Episodes

  • How to Build a Thriving Property Brokerage From Scratch with Liam and Emerald
    Jan 6 2025

    In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Liam and Emerald share their remarkable journey of building Empire Property Brokers, scaling their business, and diversifying property strategies. From humble beginnings to managing a fully integrated brokerage, their story is packed with insights on resilience, creativity, and persistence in the property investment world.

    Episode Highlights:

    • From Personal Homes to Professional Ventures:

      • How Liam and Emerald transitioned from selling their own homes to investing in property professionally.
      • Early challenges in sourcing and building credibility in the property market.
    • Scaling Empire Property Brokers:

      • The growth from a property sourcing agency to a full-service brokerage.
      • Offering end-to-end services, including sourcing, refurbishment, project management, and compliance.
      • Their vision for adding a letting agency to their portfolio.
    • Key Strategies and Deals:

      • Leveraging student rentals to maximise income from two-bedroom flats.
      • Securing a bungalow through creative networking and negotiation for a short-term rental strategy.
      • Building relationships with overseas clients for consistent sourcing opportunities.
    • Lessons Learned:

      • The importance of transparency, strong client relationships, and social media presence.
      • Overcoming challenges like sourcing delays and market uncertainties with adaptability and resilience.
      • The value of starting with the end in mind and focusing on long-term goals.


    Liam and Emerald’s journey demonstrates the power of perseverance, smart strategies, and staying true to your values. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale, their story offers practical advice and inspiration for building a successful property business.


    Follow Empire Property Brokers on Instagram:

    www.instagram.com/empirepropertybrokers/

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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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    53 mins
  • Building a 24-Property Portfolio in Just One Year with Peter Toye
    Dec 30 2024

    In this inspiring episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, we sit down with Peter Toye, an entrepreneur who scaled his property portfolio to an impressive 24 properties in just one year.

    Peter shares his journey from running multiple businesses to venturing into property investment, offering valuable insights on building a portfolio, managing challenges, and leveraging trading profits for long-term growth.


    Episode Highlights:


    • Peter’s Entrepreneurial Journey:

      • Starting his first business at 14 years old.
      • Launching ventures like a car wash company, a print business, and an online competition platform.
      • Learning resilience and adaptability through business ups and downs.


    • Transition to Property Investment:

      • The impact of a health scare that motivated Peter to create financial security.
      • How trading profits from his businesses funded his property ventures.
      • A focus on capital appreciation and long-term wealth building.


    • Key Property Strategies:

      • Diversifying across locations like Edinburgh, Aberdeen, and Stirling.
      • Leveraging tools like bridging loans and refinancing to scale quickly.
      • Incorporating HMOs and portfolio acquisitions for higher cash flow.


    • Lessons Learned:

      • Importance of building a reliable team and strong relationships with brokers, lenders, and agents.
      • Managing risks and staying focused despite the lure of “shiny penny” deals.
      • Balancing cash flow and appreciation to create a robust portfolio.


    • Advice for Aspiring Investors:

      • "Learn business first—property is a natural extension."
      • Take calculated risks, educate yourself, and build resilience.
      • Surround yourself with a supportive network and experienced mentors.


    Peter Toye’s journey is a testament to the power of hard work, smart investing, and staying focused on long-term goals. Whether you’re starting your first property deal or scaling your portfolio, this episode is packed with actionable advice and inspiration to help you succeed in the ever-changing property market.


    Follow Peter Toye and The Giveaway Guys: Website: www.thegiveawayguys.co.uk LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/peter-toye-8b813b15 Instagram: www.instagram.com/toye_property Facebook: www.facebook.com/ptoye


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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/

    ----------------------------------------------


    #scottishpropertypodcast #propertyinvestment #realestate #entrepreneurship #portfolio #bridgingloans #capitalappreciation #investmenttips #propertyjourney #newpodcastepisode

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    48 mins
  • Unlocking Property Potential with Smart Financing Strategies with Emma Ross
    Dec 23 2024

