The No Bullsh*t Property Podcast

Hosted by CERT

Business InvestingInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

Latest episode

Mar 2026

Language

EN-GB

About the show

Listen to The No Bullsh*t Property Podcast for an insight into our approach to transformative property management across the UK and how we’re building sustainable communities of the future. About CERT... We are transformative property managers, playing a pivotal role in creating community-focused places for people to live and work across the UK, in partnership with institutional investors, wealth managers, family offices and local authorities. Driven by a shared ambition to improve the built environment, we create, activate and operate inspiring spaces across residential and commercial property. Our approach goes beyond traditional management, focusing on long-term value, strong communities and places people genuinely want to be part of. We believe technology will shape the communities of the future. Our fully tech-enabled approach to property management simplifies the experience for residents and occupiers, while delivering a more transparent, insight-led service for our investment partners.

Listen to episodes

32 recent

March 6, 202621 min

S4E2 - Navigating the Renters Reform Act with Corinne Kearns, City Centre Chic

Welcome back to The No Bullsh*t Property Podcast!For Season 4 Episode 2, Paul is joined by Corinne from City Centre Chic to unpack one of the biggest shifts facing the rental market right now, the Renters Reform Act.Corinne shares her journey into the property sector and reflects on how the rental market has evolved over the past 16 years.They break down the key changes introduced by the new legislation, including the removal of Section 21, the move to periodic tenancies, new rules around rent reviews and tenant rights, and what it all means for landlords operating in a more regulated environment.The conversation also explores why professional property management is becoming more important than ever, how landlords can protect their assets through stronger systems and processes, and why the reforms could ultimately raise standards across the sector.Have something you want us to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.ukExplore our previous episodes to learn more about our approach to transformative property management across the UK and how we’re building sustainable communities. Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds) Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music]. Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 International Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

February 5, 2026Episode 135 min

S4E1 - What ‘Good Growth’ Really Means with Laura Blakey, GMCA

Welcome back to The No Bullsh*t Property Podcast! Howard and Paul kick off Season 4 with Laura Blakey, Director of Strategic Finance and Investment at the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, to unpack how public sector investment is shaping housing, regeneration, and growth across Greater Manchester.Laura shares her journey into local government and explains the thinking behind GMCA’s Good Growth Fund, why traditional funding models no longer work, and how widening viability gaps are changing the way places need to be delivered.They explore what “good growth” really means, from delivering new homes and prioritising social rent and energy efficiency, to supporting commercial space, innovation and employment across the region. The conversation also looks at the evolving role of Build to Rent, how it’s supporting regeneration beyond Manchester city centre, and why long-term investment and public sector support are key to making these places work.Have something you want us to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.ukCheck out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management.Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 InternationalVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

July 23, 202540 min

S3E4 - The Power of Placemaking in Modern Homes, Akeel Malik SURE Capital

Welcome back to The No Bullsh*t Property Podcast!In this episode Howard is joined by Akeel Malik, Partner at SURE Capital and Fund Manager of the Urban Splash Residential Fund, to explore the power of design-led rental homes and the importance of building communities that last.Akeel shares his journey into the property sector, the founding mission behind SURE Capital, and how his team is tackling the housing crisis with a focus on placemaking, sustainability, and operational excellence. Together, they unpack what it really takes to deliver purpose-built rental homes that prioritise resident experience, not just aesthetics.They discuss how well-designed amenities can benefit not just residents but the wider community as well. By incorporating local businesses into developments, rental homes become part of a larger neighborhood fabric, creating convenience for residents while creating a sense of pride and ownership in the area.They also chat about how good design can make a real difference to the way people live, and why putting residents first is key to long-term success. Howard and Akeel also reflect on the current economic climate and why creating better homes isn’t just good business, it's essential for the future of housing.Have something you want us to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.ukCheck out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management.Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 InternationalVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

May 30, 202537 min

S3E3 - Designing Healthier, Happier BTR with Ben Hall, LOFT

In this episode of the No Bullsh*t Property Podcast, we welcome back Ben Hall, the owner and founder of LOFT, to talk about how interior design can shape healthier, more inclusive Build-to-Rent communities.Ben joins Howard and Paul to explore how flexible, multifunctional amenity spaces can encourage community, reduce social isolation, and respond to what residents actually want. Together, they discuss how the design of shared spaces has evolved and why simply adding more features isn’t always the answer.From biophilic design and sound-absorbing materials to layouts that encourage calm, connection, and comfort, Ben shares with Howard and Paul how LOFT is helping developers rethink the role of interiors in modern BTR living.They also cover the importance of designing with empathy, listening to residents, and creating practical, inclusive spaces that get used whether it is a yoga studio by day and event space by night, or a room supporting everything from seminars to socialising.Have something you want us to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.ukCheck out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management. Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 InternationalVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

April 30, 2025Episode 238 min

S3E2 - Shaping the future of BTR, with Dougie Orton-Wade

In this episode, Paul and Howard sit down with Dougie Orton-Wade, our newly appointed Head of Build-to-Rent, to talk about the future of BTR at CERT, and how we’re doing things differently.In this conversation they discuss the evolution of the sector and the importance of creating sustainable, thriving communities. Dougie shares how CERT is focused on going beyond traditional expectations, prioritising both the resident experience and investor returns to create developments that stand the test of time.They also dive into the growing importance of tenant satisfaction, the need for smart, flexible property management, and how CERT Life, our tech-enabled platform, is helping us build stronger communities through seamless, smarter living.Have something you want us to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.ukCheck out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management. Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 InternationalVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

