The Property Unleashed Podcast

Mark Fitzgerald
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May 22, 2025 • 22min

The Essential Guide to Due Diligence in Serviced Accommodation

Send us a textDue diligence makes or breaks your serviced accommodation business. Without proper analysis, you're simply gambling with your investment capital and hoping for the best.Successful SA operators treat each property as its own business entity, requiring thorough market research and financial analysis. This means systematically tracking competitor properties and local hotels through detailed spreadsheets, monitoring price fluctuations month-by-month to understand seasonal variations and demand patterns. Unlike traditional rentals, serviced accommodation relies on dynamic pricing – rates that fluctuate dramatically based on local events, seasons, and demand cycles. A Premier Inn near Wembley Stadium might charge £100 per night normally but command £900-1000 during major events!Understanding your cost structure is equally crucial. Fixed costs (mortgage/rent, insurance, utilities, maintenance fund) must be paid regardless of occupancy. Variable costs (cleaning, linen, sundries) fluctuate with guest turnover, while cost of sales (OTA commissions, booking systems) directly relate to securing bookings. The smartest operators establish a monthly maintenance pot (£100/property) that accumulates over time, creating a financial buffer against unexpected repairs.The golden rule? Your break-even point should be 50% occupancy or less. Many novices accept break-even points of 65% or higher, severely limiting profit potential. For optimal performance, target 70-75% occupancy – consistently higher rates often indicate underpricing, while lower occupancy suggests overpricing or market issues.Ready to build a six-figure SA business? Visit thepropertyunleashed.com for free resources including training masterclasses and deal analyzing spreadsheets. For personalized guidance, check out our Clarity Day workshops where we'll help you craft a bespoke property investment roadmap tailored to your goals and circumstances. Stop guessing and start investing with confidence – your profitable SA business awaits!VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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May 15, 2025 • 47min

Throwback Thursday: Flipping Properties And Momentum Investing With Peter Mare

Send us a textThrowback Thursday Episode – From Corporate Careers to Property Freedom: The Keys to Doors JourneyIn this Throwback Thursday feature, we’re revisiting one of the most impactful conversations on the show—an inspiring episode with Peter from Keys to Doors, who, alongside his partner Monica, carved a new life for themselves through property investing.Their journey didn’t begin with years of experience or a background in construction—it started with a book read on a beach during a well-earned vacation. That moment sparked a fire that led them away from the 9–5 grind and into the world of property, but not without plenty of planning, sacrifice, and lessons learned.They began small with single-let properties, building experience and confidence. As their knowledge grew, they strategically moved into HMOs and later into commercial conversions—always taking a methodical approach and adapting when needed. Their dual business model—combining long-term asset acquisition with short-term trading income through joint ventures—gave them the financial security and flexibility to leave their corporate jobs behind. First Monica, then Peter.But what really sets their story apart is their ability to pivot with purpose. When the COVID-19 pandemic made sourcing discounted deals nearly impossible, they didn’t stall—they shifted to supported living properties, benefiting from stronger cash flow and fewer day-to-day management demands. As the market evolves again, they’re now reintroducing flip projects, showing once more how agility is just as important as ambition.This episode is more than just a timeline of deals—it’s a raw and honest reflection on the realities of property investing. In 2022, Peter and Monica hit burnout. That moment of realisation changed everything. They now prioritise quarterly international breaks and regular weekend retreats to maintain their energy, creativity, and quality of life.As Peter says:“Property investing is a long game. It’s better to be steady and methodical—and have a good balance of taking care of yourself.”For anyone thinking about starting in property, Peter shares golden advice:Invest in education to reduce fear and build confidenceUse systematic viewing strategies to accurately assess refurbishment cVALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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May 8, 2025 • 31min

Money Doesn't Have to Hold You Back: A Guide to Working with Property Investors

Send us a textMark Fitzgerald shares proven strategies for attracting and working with property investors, providing a roadmap to securing funding for property deals and building trust-based investor relationships.• Transforming the mindset from "asking to borrow money" to "sharing investment opportunities"• Establishing clarity on your property strategy before approaching potential investors• Avoiding amateur mistakes like offering unrealistically high returns over short timeframes• Starting conversations by asking about current investment returns rather than directly asking for money• Understanding investor needs by discussing their preferred return percentages and investment timeframes• Encouraging investors to maintain a portion of their savings as security to prevent last-minute cancellations• Building genuine relationships through regular contact and demonstrating active involvement in property• Adopting an abundance mindset about available investment capital• Overcoming limiting beliefs that prevent effective investor conversationsCheck out our Clarity Day workshop at thepropertyunleashed.com to gain complete clarity on your property strategy. We also offer free tools, resources, and accelerator trainings to help you master different property strategies.VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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May 1, 2025 • 16min