    In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Emma Ross joins us to share her journey from working in the corporate banking sector to establishing her own commercial finance business. With over a decade of experience, Emma dives into the world of creative property financing, discussing how tailored solutions can unlock opportunities for investors. Whether you're a seasoned property developer or just starting, this episode provides invaluable insights into the often-complex world of property finance.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Emma’s Background and Journey:

      • From her early career at HSBC to managing Scotland and Northern Ireland for a master brokerage.
      • The decision to launch Ross Commercial Finance and prioritise values-driven business practices.
    • Creative Financing Solutions:

      • Leveraging tools like title splits, grants, and background assets to secure 100% funding.
      • How commercial valuations differ from residential and why understanding these nuances is crucial.
      • Real-life examples of unique deals, including high-value commercial assets and liquidator sales.
    • Commercial Property Trends:

      • Increasing interest in commercial property investments due to government legislation and tighter residential regulations.
      • The rise of semi-commercial properties and creative funding strategies for unique assets.
    • Key Tips for Investors:

      • The importance of understanding lender requirements and valuation types.
      • How to manage risk, negotiate better terms, and identify opportunities in challenging markets.
      • The value of building strong relationships with brokers and lenders to maximise your financing options.


    Emma Ross’s approach to creative property financing proves that knowledge and strategy are key to unlocking potential in the market. Whether you’re exploring commercial property, semi-commercial assets, or innovative funding options, this episode offers practical advice to elevate your property journey.


    Follow Emma Ross on Instagram: www.instagram.com/emma_ross_commercial_finance ------------------------------------------------------------

    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/

    ----------------------------------------------


    #scottishpropertypodcast #propertyinvestment #realestate #creativefinancing #commercialproperty #semicommercial #fundingstrategies #scottishhousing #investmenttips #newpodcastepisode

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    46 mins
  • How To Turn Property Challenges Into Big Wins with Tony Carrigan
    Dec 15 2024

    In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, we’re joined by Tony Carriden, an experienced property investor and developer, to explore his journey in the industry. Tony shares how he overcame obstacles, adapted to market changes, and built a thriving property portfolio. From navigating challenges in financing and regulations to uncovering hidden opportunities in today’s market, Tony provides actionable insights for property enthusiasts at all levels.

    Episode Highlights:

    • Tony’s Journey into Property:

      • How Tony got started in property investment and the key decisions that shaped his success.
      • His transition from smaller projects to larger developments and how he navigated the learning curve.
    • Overcoming Financing Challenges:

      • Tony’s strategies for securing financing in a competitive and ever-changing market.
      • The importance of building relationships with lenders and private investors.
    • Adapting to Market Trends:

      • How Tony stays ahead of market shifts, including the impact of interest rates, rental demand, and new regulations.
      • Why flexibility and innovation are critical for long-term success in property.
    • Identifying Opportunities in a Tough Market:

      • Tony shares how he spots under-the-radar investment opportunities, even in challenging conditions.
      • Advice for balancing risk and reward when evaluating new projects.
    • Lessons for Aspiring Property Investors:

      • The importance of patience, persistence, and ongoing education in property.
      • Tony’s top tips for building a solid portfolio, from diversifying investments to assembling a reliable team.


    Tony Carriden’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, adaptability, and a keen eye for opportunity. Whether you’re just starting in property or looking to level up your portfolio, his insights offer practical advice and fresh perspectives to help you navigate market challenges and uncover hidden potential. Don’t miss this episode packed with valuable lessons and inspiration!


    Follow Tony Carrigan on the following channels: LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/tony-carrigan-bab581289 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony_carrigan_property/ ---------------------------------------------

    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/

    ------------------------------------ #scottishpropertypodcast #propertyinvestment #realestate #propertymarket #propertydevelopment #financingtips #scottishhousing #investmentopportunities #businessgrowth #newpodcastepisode

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    47 mins
  • The Highs and Lows of Scaling a Property Business in Scotland with John Cox and John Morris
    Dec 9 2024

    In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, we’re joined by two seasoned property professionals, John Morris and John Cox. Together, they share candid insights into the highs and lows of building and scaling their respective businesses, managing teams, navigating market challenges, and finding balance between personal and professional life. Whether you're a property investor, developer, or entrepreneur, this episode is filled with practical advice and real-world stories to inspire your journey.


