with investors and landlords👵➡️👨‍💼 Why Landlords Are Selling & Who’s Buying in 2025• Most landlord exits are driven by retirement after 20–30 years of ownership• Younger, more professional investors are now rapidly taking over the PRS• Buyers increasingly use limited companies to scale portfolios💰 Pricing, Yields & Setting Realistic Expectations• Portolio avoids inflated valuations and uses evidence-based pricing• Long-term stagnant rents can impact achievable yields and sale values• Some properties require rent reviews before a sale can succeed📌 How Fixed Pricing Speeds Up Sales• Fixed price avoids confusion and unrealistic offers• Serious investors act quickly when yields and numbers are clear• Many buyers now expect upper-6% or 7%+ gross yields due to lending conditions🧾 Why Proper Due Diligence Matters• Full compliance documentation is prepared before listing• Buyers get tenancy info, safety certs and rent statements upfront• Prevents surprises like arrears, missing paperwork or access issues----------------------------------------------------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 returning guest Davy Hutton, known for his outspoken views on politics, economics, AI and society. What begins as a conversation on Budget 2025 quickly evolves into one of the broadest and most thought-provoking episodes ever recorded on the podcast.Davy breaks down the 2% tax hit on rental income and dividends, explains why the middle class feels squeezed, and discusses how global corporations and AI are reshaping wealth, work and the future of the property market.🎙️ Episode Highlights🟦 Budget 2025: The Real Impact on LandlordsThe feared 8% rental income tax didn’t appear, but a 2% rise in dividend tax will affect landlords using limited companies.For most small investors, this equates to roughly £700 per year.Electric vehicle incentives are being scaled back, including the loss of 100% first-year allowances and mileage tax changes.Mansion tax proposals pose little risk to Scottish investors.Davy’s verdict: “A nothing-burger budget — lots of noise, minimal change.”🟦 Why the Economy Feels Worse Than the Data SaysMost business owners have rising net worth, yet life feels harder for ordinary people.Middle-class households face invisible pressures through stealth taxes and inflation.Public services are worse despite higher contributions.The UK has spent nearly two decades in economic stagnation, draining energy and optimism.🟦 Corporations, Power, and the Real Drivers of InequalityGlobal corporations avoid tax at levels no individual could.Tech giants influence public opinion through social media algorithms and news ownership.Anger is directed at “easy targets” like landlords instead of corporations.Governments lack the power to meaningfully challenge corporate dominance.🟦 Scottish Property Market OverviewScotland has cooled from 10% over Home Report to around Home Report value.Market correction is gradual rather than a crash.The high-end market (£1m+) is softening significantly.Glasgow rents have plateaued and fallen slightly in some areas.Expected interest rate cuts should stabilise pricing through 2025.----------------------------------------------------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 John Blackwood, Chief Executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), who has spent nearly 25 years representing landlords across Scotland.John brings unparalleled insight into the private rented sector (PRS), the political pressures landlords face, and the complex legislative landscape shaping housing today. From rent controls to the Housing Scotland Bill, ADS reform, empty homes, and the moral debate surrounding private renting, this conversation offers one of the most balanced and honest breakdowns of Scotland’s housing challenges — directly from someone on the front line.Episode Highlights:🌟 Changing Perceptions of LandlordsJohn reflects on how society’s view of landlords has shifted dramatically over generations.Renting was once seen as responsible long-term planning — now landlords are often unfairly painted as “greedy” or “immoral”.He emphasises that 95% of Scottish landlords own just one or two properties and are ordinary working people, not large-scale investors .🏛️ Why the Scottish Association of Landlords Was FormedSAL was created after early HMO legislation left landlords feeling unsupported and unheard.The Scottish Government itself requested a single representative body to balance discussions around landlord and tenant rights .SAL’s mission has always been to represent both sides fairly, not favour landlords.⚠️ Challenges Facing Today’s LandlordsThe sector is experiencing legislative overload, with continuous rule changes forcing many small landlords out of the market .Financial pressures are rising: tax changes, potential National Insurance on rental income, and increasing compliance demands.John highlights how the constant policy churn creates instability and discourages investment.📉 Rent Controls, Supply Shortages & Market ImpactJohn discusses the rent freeze/rent cap and the unintended consequences it created.Evidence from Zoopla and international studies shows rent controls:Reduce supplyDeter investorsUltimately increase rents — exactly what happened in ScotlandWith controls now lifted, rents are beginning to stabilise as the market self-corrects.⚖️ The Landlords vs Tenants NarrativeJohn expresses frustration with the media and political framing of landlords as “the bad guys”.Argues that landlords and tenants want the same core things:Safe, warm, affordable homesGood relationshipsStability in the PRSSays the current political climate encourages division instead of solutions .🏘️ Empty Homes, ADS & Policy That’s Worsening SupplyJohn highlights the flaws in Additional Dwelling Supplement (ADS):Penalises landlords purchasing empty or uninhabitable homesDiscourages buying tenanted propertiesSlows down opportunities to bring homes back into useProposes simple reforms: exempting purchases of empty homes and rented homes from ADS — a cheap, immediate supply solution.🏛️ The Housing Scotland Bill & Political IdeologyDiscussion around how the Bill is influenced by ideology rather than evidence.John shares experiences with politicians who claim that being a landlord is inherently “immoral” .Emphasises that removing landlords doesn’t solve the housing emergency — it makes it worse.

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 DisciplineGrew up in Galashiels facing violence, instability, and school expulsionsJoined the Royal Regiment of Scotland, gaining structure, discipline, and resilienceArmy experience shaped his mindset and approach to business💥 The Accident That Changed EverythingSuffered a major railway accident while working as an electrical engineerForced into recovery, triggering a life reset and deep focus on long-term goalsUsed the setback to pivot fully into property🏡 Building Retrofit Properties & Discovering SABought his first properties in his early 20sLearned SA through self-study, research, and hands-on experienceNow operates high-performing SA units achieving £12k–£13k in peak months📑 Navigating SA Licensing & ComplianceExpert at securing SA licences across Glasgow, Edinburgh, and MidlothianHelps investors avoid common mistakes in planning and complianceChallenges councils when their own rules are unclear or applied incorrectly🏘️ Scaling to 13 Units & Major DealsOwns a mix of SA, HMOs, and buy-to-letsCompleted a £1.7m building purchase with Kyle Black, now valued higherGrowing a management business, strengthening partnerships, and planning future aparthotel projectsScott’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 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