In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Phillip Stewart, a property investor and professional property photographer. Phillip shares his journey from a passion for landscape photography to building a successful property media business – and how he’s now using that platform to grow his property portfolio.
Phillip talks about working with estate agents, developers, and investors, and explains why professional photography can make or break a property listing. He also opens up about the challenges of starting his own business during COVID, the importance of branding, and how photography has given him a unique advantage when sourcing and investing in property.
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
🌟 From Passion to Profession
Discovering photography at school and turning a hobby into a career
Winning national and international awards in landscape photography
Moving into property photography with McEwan Fraser Legal
🏡 Building a Property Media Business
Gaining experience with estate agents before launching his own company
Starting out during COVID while facing tough restrictions
Growing a team of freelancers and scaling the business across Scotland
📸 Why Property Photography Matters
How professional photos, videos, and floorplans boost sales and branding
Case studies showing the difference high-quality marketing can make
Breaking down packages, costs, and the value delivered to agents and investors
💬 Property Investing & Personal Growth
Using his media business profits to buy his first rental property
Training with Darren & Jillian Green and planning future HMOs and SA units
----------------------------------------------------
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In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Jemima Spence, founder of Kelvin Grove Property Sourcing and Jemima Renovates. Jemima shares her remarkable journey from a modelling and acting career to becoming a property entrepreneur – and the challenges she faced along the way.
After leaving her ex-partner’s property business and walking away from a large amount of money, Jemima had to rebuild from scratch. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she launched her own sourcing business, found her first clients, and began growing a company that now helps investors source and refurbish properties across Scotland.
Jemima opens up about resilience, starting over, and why bold design and branding have become her trademark in property.
🎙️ Episode Highlights
🌟 Career Transition & Starting Over
From a successful career in modelling and acting to property investment
Leaving her ex-partner’s business and choosing to start again from scratch
Building confidence and resilience through personal and professional setbacks
🏡 Launching Kelvin Grove Property Sourcing
Starting her own business during the COVID-19 pandemic
How she found her first clients and attracted investors
Structuring her sourcing and refurb management fees
🛠️ Design, Branding & Refurbs
Why she believes in bold interiors that make properties stand out
Lessons learned from challenging renovation projects
Using social media and personal branding to grow trust and credibility
💬 Personal Life & Growth
Walking away from financial security to protect her independence
Balancing business growth with her personal journey after separation
Her focus on building a meaningful business – and a meaningful love life
In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Neil Dymock to break down the latest developments in the Scottish and wider UK property markets. From falling rents in Dundee to the impact of government taxes, Neil provides valuable insights for landlords, investors, and anyone keeping an eye on where the market is heading.
🎙️ Episode Highlights:
🏘️ Dundee Rental Market
Dundee rents are down 9.9% – the only Scottish city to see a drop
Why Neil sees this as a market correction after rents became unaffordable
Despite falling rents, yields for investors remain strong
🎓 Impact of Purpose-Built Student Accommodation (PBSA)
Growth of PBSA is reshaping Dundee’s HMO market
Surplus of student accommodation, with more still being proposed
Why foreign students prefer PBSA for flexibility and bundled costs
🏡 UK & Scottish Property Sales
UK house prices: down 1.3% monthly, up 0.3% year-on-year
Scotland outperforming the rest of the UK with 2.6% growth over 12 months
Surge in Dundee first-time buyers boosting local demand
💰 Government Taxes & Policy
LBTT (Land and Building Transaction Tax) as a major barrier to downsizing
ADS (Additional Dwelling Supplement) at 8% deterring many small investors
Record £714m in Scottish property tax revenue, with ADS contributing 31%
📊 Landlord Trends & Market Shifts
One in three landlords considering exiting the market
Private rental sector still growing, driven by professional portfolio landlords
Self-managed landlords struggling with legislation, benefiting letting agents
⚖️ Potential New Tax – NI Contributions on Rental Income
Government considering an 8% National Insurance levy on rental income
Would apply to personally held properties, raising £2.18bn
What this could mean for landlords and the wider market
The discussion covers everything from the growth of purpose-built student accommodation (PBSA) and its effect on HMOs, to landlord trends, tax policy changes, and the possibility of a new National Insurance levy on rental income. This is a must-listen for anyone wanting to stay ahead in a rapidly changing property landscape.