    Episode Highlights:


    • Starting and Scaling Property Businesses:

      • John Morris shares how Prime Property Auctions scaled aggressively from a two-person attic operation to a 15-strong team in a city-centre office.
      • John Cox discusses Cox and Co’s evolution into a multi-service property business, offering lettings, estate agency, mortgages, and investment services.


    • Building Effective Teams:

      • Strategies for recruiting, retaining, and motivating staff, including commission structures and fostering collaboration.
      • How autonomy and a supportive team culture drive better results in the workplace.


    • Balancing Work and Life:

      • Both guests reflect on the challenges of maintaining work-life balance while running growing businesses.
      • The importance of setting boundaries, such as avoiding work calls on weekends and prioritising family moments.


    • Navigating the Scottish Property Market:

      • The impact of economic conditions, interest rates, and buyer behaviour on property sales and auctions.
      • Why some properties remain unsold and the strategies used to overcome these challenges.


    • Marketing and Networking:

      • The importance of leveraging social media and organic content to build brand presence.
      • How networking events and creating a personal brand contribute to long-term success.


    • Key Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:

      • John Morris emphasises the importance of reinvesting in your business for growth.
      • John Cox highlights the value of building trust and relationships over time for sustainable success.


    This episode offers an honest and inspiring look at the journey of scaling property businesses, with valuable lessons on teamwork, work-life balance, and navigating market challenges. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to grow your operations, the insights from John Morris and John Cox will help you make smarter decisions and build a sustainable business. Don’t miss this episode packed with practical tips and real-world experience! Follow John Cox and Cox & Co: www.linkedin.com/in/john-cox-coxandco-scotland/ www.instagram.com/coxandcoscotland www.tiktok.com/@coxandco www.facebook.com/CoxandCoScotland Follow John Morris: www.instagram.com/john_property_auctioneer www.tiktok.com/@john_property_auctioneer -------------------------------------------------------------- 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/ ------------------------------------ #scottishpropertypodcast #propertyinvestment #realestate #propertybusiness #businessgrowth #teammanagement #worklifebalance #propertyauctions #entrepreneurship #networkingevents #scottishhousing

