The Scottish Property Podcast

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 BusinessGrowing up around his father’s Glasgow estate agencyWatching the family firm lose control after rapid expansionKey lessons on ownership, shareholding, and capitalisation💼 From O’Neils to NewtonFounding O’Neils Lettings in 1995 and hustling for growthSelling the business in 2000 for ~£750kWhy factoring, with its long-term recurring revenue, became his focus📊 Scaling Newton Property ManagementHow Newton grew to 40,000 properties and ~85 staff across 4 officesThe “30/30/30” profit model that funded growth and acquisitionsBuying competitors at rising multiples – and why Newton is “not for sale”🏠 Factoring, Reputation & RegulationWhy factoring has a bad public image and how Newton tackles itRobust credit control and chasing arrears through debt collection/legal routesCalls for stricter regulation and annual audits of client accountsChallenges with under-resourced tribunals🌍 Culture, Leadership & VisionReturning from Bali to rebuild service quality after rapid growthCreating a people-first company culture: loans, therapy, office lunches, stocked fridgesHis ambition for Newton to be “the best employer in the country”📈 Market Views & Next StepsWhy Stephen is bullish on Aberdeen and sees “Park Circus prices” potentialReflections on being a manager, not a landlordBalancing 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 EntrepreneurGrowing up in Croydon before moving to ScotlandLeaving school at 16 to become a plumbing & heating engineerHow his trade background became the foundation for his property journey💡 Early Side Hustles & First Property StepsAmazon FBA, crypto, and reselling – lessons learned from failed and modest successesInvesting in mentorship and paying £6k for property training at age 20Buying his first flat, learning about yields, cashflow, and tax pitfalls🔨 Flips, Refurbs, and Learning the Hard WayTurning a heating job lead into a profitable flip in just a few monthsThe Paisley project: overspending, travel challenges, and why he’d never do it againBuilding credibility and leads through his refurbishment business🏠 Mastering the Assisted Sale StrategyHow assisted sales work and why they benefit sellers and investorsLegal safeguards: charges on title, option-to-buy clauses, and ensuring all owners agreeCase studies of successful assisted sales – including inherited properties🤝 Collaboration & Raising FinancePartnering with Kyle White and the Scope Property team to scale projectsRaising £275K in two days through networking and past clientsLeveraging other people’s skills and networks for bigger deals📈 Scaling Up & DiversifyingBuilding a pipeline including flips, buy-to-lets, serviced accommodation, and commercial conversionsWhy collaboration beats competition in the Scottish property marketUsing social proof and track record to win trust with sellers and investorsIf 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 capitalThe reality of scaling serviced accommodation pre-licensingHow partnering with local councils created a more stable, long-term income streamBreakdown of profit margins, costs, and risk mitigationLessons learned from losing £130,000 with a failed expansion into EnglandThe importance of investor trust and business resilienceWhy providing high-quality homes for those in need is both ethical and profitable.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 Months200+ properties sourced since 202380+ units bought for himself and investors£900K+ in sourcing fees in 2024 alone💸 Behind the Sourcing BusinessWhat it really takes to build a high-volume sourcing companyHow Kris finds deals, works with investors, and structures JV agreementsWhy transparency and systems are everything in this space🔧 Builder & Refurb ManagementManaging multiple build teams across the UKDealing with delays, pricing issues, and communication breakdownsThe toll this takes when you’re running at full speed🧠 Mindset, Burnout & Shifting GearsWhy Kris is stepping back from the chaos to focus on sustainabilityThe mental pressure of scaling too fastHis new focus on paying down debt and holding long-term assets🏢 Letting Agency Launch: Stanley Property ShopWhy Kris started his own agencyThe benefits of bringing property management in-houseChallenges of operating differently from traditional agents⚠️ The Sourcing Industry – Red Flags & Real TalkWhat Kris thinks is wrong with many property sourcers todayKey advice for anyone buying from sourcing agents or auction dealsHow to spot value—and avoid the fluffNow, 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 ClarityLosing his job at BlackRock and the moment his health collapsedHow being in debt and housebound pushed him to take control of his financesStarting from scratch after moving to the UK with just £500📈 Wealth Building Through PropertyBuilding a 9-property buy-to-let portfolio with a BRR strategyWhat he looks for in deals: cashflow, long-term demand, and sustainable lendingWhy he pivoted away from short-term lets in Edinburgh📊 The Bigger Wealth PictureWhy Taimur is just as passionate about stocks and pensions as propertyUnderstanding compound growth and why time in the market is more important than timing the marketHow small monthly investments add up to millions over time🧠 Mindset & Financial StrategyWhy more money doesn’t solve money problems—discipline doesHow to think like an investor, not a speculatorThe difference between income, wealth, and financial freedom🧰 Tips for New InvestorsDon’t chase cashflow alone—look for balanced returnsInvest in learning, not just propertyThink long-term and avoid get-rich-quick trapsThis 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​John and Luis reflect on the $20k business mastermind in Vegas​Key insight: Identify the real bottleneck holding your business back​How free value leads to long-term client trust and conversions🚀 Careers in Property​The real path for young people looking to get into property​Why starting in a full-time job can fast-track your growth more than deal sourcing on the side​Skills that matter most: coachability, confidence, communication📞 Inside Prime Property​What makes a top performer: 10+ property sales per month and a £10k payday​Their transparent commission model and training systems​Creating a culture of hustle, growth, and long-term opportunity📊 Self-Employed Estate Agency Debate​The pros and cons of the Keller Williams / EXP model​Why low-value Scottish properties make self-employed models risky​Building security and volume through a salaried + commission structure👥 Recruiting and Building Teams​The importance of video interviews, confidence, and likeability in hiring​Why Prime looks for hungry individuals—not just qualifications​How they support personal property investment within the teamThis 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