In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven welcome back Caroline Claydon, who first appeared on the show in 2020. Since then, Caroline has transformed her property career, moving from HMOs and planning gain projects to building her own boutique aparthotel brand – the Archibald Hotel Collection.
Caroline shares the highs and lows of her journey – from overcoming £80,000 of debt in the 2008 crash, to creating multimillion-pound developments in Edinburgh. She opens up about the challenges of planning refusals, rogue contractors, and refinancing setbacks that “nearly broke her,” as well as the systems, AI tools, and design-led approach that now make her business stand out.
🎙️ Episode Highlights
🏁 From Debt to Property Success
Losing her first business in the 2008 crash and facing £80,000 personal debt
Investing £22,000 in mentorship despite fear – and making it back in her first deals
Starting with social housing buy-to-lets before scaling into HMOs in Birmingham and Liverpool
🏨 Building the Archibald Hotel Collection
Why she skipped serviced accommodation and went straight to aparthotels
First deal: converting a B&B outside Liverpool into an 11-bed aparthotel, opening just as COVID hit
Launching a boutique, staffless hotel brand named after her late dog, Archibald
🏗️ Edinburgh Projects – Triumphs & Challenges
Stafford Street: buying a derelict office, battling vigilante opposition, tram contribution confusion, and a £1.5m refurb that resulted in a valuation just under £4m
John’s Place: a painful townhouse project plagued by refused planning, a rogue contractor stealing materials, and lenders pulling funding – leaving her with £27k/month bills and severe burnout
🤖 Operations, Systems & AI
Running staffless hotels with smart locks and digital guest access
Using AI receptionists and chatbots to handle enquiries and bookings
Dividing roles with her husband Nick – she leads acquisitions and development, he runs systems and operations
🛋️ Designing for Premium Value
Why boutique, vintage interiors are core to her business model
Working with designers to create unique looks that command higher rates
Investing heavily in interiors (£170k on Stafford Street, £250k on John’s Place) to elevate guest experience
If you’ve ever thought about scaling into commercial conversions or boutique hospitality, this is an unmissable conversation.
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 Business
Growing up around his father’s Glasgow estate agency
Watching the family firm lose control after rapid expansion
Key lessons on ownership, shareholding, and capitalisation
💼 From O’Neils to Newton
Founding O’Neils Lettings in 1995 and hustling for growth
Selling the business in 2000 for ~£750k
Why factoring, with its long-term recurring revenue, became his focus
📊 Scaling Newton Property Management
How Newton grew to 40,000 properties and ~85 staff across 4 offices
The “30/30/30” profit model that funded growth and acquisitions
Buying competitors at rising multiples – and why Newton is “not for sale”
🏠 Factoring, Reputation & Regulation
Why factoring has a bad public image and how Newton tackles it
Robust credit control and chasing arrears through debt collection/legal routes
Calls for stricter regulation and annual audits of client accounts
Challenges with under-resourced tribunals
🌍 Culture, Leadership & Vision
Returning from Bali to rebuild service quality after rapid growth
Creating a people-first company culture: loans, therapy, office lunches, stocked fridges
His ambition for Newton to be “the best employer in the country”
📈 Market Views & Next Steps
Why Stephen is bullish on Aberdeen and sees “Park Circus prices” potential
Reflections on being a manager, not a landlord
Balancing growth ambitions with the goal of running a generational business
----------------------------------------------------
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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 Entrepreneur
Growing up in Croydon before moving to Scotland
Leaving school at 16 to become a plumbing & heating engineer
How his trade background became the foundation for his property journey
💡 Early Side Hustles & First Property Steps
Amazon FBA, crypto, and reselling – lessons learned from failed and modest successes
Investing in mentorship and paying £6k for property training at age 20
Buying his first flat, learning about yields, cashflow, and tax pitfalls
🔨 Flips, Refurbs, and Learning the Hard Way
Turning a heating job lead into a profitable flip in just a few months