What To Say To Get The Deals

Send us a textDue to high demand, we’re bringing this one back!This throwback episode is a fan favourite and one of the most downloaded from The Property Unleashed Podcast archives.Persuasion isn't just a business skill—it's the foundation of wealth creation in property entrepreneurship. When you can effectively communicate your vision, build genuine rapport, and influence others ethically, deals materialize that benefit everyone involved.Today's episode dives deep into the psychology of persuasion that's transformed countless property deals. We explore why listening is more powerful than speaking, how authentic passion transfers energy to potential partners, and why the best communicators know exactly when to stop talking. Remember: two ears, one mouth—use them in that proportion!Drawing inspiration from masters like Dale Carnegie and Steve Jobs, we break down practical techniques you can implement immediately. Learn how to create natural-sounding scripts, tell compelling stories that sell, and avoid common communication pitfalls that sabotage deals. The most valuable tip? "Don't sell past close." When you recognize someone's ready to move forward, change the subject (I personally start talking about the weather) instead of continuing to pile on information that might create doubt.These aren't just theoretical concepts—they're battle-tested strategies I've refined through years of property deals and business leadership. Whether you're negotiating with vendors, pitching to investors, or building your team, mastering influential communication will elevate every aspect of your property journey. Practice these techniques daily, even in casual interactions, and watch your confidence and closing rates transform!VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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Apr 24, 2025 • 59min

Your Past Programming Is Holding Back Your Future Success With Dominic Beecheno

Send us a textWhy do some people take action and succeed while others remain stuck despite having the same knowledge? This fascinating conversation with performance coach Dominic Bicheno uncovers the hidden psychological barriers that keep us from achieving our potential.After 18 years and over 10,000 coaching hours with 3,000+ business leaders, Dominic has identified the subconscious programming that sabotages success. He explains that while our conscious mind wants to achieve, our primitive brain is wired to keep us safe and comfortable, triggering fear responses that hold us back from taking risks.The most illuminating revelation? These mental blocks were installed during childhood (ages 0-12) when our brains operated in theta and delta wavelength states that absorbed information without filters. One childhood incident can create a limiting belief that influences decisions decades later. Even more surprisingly, we inherit psychological blocks from our ancestors just as we inherit genetic tendencies.Dominic shares powerful techniques for breaking through these limitations, explaining why meditation, visualization, and specialized hypnotherapy like Rapid Transformational Therapy can create profound shifts by accessing those same theta brainwave states where original programming occurred. He emphasizes that environment shapes outcomes—"you're the average of the five people you spend most time with"—and sometimes major life changes are necessary to break limiting patterns.Whether you're hesitating to make offers on property deals, struggling to grow your business, or feeling stuck in any area of life, Dominic's insights provide both understanding and practical tools for transformation. His message is ultimately hopeful: by recognizing our programming and consciously creating new neural pathways, we can overcome any psychological barrier and finally achieve the success we desire.Connect with Dominic at www.unleash-u.com to discover how to break through your own limiting beliefs and unleash your full potential.VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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Apr 17, 2025 • 25min

Throwback Thursday: How To Build A Six-Figure Serviced Accommodation Business

Send us a textThrowback Thursday: How To Build A Six-Figure Serviced Accommodation Business with Graham LindleyThis popular throwback episode of The Property Unleashed Podcast features Graham Lindley, who has built one of the most successful serviced accommodation businesses in his area—scaling to over 145 units and dominating his local market.Graham joins Mark Fitzgerald to share the full story of how he did it, what it really takes to build a high-performing SA business, and how you can do the same. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to scale your current operation, this episode offers practical guidance you can apply straight away.Key takeaways include:• How Graham scaled his SA business to over 145 units• Strategies for dominating your local area and spotting key opportunities• The mindset, systems, and team structure behind long-term success• Mistakes to avoid when setting up or growing your SA portfolio• Why coaching and guidance can fast-track your resultsThis is a must-listen episode for anyone serious about growing a sustainable and profitable serviced accommodation business.FREE RESOURCES MENTIONED:Download Marks & Graham’s Ultimate Serviced Accommodation Guide:Click here to get your copyExplore Marks & Graham’s full SA Training & Coaching Program:Learn more hereDownload the Deal Stacker Spreadsheet to analyse any property deal:Access it hereDiscover more free guides and property tools:Visit www.thepropertyunleashed.comVALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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Apr 10, 2025 • 8min

Why Now Is the Perfect Time to Build Your Property Business

Send us a textThe current property market in 2025 offers exceptional opportunities for investors who approach it professionally rather than casually. With many landlords exiting due to new legislation and rising interest rates, those who establish systemized businesses and focus on quality can thrive in this landscape.• Labour government's Renter's Right Bill is causing many landlords to exit the market• Property professionals with systems succeed where casual investors struggle• Low-capital strategies include deal sourcing, rent-to-rent, HMOs, and serviced accommodation• Quality deals matter more than quantity - avoid rushing into bad investments• Higher interest rates have eliminated profitability for traditional buy-to-let landlords• Modern tenants demand better living experiences than five years ago• Diversify your portfolio across multiple strategies rather than concentrating in one area• Use limited companies where appropriate for tax benefits• Work with tax advisors and accountants who understand property investing• Invest in proper training before starting your property journeyVisit thepropertyunleashed.com for free tools and resources including guides, deal analyzers, trainings, and masterclasses to help you build your property business the right way.VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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Apr 3, 2025 • 22min