April 7, 2025Episode 131 min

S3E1 - Making Utilities Sexy with Gary Stewart, Otto

Welcome back to the No Bullsh*t Property Podcast. Howard and Paul are kicking off Season 3 with a deep dive into commercial utility prices, and their growing impact on businesses and landlords, joined by guest Gary Stewart from Otto.Discover how the intersection of government policy and energy efficiency is reshaping property investment strategies, and explore the potential of super smart meters as a cost-effective solution for reducing energy consumption.Gary offers practical strategies to reduce utility costs, highlighting the influence of geopolitical events and financial interest rates on energy costs. From contract planning to innovative solutions, they explore ways to navigate the new complexities of energy management. Have something you want to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.uk.Check out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management.Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 International Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

November 14, 2024Episode 636 min

S2E6 - Adapting Professional Property Management to Political Change with Paul Nicholson

Howard and Paul are joined this week by Paul Nicholson from the Nicolson Group for a deep dive into the day-to-day realities of a professional landlord in today’s shifting property landscape. Nicholson Group acquires unloved, derelict buildings and brings them back to life as efficiently designed modern homes that honour each building’s heritage.They begin by exploring the recent changes brought by the new Labour government, including increase in funding for affordable housing and support for small and medium-sized developers. Paul and Howard discuss how these reforms, the Autumn budget, and wider property legislation, will affect the market, particularly for SME developers who face challenges in an industry dominated by larger players.The conversation then shifts to the challenges of property management, especially with recent legislative changes like the Renters' Rights Bill and the Building Safety Act. Paul highlights the opportunity these reforms bring to elevate industry standards, encouraging smaller landlords to explore professional management solutions that can support them with the added administrative responsibilities.The episode also explores strategies for succeeding in the rental market, particularly with the upcoming abolition of Section 21. Paul shares legal insights on navigating administrative challenges and finding emerging investment locations. He highlights the importance of skilled managing agents and discusses innovative strategies, like offering nil rent for commercial units to curate the ideal tenant mix, all crucial for meeting the evolving expectations of tenants in cities like Liverpool and Manchester.Have something you want to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.uk.Check out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management.Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 International Video Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

October 30, 2024Episode 533 min

S2E5 - How Hospitality has Transformed Manchester’s Neighbourhoods with Gemma Krysko, We Are Indigo

Join Paul and Howard as they sit down with Gemma Krysko, founder of We Are Indigo, to explore the dynamic evolution of Manchester’s hospitality scene and its impact on urban regeneration.Gemma shares her journey into PR and discusses the transformative shifts in hospitality, emphasising how strategic urban planning and unique venues can enhance neighbourhoods. The conversation highlights the importance of creating memorable, in-person experiences and the vital role of collaboration among developers, local authorities, and creative professionals in fostering vibrant community spaces.As they delve into the challenges and opportunities within the hospitality industry, Gemma provides valuable insights on how a shared vision among stakeholders can lead to successful placemaking and revitalisation. Have something you want to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.uk.Check out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management.Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 InternationalVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

September 26, 2024Episode 448 min

S2E4 - Development Finance and the Art of Matchmaking with Jack Poxon & Tom Bamber, Graphene Commercial Finance

In this episode of the No Bullsh*t Property Podcast, we’re taking a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities in the property development finance market, with the expertise of our guests Jack Poxon and Tom Bamber from Graphene Commercial Finance.With backgrounds in banking and finance, Jack and Tom offer insights into the fragmented world of development finance, exploring the advantages and drawbacks of having diverse funding options.We delve into the obstacles of securing development finance in today’s high-interest-rate environment and stress the importance of local market knowledge. Jack and Tom also discuss the crucial role brokers play in navigating this complex space, offering practical advice for both lenders and developers.The conversation looks ahead to the future, including the growth of green lending initiatives and the slow embrace of technology in real estate finance. We also explore the art of matchmaking between borrowers and lenders, discussing how finding the right fit can make all the difference in securing funding. Finally, we wrap up the episode by examining how SME developers can break through barriers to entry, especially when it comes to building a strong track record.Have something you want to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.uk.Check out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management.Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 InternationalVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s

August 1, 2024Episode 345 min

S2E3 - Has the time come for Viability Superheroes? Matt Spilsbury, CBRE

Join Howard and Paul as they dive into the topic of viability as part of the planning application process. Special guest Matt Spilsbury from CBRE joins them to unravel the complexities of viability assessments amidst current proposed planning reforms.Planning is a hot topic for Labour’s newly formed Government, particularly the reintroduction of housing targets on the agenda. Howard, Paul, and guest Matt Spilsbury provide insights into how these political changes may impact the delivery of new homes. The conversation continues with how the viability assessment has evolved to become one of the key elements of a planning application, with stricter guidelines and professional standards, ensuring greater transparency and regulation. Matt shares insights on how this transparency builds trust and standardises assessments, making the process more reliable for everyone involved.They also address the challenges of stakeholder understanding and the potential need for a new wave of ‘viability superheroes’ to navigate these reforms effectively. Tune in to gain essential insights into how political shifts are transforming the viability process in development projects amidst economic challenges.Have something you want to discuss? Send us an email to info@certproperty.co.uk.Check out our previous episodes to give you the inside track on the ever-growing build to rent sector, and our unique approach to community building and property management.Song: Sexy Fashion Beats (No Copyright Sounds)Music provided by NCM [No Copyright Music].Creative Commons - Attribution 3.0 Unported | Attribution 4.0 InternationalVideo Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HRjXnQvDvIo&t=0s