The Paisley project: overspending, travel challenges, and why he’d never do it again
Building credibility and leads through his refurbishment business
🏠 Mastering the Assisted Sale Strategy
How assisted sales work and why they benefit sellers and investors
Legal safeguards: charges on title, option-to-buy clauses, and ensuring all owners agree
Case studies of successful assisted sales – including inherited properties
🤝 Collaboration & Raising Finance
Partnering with Kyle White and the Scope Property team to scale projects
Raising £275K in two days through networking and past clients
Leveraging other people’s skills and networks for bigger deals
📈 Scaling Up & Diversifying
Building a pipeline including flips, buy-to-lets, serviced accommodation, and commercial conversions
Why collaboration beats competition in the Scottish property market
Using social proof and track record to win trust with sellers and investors
If 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 capital
The reality of scaling serviced accommodation pre-licensing
How partnering with local councils created a more stable, long-term income stream
Breakdown of profit margins, costs, and risk mitigation
Lessons learned from losing £130,000 with a failed expansion into England
The importance of investor trust and business resilience
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.
----------------------------------------------------
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#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 Months
200+ properties sourced since 2023
80+ units bought for himself and investors
£900K+ in sourcing fees in 2024 alone
💸 Behind the Sourcing Business
What it really takes to build a high-volume sourcing company
How Kris finds deals, works with investors, and structures JV agreements
Why transparency and systems are everything in this space
🔧 Builder & Refurb Management
Managing multiple build teams across the UK
Dealing with delays, pricing issues, and communication breakdowns
The toll this takes when you’re running at full speed
🧠 Mindset, Burnout & Shifting Gears
Why Kris is stepping back from the chaos to focus on sustainability
The mental pressure of scaling too fast
His new focus on paying down debt and holding long-term assets
🏢 Letting Agency Launch: Stanley Property Shop
Why Kris started his own agency
The benefits of bringing property management in-house
Challenges of operating differently from traditional agents
⚠️ The Sourcing Industry – Red Flags & Real Talk
What Kris thinks is wrong with many property sourcers today
Key advice for anyone buying from sourcing agents or auction deals
How to spot value—and avoid the fluff
Now, 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.
----------------------------------------------------
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Send the guys at Prime a message now: https://wa.me/447938603856
----------------------------------------------------
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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 Clarity
Losing his job at BlackRock and the moment his health collapsed
How being in debt and housebound pushed him to take control of his finances
Starting from scratch after moving to the UK with just £500
📈 Wealth Building Through Property
Building a 9-property buy-to-let portfolio with a BRR strategy
What he looks for in deals: cashflow, long-term demand, and sustainable lending
Why he pivoted away from short-term lets in Edinburgh
📊 The Bigger Wealth Picture
Why Taimur is just as passionate about stocks and pensions as property
Understanding compound growth and why time in the market is more important than timing the market
How small monthly investments add up to millions over time
🧠 Mindset & Financial Strategy
Why more money doesn’t solve money problems—discipline does
How to think like an investor, not a speculator
The difference between income, wealth, and financial freedom
🧰 Tips for New Investors
Don’t chase cashflow alone—look for balanced returns
Invest in learning, not just property
Think long-term and avoid get-rich-quick traps
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.
----------------------------------------------------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
🚀 Careers in Property
📞 Inside Prime Property
📊 Self-Employed Estate Agency Debate
👥 Recruiting and Building Teams
This 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.
----------------------------------------------------
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Send the guys at Prime a message now!