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    1 hr and 1 min
  • What Will Cause The Next Property Crash? with Davy Hutton
    Dec 2 2024
    In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, we welcome back Davy Hutton, an experienced property developer and entrepreneur, to discuss the latest trends in the property market, political developments, and their implications for landlords, investors, and tenants. From Scotland’s rental market shifts to national economic policies, Davy provides a sharp, unfiltered perspective on the challenges and opportunities shaping the industry. Episode Highlights: Labour’s First Budget and Its Impact on Property: Discussion on how the budget is affecting small and medium-sized businesses, particularly through increased National Insurance contributions and rising wages.Why businesses need to adapt to survive in this shifting economic climate. Property Market Trends in 2023: Surprising regional rent fluctuations: Glasgow shows rent corrections, while Aberdeen leads with a 4.4% increase in rental growth.How interest rate changes are affecting landlords and tenants differently depending on mortgage types. The Reality of Rent Controls: Insights into Scotland’s proposed rent caps, allowing local councils to limit rent increases to CPI + 1% (capped at 6%).The potential impact on private landlords and the housing supply crisis. Built-to-Rent Developments Stalling in Scotland: Analysis of why large-scale institutional investors are pulling out of Scotland due to rent control policies.What this means for the £2 billion in stalled housing projects and the wider economic impact. Challenges Facing Landlords and Tenants: The widening gap between property values and earnings, making homeownership increasingly unattainable for many.The role of private landlords in providing housing for tenants who can’t access social housing. Lessons from Real-Life Property Scenarios: David shares personal stories of buying, refurbishing, and renting out properties, highlighting the importance of honesty, reputation, and transparency in deals.The growing appeal of assisted sales strategies and their ethical implications. Davy Hutton’s insights highlight the challenges and opportunities facing Scotland’s property market in the wake of political and economic shifts. From rent controls to stalled developments, it’s clear that adapting to these changes is crucial for landlords, investors, and developers. --------------------------------------------------------- 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
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    1 hr and 3 mins
  • How to Transition From Trades to Property Development with Ian Lindsay
    Nov 25 2024
    In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, we welcome Ian Lindsay, an experienced builder and property developer, to discuss his journey from starting out as a young apprentice to becoming a seasoned developer with a focus on extensions, renovations, and new builds. Ian shares his insights on building a successful career in construction, managing challenges in the industry, and transitioning to new opportunities in property development. This episode is packed with advice for tradespeople, property investors, and aspiring developers. Episode Highlights: Starting From Humble Beginnings: Ian shares his early experiences as a school leaver, entering an apprenticeship at 16 and working in a variety of construction roles across Scotland.The lessons learned from his early days in construction, including respect, work ethic, and craftsmanship. The Transition to Self-Employment: Ian recounts the journey of going self-employed at a young age, taking on small jobs and building a reputation in the Hamilton area.The evolution from small-scale projects to larger extensions and renovations over the years. Key Challenges in the Industry: Labour shortages and the changing attitudes of workers over the decades.Managing customer expectations and navigating difficult clients.The importance of maintaining a reliable and skilled team. Mental Health and Resilience in Construction: Ian opens up about his struggles with burnout and the toll of balancing a demanding career with personal life.How goal-setting, self-development, and mental resilience helped him turn things around. Entering Property Development: Ian’s move into new build projects, starting with acquiring land, navigating planning permission, and tackling construction challenges.High-level insights into cost management, planning for contingencies, and learning from setbacks on new build sites. Tips for Aspiring Developers and Tradespeople: The importance of building strong relationships with agents, tradespeople, and suppliers.Why attention to detail, clear communication, and professionalism are key to long-term success.The value of diversifying projects, including exploring opportunities in commercial property. Whether you’re a tradesperson looking to expand your skills, an investor exploring development opportunities, or someone navigating the challenges of the building industry, Ian’s story offers valuable lessons on perseverance, professionalism, and the power of building strong relationships. Tune in to learn how you can apply these insights to your own journey! --------------------------------------------------------- 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
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    1 hr and 8 mins
  • The Harsh Reality of Building Million-Pound Homes in St. Andrews with Leigh Connolly
    Nov 18 2024
    In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, we sit down with Leigh Connelly, founder of Caraton Group, to discuss his inspiring journey in the property and construction industries. From humble beginnings as a teenager living on a farm to building luxury homes in St Andrews, Leigh shares the highs, lows, and lessons he’s learned along the way. With candid insights into property development, business resilience, and adapting to market changes, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in property investment or entrepreneurship. Episode Highlights: Humble Beginnings and Early Ventures: Leigh’s unconventional path to success started with a farming background and an early fascination with machinery and hard work.How he bought his first property at age 18 and used equity to fuel his initial investments. Overcoming Setbacks: Leigh opens up about facing financial challenges during the 2008 crash and how he navigated unexpected obstacles, including a Scottish referendum and changes in property taxation.The creative strategies he used to keep projects afloat, such as leveraging limited resources and maintaining optimism under pressure. Building in St Andrews: Insights into high-end property developments, including million-pound homes in one of Scotland’s most prestigious areas.The challenges of dealing with rising labour and material costs, and the lessons learned from working with contractors and planners. The Changing Face of Property Development: Leigh discusses the increasing difficulties in property development, from planning restrictions to labour shortages.Why he’s now focusing on consulting, exploring international opportunities in Dubai, and diversifying his investments. Opportunities in Dubai: An overview of the booming Dubai property market, offering yields of 8-12% and opportunities to buy off-plan properties with significant profit potential.Why Leigh believes Dubai’s growth is an attractive alternative to the UK market. Lessons for New Investors: Advice on taking calculated risks, learning from setbacks, and finding creative ways to fund projects.The importance of persistence, adaptability, and leveraging local networks in the property industry. Visit Carriden Plumbing & Heating and Carriden Developments for renovations and extensions or new builds. Website: https://carridengroup.co.uk/ Follow Leigh Connolly on LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/leigh-connolly-587233280 --------------------------------------------------------- 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
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    1 hr and 5 mins