Throwback Thursday: Mastering the Art of Deal Sourcing – 8 Expert Tips for Success

Send us a textBack by popular demand, this throwback episode is one of the most-loved and highly downloaded from The Property Unleashed archives. In this episode, Mark Fitzgerald dives deep into one of the most essential skills every successful property investor must master: deal sourcing.Whether you’re sourcing deals for your own portfolio or packaging them for other investors, knowing how to find, negotiate, and secure the right opportunities is the key to building a sustainable and profitable property business. In this classic session, Mark breaks down the core strategies and insider tips that can set you apart in a competitive market.Mark shares 8 expert tips to help you master deal sourcing and avoid the common mistakes that hold investors back:• Why networking is the foundation of successful deal sourcing• How to use data to uncover hidden property opportunities• Building strong relationships with agents, landlords, and investors• Recognising and avoiding time-wasting deals early on• Negotiating confidently and ethically to secure win-win outcomes• The power of follow-up and staying front of mind with key contacts• Common pitfalls new deal sourcers face—and how to sidestep them• Developing the right mindset to consistently source profitable dealsVALUABLE RESOURCES:Download your free Deal Stacker Spreadsheet to analyse deals quickly and accurately:Get it hereGrab the free Ultimate SA Business Builder eBook – your 10-step guide to building a thriving SA business:Download nowExplore more free tools, eBooks, and masterclasses:www.thepropertyunleashed.comJOIN OUR COMMUNITY:Connect with like-minded property investors and join the conversation:Join the Property Unleashed Facebook GroupCONNECT WITH ME:Facebook: Mark FitzgeraldInstagram: VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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Mar 27, 2025 • 47min

Smart Property Management Will Transform Your Investment Returns With John Brogden

Send us a textJohn Brogdon shares how he transformed from physiotherapist to property entrepreneur by building a successful service accommodation management business that delivers higher returns for landlords while preserving their valuable assets.• Started with a simple house-hack in 2014, letting rooms to professionals that covered mortgage and bills• Leveraged capital growth after 8 years to expand into service accommodation• Chose the management model over rent-to-rent for better risk profile and faster ROI• Currently managing 10 service accommodation units across Leeds, Bradford and Harrogate• Delivers approximately 20% more net profit for landlords compared to traditional letting• Takes security deposits and performs ID checks to minimize risks and protect properties• Targets longer bookings from business travelers to improve profitability and reduce wear• Plans to expand into supported living to offer landlords multiple investment options• Recommends "graded exposure" approach – small, consistent improvements compound over time• Suggests attending property networking events regularly to build momentum and connections• Offers creative solutions for beginners to secure their first clients despite competitionIf you have buy-to-let properties in West Yorkshire or Harrogate and want to explore potentially higher returns through serviced accommodation without the hassle of managing it yourself, reach out to John at PIER 24 Homes through the link in the show notes.Johns Newsletter link; https://substack.com/home/post/p-157959087Email for any inquires : info@pier24homes.com Johns Facebook : https://en-gb.facebook.com/people/John-Brogden/pfbid031TJF1bqKPhehXWcVLg5P2nZRfxANrx3K9txw5Z7JxLEtJqT7yBY1HQw4gq1SNqTbl/VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...
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Mar 20, 2025 • 6min

Remember Property Is Business, It's Never Personal.

Send us a textMark Fitzgerald discusses the critical mindset shift needed for successful property investing: removing personal emotions from business decisions. Maintaining emotional detachment allows investors to make objective choices, negotiate effectively, and know when to walk away from deals that no longer serve their business interests.• Emotional attachment to property deals often leads to poor decision-making• Inexperienced investors commonly become "motivated buyers" who accept unfavorable terms• Not all investments will be winners - learning from mistakes is essential• For rent-to-rent businesses, being willing to invoke break clauses when deals become unprofitable• All successful property deals should be win-win scenarios that benefit all parties involved• Ethical considerations must remain at the forefront of all property transactions• Setting up properly from the beginning helps avoid costly mistakes• Many new investors get into trouble by acting without proper training or guidanceIf you need help setting up your property business correctly, visit propertyunleashed.com for free tools and resources to ensure you're on the right track for success.VALUABLE RESOURCES: Let me help you build your property business, Check out how I can support your investing now. Visit https://www.thepropertyunleashed.com/home My Property Investing Community called Property Education To Action, This is the best place to achieve your property goals and build the life you desire. https://educationtoaction.com Apply here: thepropertyunleashed.com — click Inner Circle “Free Goal Setting Masterclass: Build Your Life In Five Days” “If you’ve enjoyed these episodes, leave us a five-star review” https://www.facebook.com/groups/816926952556608 to meet like-minded property investors and be a part of the community. CONNECT WITH ME: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mark.fitzgerald.7921Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markfitzgeraldentrepreneur/Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-fitzgerald...

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