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#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 Volumes
Where property values are holding up — and where they’re slipping
Why sales volumes have dropped despite buyer demand still being there
The widening affordability gap, especially for FTBs and low-income earners
🏠 Rental Market Trends
Annual rent growth down to 5.6% — and why that’s not a bad thing
Signs of softening demand and increased supply in certain regions
Why 2025 will expose landlords who haven't adjusted to market realities
📊 Lettings Insight from the Ground
Landlords pushing unrealistic rent increases — and what agents are saying
How tenants are negotiating harder and shopping around more than ever
The shift towards fixed rents and longer tenancies
🏢 Student Accommodation Boom
Record number of PBSA (Purpose Built Student Accommodation) units under construction
What this means for HMO landlords and the wider rental market
Will Glasgow run out of student tenants?
🔧 Legislation, Licensing & Market Pressure
Highland Council cracking down on short-term lets
Colin’s view on EPC requirements, ADS, and compliance fatigue
Why 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 Dubai
How Eoin got started in property in Scotland
His experience in construction, lettings, flips, and service accommodation
Why he decided to walk away from his UK portfolio to start fresh
✈️ Taking the Leap to Dubai
What it really costs to relocate — and why £25K is the minimum buffer
Leaving with 14 suitcases and no guarantee of income
Why his first 6 months nearly broke him
💼 Building a Business in Dubai Real Estate
The difference between “glamorous” Dubai real estate and the actual grind
Working 14-hour days, handling rejection, and building a name from scratch
The deal that changed everything — and pulled him back from quitting
📈 Making £100K Months in Commission
The mindset shift needed to go from chasing rent to chasing multi-million dirham deals
The value of showing up every day — even when the pipeline is empty
How social media helped him stand out in a crowded market
🧠 Mindset, Struggles & Growth
Why Dubai is a pressure cooker — and not for everyone
The emotional toll of starting from zero
Eoin’s honest take on mental health, family sacrifice, and staying grounded
----------------------------------------------------
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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 Agent
Why Angus walked away from PwC and investment banking to sing full-time
How COVID derailed his music career and pushed him into property management
📈 Building an HMO Business from the Ground Up
How 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 Scotland
Why group lets, not room-by-room, are the standard in Scottish HMO setups
How legislation, like the PRT, impacts lease structure and management
Common tenant challenges — from broken vacuums to surprise guests…
📊 Crunching the HMO Numbers
What 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 it
The sweet spot for profitability (hint: 4- and 5-bed flats)
🏛️ Licensing & Council Process
The reality of 12-month lead times for new HMO licences
Key differences between existing vs. new licence applications
How to avoid pitfalls with HMO layout, kitchens, and fire safety
🛠️ Maintenance, Void Periods, and Managing Expectations
Budgeting £1,000+/year in maintenance and planning for 11-month lets
Managing expectations with tenants, neighbours, and property owners
In this episode, Nick and Steven sit down with brothers Calum and Connor Clark, two investors who’ve built a thriving, family-run property business across multiple strategies — from buy-to-let and HMOs to commercial conversions and hospitality.
Episode Highlights:
🏘️ Starting Out in Property
How they got into property without quitting their day jobs.
The first flip project — and how it led to long-term investing
Early challenges and how they gained experience through hands-on learning
💼 Building a Scalable Portfolio
Focused on delivering high-quality accommodation in Dundee, Arbroath, and surrounding areas
Tips for systematising property management in a family-run business
🏨 Hospitality & Guesthouse Strategy
Operating a 6-bed luxury guesthouse in Arbroath with strong year-round occupancy
Their approach to customer service, direct bookings, and standing out from Airbnb competition
How hospitality feeds into their overall brand and business
🤝 Family Business Dynamics
Balancing different skill sets and personalities as siblings
The importance of communication, defined roles, and mutual respect
What makes their partnership work — and how they handle conflict
----------------------------------------------------------
Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price.
Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/
John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/
Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/
------------------------------------
Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast
**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.
🤝 Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups. We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 Book your place at the networking events here
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Connect with us on social media:🔗 Join our private Facebook group
🔗 Follow us on Instagram
📩 Email us:
Steven@steven-clark.com
Nick@arcproperty.uk
In this wide-ranging and entertaining episode, Nick and Steven are joined once again by property investor and entrepreneur Davy Hutton. Known for his straight-talking approach, Davy gives us a raw, honest update on the state of the property market, social inequality, and why the rules are no longer built for the everyday investor.