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven are joined by Colin Macmillan, managing director of Glasgow Property Letting, for a deep dive into what’s really happening across the Scottish property market.With interest rates expected to shift, rents showing signs of cooling, and new legislation looming, this episode breaks down the latest data and trends affecting both investors and landlords.Colin brings hands-on insight from managing over 300 properties, giving a grounded perspective on how landlords and letting agents are navigating the current landscape.Key Highlights:📉 Scottish House Prices & Sales VolumesWhere property values are holding up — and where they’re slippingWhy sales volumes have dropped despite buyer demand still being thereThe widening affordability gap, especially for FTBs and low-income earners🏠 Rental Market TrendsAnnual rent growth down to 5.6% — and why that’s not a bad thingSigns of softening demand and increased supply in certain regionsWhy 2025 will expose landlords who haven't adjusted to market realities📊 Lettings Insight from the GroundLandlords pushing unrealistic rent increases — and what agents are sayingHow tenants are negotiating harder and shopping around more than everThe shift towards fixed rents and longer tenancies🏢 Student Accommodation BoomRecord number of PBSA (Purpose Built Student Accommodation) units under constructionWhat this means for HMO landlords and the wider rental marketWill Glasgow run out of student tenants?🔧 Legislation, Licensing & Market PressureHighland Council cracking down on short-term letsColin’s view on EPC requirements, ADS, and compliance fatigueWhy government policy continues to hurt affordability instead of helping it#scottishpropertypodcast #propertymarketupdate #rentalmarket #glasgowproperty #landlordtips #scottishhousingcrisis #propertyinvestment #colinmacmillan #studentaccommodation #hmoinvesting #ukpropertymarket #lettingagentlife

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Eoin Baillie, a former gas engineer from West Lothian who’s now one of Dubai’s top-performing real estate brokers. After years in the Scottish property scene, Eoin made a bold move to the UAE — with no contacts, no leads, and 14 suitcases to his name.Today, he’s earning up to £100K per month in commissions, brokering multi-million-dirham deals, and running a high-performing team in one of the world’s most competitive real estate markets. Episode Highlights:🏠 Life Before DubaiHow Eoin got started in property in ScotlandHis experience in construction, lettings, flips, and service accommodationWhy he decided to walk away from his UK portfolio to start fresh✈️ Taking the Leap to DubaiWhat it really costs to relocate — and why £25K is the minimum bufferLeaving with 14 suitcases and no guarantee of incomeWhy his first 6 months nearly broke him💼 Building a Business in Dubai Real EstateThe difference between “glamorous” Dubai real estate and the actual grindWorking 14-hour days, handling rejection, and building a name from scratchThe deal that changed everything — and pulled him back from quitting📈 Making £100K Months in CommissionThe mindset shift needed to go from chasing rent to chasing multi-million dirham dealsThe value of showing up every day — even when the pipeline is emptyHow social media helped him stand out in a crowded market🧠 Mindset, Struggles & GrowthWhy Dubai is a pressure cooker — and not for everyoneThe emotional toll of starting from zeroEoin’s honest take on mental health, family sacrifice, and staying grounded----------------------------------------------------Know someone looking to sell? Send the guys at Prime a message now!----------------------------------------------------

In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Angus Johnston, founder of LetUs, a Glasgow-based letting agency specialising in HMOs. Angus shares his fascinating journey from aspiring investment banker and full-time wedding singer to building a business managing over 120 properties – with a strong focus on the student HMO market in Glasgow.Episode Highlights:🏡 From Accountant to Letting AgentWhy Angus walked away from PwC and investment banking to sing full-timeHow COVID derailed his music career and pushed him into property management📈 Building an HMO Business from the Ground UpHow he started with 7 properties (including his own and his brother’s)Scaling during lockdown with creative hustle and a sharp student focus🔥 The Realities of Running HMOs in ScotlandWhy group lets, not room-by-room, are the standard in Scottish HMO setupsHow legislation, like the PRT, impacts lease structure and managementCommon tenant challenges — from broken vacuums to surprise guests…📊 Crunching the HMO NumbersWhat it actually costs to convert a flat into an HMO (licensing, refurbs, furnishing)Why capital growth in prime locations like Glasgow’s West End makes it worth itThe sweet spot for profitability (hint: 4- and 5-bed flats)🏛️ Licensing & Council ProcessThe reality of 12-month lead times for new HMO licencesKey differences between existing vs. new licence applicationsHow to avoid pitfalls with HMO layout, kitchens, and fire safety🛠️ Maintenance, Void Periods, and Managing ExpectationsBudgeting £1,000+/year in maintenance and planning for 11-month letsManaging expectations with tenants, neighbours, and property owners