He opens up about mental health, the inspiration behind his new spoken word music album, and why he believes being vulnerable is more powerful than pretending to have it all figured out.
Episode Highlights:
🧠 Mental Health & Identity
Why Davy created a spoken word album during lockdown
Growing up with undiagnosed anxiety and how he "faked" his way through social life
The dangers of today’s isolated digital world for young men
Why sharing your struggles can open the door for others
🏠 Property Market Commentary
What’s really happening with supply and demand in Scotland
Why the West End of Glasgow is still flying, but everywhere else is flatlining
A 3-bed property with just one viewer: is buyer sentiment collapsing?
The silent shift: from accidental landlords to corporate investors
📊 UK Economic Realities
Inflation, council tax, and the slow death of the middle class
Why local authorities and governments are “burst” – and what that means for housing
Davy’s take on wealth inequality, tax, and why the 95% are getting squeezed
Should the rich pay more tax? Davy’s controversial but clear answer
💬 Culture, Politics & Society
The illusion of free speech in the age of social media venom
How our tribal need to "belong" drives dangerous thinking
Why politicians are no longer leaders – just mouthpieces for corporate agendas
🐍 Snake Stories & Pet Policies
From lost pythons to rescue chickens – Davy’s home is a full-blown zoo
Why he supports tenants having pets – and why the Greens might have a point
How professional landlords should treat tenants like real people
----------------------------------------------------------
Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price.
Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/
John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/
Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/
------------------------------------
Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast
**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.
🤝 Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups. We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 Book your place at the networking events here
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Connect with us on social media:🔗 Join our private Facebook group
🔗 Follow us on Instagram
📩 Email us:
Steven@steven-clark.com
Nick@arcproperty.uk
In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven are joined by Andrew and Chris from Brightstone Property, returning two years after their first appearance to share how they went from flips and serviced accommodation to delivering a 30-unit commercial business centre in Falkirk.
They break down how they financed, developed, and filled the building — including the challenges of a six-figure refurb budget overrun, raising private investor finance through a SAS pension, and how the project has now grown into a profitable commercial asset and full-time business.
Whether you're curious about commercial conversions, raising finance, or building a scalable property business, this episode delivers real talk, numbers, and lessons from two investors who are making it happen.
Episode Highlights
🏢 From Resi Flips to Commercial Conversions
Started with residential flips and serviced accommodation
Decided to pivot to larger commercial deals for scale and shared income
Acquired a 7,500 sq. ft. building in Falkirk for £310K
Transformed it into a 30-unit business centre (Brightstone Spaces)
💰 Funding the Project
Raised finance through a private SAS pension investor
Structured the deal to buy with investor funds and fund the refurb from profits
Managed a refurb budget of £260K (which went £100K over!)
Maintained investor trust through regular updates and repaid on time
🔧 Overcoming Operational Challenges
Refurb included full rewiring, new fire systems, secure entry, and high-spec internet
Filled the ground floor in 12 weeks via a hands-on marketing approach
Achieved 97% occupancy, generating £17K/month gross rent
Refinanced the building at £840K with a 70% LTV
📈 Growth into Property Management
Now managing three additional commercial sites for Liberty Space
Offering management services for other commercial landlords
Building a hybrid business model combining property ownership with operational income
Planning to acquire their next building while scaling their management arm
From modest residential flips to managing over 30 commercial tenants and multiple buildings, Andrew and Chris have completely transformed their business over the past two years. This episode is full of valuable lessons on financing, scaling, and building long-term credibility — all while remaining hands-on, humble, and community-focused.
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Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price.
Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/
John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/
Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/
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Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast
**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.
🤝 Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups. We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 Book your place at the networking events here
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Connect with us on social media:🔗 Join our private Facebook group
🔗 Follow us on Instagram
📩 Email us:
Steven@steven-clark.com
Nick@arcproperty.uk
In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven are joined once again by serial investor and mortgage broker Ewan Dudding — who has now scaled to over 100 properties and relocated to Dubai while running a high-volume brokerage and build team.
Episode Highlights:
🏗️ Scaling the Portfolio
Now owns over 100 units, including 17 HMOs and multiple portfolios
Buying properties every 5 days for himself and every 2.5 days for clients
Refurbs running at £100k/month with two build teams and vans on the road
Targets £300–£350/month cash flow per unit
💰 Raising & Recycling Finance
Started with £80K savings and raised his first £80K from a friend
Now borrows from clients and private investors at up to 10% interest
Uses bridging and refinance model to pull money out in as little as 6 weeks
Key advice: raise capital from people who trust you, not just property people
📊 Broker Business & Mortgage Insights
Team of five and pushing through 10–12 mortgage applications per day
Specialises in bridging, BTLs, and portfolio lending for landlords
Explains how surveyors, lender relationships, and product switches impact deals
Partnered with Go Financial and growing organically through referrals
🌍 Life in Dubai & Business Mindset
Relocated recently for lifestyle and productivity — not just tax benefits
Says time difference gives him focus and freedom before UK wakes up
Still works 14-hour days and prefers growing his business to relaxing on the beach
Hasn't bought a car, lives modestly, and reinvests every pound
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Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price.
Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/
John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/
Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/
------------------------------------
Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast
**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.
🤝 Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups. We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 Book your place at the networking events here
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Connect with us on social media:🔗 Join our private Facebook group
🔗 Follow us on Instagram
📩 Email us:
Steven@steven-clark.com
Nick@arcproperty.uk
#scottishpropertypodcast #propertyinvestment #buytolet #bridgingfinance #portfoliobuilder #hmoinvesting #mortgagebroker #dubailife #realestateuk #landlordlife #propertyrefurbs #privatefinance #scalingup
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.
----------------------------------------------------------
Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price.
Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/
John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/
Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/
------------------------------------
Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast
**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.
🤝 Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups. We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 Book your place at the networking events here
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Connect with us on social media:🔗 Join our private Facebook group
🔗 Follow us on Instagram
📩 Email us:
Steven@steven-clark.com
Nick@arcproperty.uk
In this special episode, co-host Nick Ponty sits down with Colin Campbell to delve into a refreshingly candid conversation that strays from the usual property chat and instead dives deep into the world of personal growth, mindset shifts, and life transformation.
🎧 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
Colin's powerful journey of self-discovery and how personal development became the foundation for his success.
Why men struggle to talk openly about emotions and personal challenges—and how breaking that silence can be transformative.
The importance of showing up as your authentic self in business and life.
Colin’s thoughts on masculinity, mental health, vulnerability, and purpose.
Tips on how to build confidence, resilience, and inner peace, even when life gets hard.
The role of daily practices like journaling, breathwork, and fitness in maintaining emotional well-being.
How being part of a growth-focused community can elevate your mindset and your results.
🔥 Whether you're a property investor, entrepreneur, or simply someone looking to level up personally and professionally, this episode is packed with value.
----------------------------------------------------------
Prime Property Auctions – Sell your property with no upfront costs and control the reserve price.
Prime Property Auction: www.instagram.com/primepropertyauctions/
John: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer/
Luis: www.instagram.com/luis_property_auctioneer/Visit Prime Property Auction website: https://primepropertyauctions.co.uk/
------------------------------------
Follow us on all of our social media accounts: https://linktr.ee/scottishpropertypodcast
**DISCLAIMER**Please do your own due diligence on any of our guests you may decide to do business with. We interview in good faith. However, we cannot be held responsible for any credibility issues that may arise.
🤝 Visit one of our monthly networking meet-ups. We run them on the 1st Wednesday of each month and have some fantastic guest speakers.🎟 Book your place at the networking events here
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Hope you find content useful and we would really appreciate it if you could leave a review on Apple podcasts or Spotify.
Connect with us on social media:🔗 Join our private Facebook group
🔗 Follow us on Instagram
📩 Email us:
Steven@steven-clark.com
Nick@arcproperty.uk
