This Week In Property Podcast

Hosted by Richard Swan This Week in Property

Business InvestingInterviews guests

Website RSS feed

Episodes

100

Latest episode

Jul 2025

Language

About the show

Stay current, relevant, and up-to-date in the world of property investment. Weekly property news and interviews with the UK's leading property professionals and entrepreneurs. Grow your property business, with Richard Swan and guests.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

July 3, 202530 min

From Flips to Fortunes: Brandon Rickman on Building Real Estate with Heart

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/brandon-rickman/ In this episode of This Week in Property, Richard sits down with Brandon Rickman, a seasoned real estate investor from Atlanta, Georgia, whose journey spans 25 years, over 500 flips, 100 new builds, and a sprawling 115,000-square-foot self-storage facility. But this isn't just a tale of transactions. It's one of service, strategy, and substance. Brandon's roots in real estate run deep. Growing up on job sites with his developer father, he learned how to build houses before he learned to drive. That hands-on experience gave him the skills, and confidence, to start flipping homes with his wife, a former maths teacher. What began as a way to earn extra income quickly evolved into a full-scale business doing over a hundred houses a year. But Brandon's approach is far from transactional. Over time, he and his team transformed their operation into a real estate services company, focused on solving people's problems; not just making a profit. Whether it's direct-to-seller deals through direct mail and cold calling, structuring flexible offers, or guiding families through emotionally charged probate sales, Brandon's ethos is clear: help first, deal second. The conversation covers some hard-earned lessons too, like the 2008 crash that saw his bank financing pulled overnight, teaching him the value of private money and investor trust. He breaks down the three types of funding he relies on,, explaining why personal relationships trump paperwork every time. Richard and Brandon also explore the differences between UK and US property systems, particularly in planning and permitting, and why Brandon sees self-storage as a smarter play for long-term wealth. His current facility has 865 units, with only two bathrooms and minimal headaches, proving that passive income can be practical too. This episode is packed with insights for investors at all levels. Whether you're sourcing off-market deals, considering private finance, or thinking long-term about generational wealth. Brandon's story is about more than property; it's about building something that lasts, with integrity, purpose, and a human touch. 🎧 Listen in to hear how Brandon Rickman has built a business that's as much about people as it is about property, and why that might just be the key to lasting success. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW'S GUEST: website: https://www.theflipgenius.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theflipgenius YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfQGTzF6JvH4qqT_V8Lx2cw LINKS AND RESOURCES Catch-up and subscribe through iTunes Paul McFadden Wealth. Property Protege

June 16, 202535 min

Breathing New Life Into Old Walls: Wayne Douglas (City & Country)

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/wayne-douglas/ In today's episode, we site down with Wayne Douglas, Managing Director of City & Country, for a conversation that blends heritage, housing, and hope for the UK property industry. From humble beginnings shadowing his carpenter father, Wayne's path into housebuilding took a different route; through numbers and finance. But it's clear that passion for quality construction runs deep. He shares how he joined City & Country nearly two decades ago when it was a 40-person firm turning over £10 million. Today, the company turns over almost £100 million and has carved out a niche preserving and repurposing Britain's historic buildings. What sets City & Country apart? Their commitment to quality, placemaking, and architectural integrity. Wayne talks about how converting heritage buildings - once used by councils, police, or the MOD - into desirable homes is not just a business model, but a way of safeguarding national identity. It's also about practicality: multiple residential units ensure service charges are sustainable and buildings are maintained to a high standard. But the conversation isn't all rosy nostalgia. Wayne speaks candidly about the challenges facing smaller developers: planning delays, rising finance costs, regulation burdens, and the collapse of SME builders. He makes a compelling case for greater government support, particularly in the form of planning certainty and more nuanced schemes beyond just first-time buyers. Downsizers and upsizers, he argues, need support too if the housing market is to move again. This is a must-listen for anyone in property development or housing policy. Wayne brings a grounded, strategic view of what it really takes to get Britain building again; without sacrificing quality or history. 🔗 Check the show notes for links to City & Country's developments and heritage projects, including their ambitious conversions of former jails in Gloucester, Dorchester, and Somerset. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW'S GUEST: website: https://www.cityandcountry.co.uk/ insta: https://www.instagram.com/city_andcountry/ youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCwW1ijUHLabxbX7MIMNzBDA https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/wayne-douglas/

May 26, 20251 hr 8 min

From Burnout to Breakthrough: How Lynne & Alan Are Redefining Success

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/lynne-alan Today, on This Week In Property, Richard is joined by Lynne McMaster and Alan McDonald—two entrepreneurs with very different backstories but a shared mission to build meaningful, values-driven businesses in the world of property. Lynne opens up about her path from customer service and family life to what was nearly a career in funeral care. After facing some deeply personal tragedies, she found herself seeking not just a business, but a way to give back. What began as a search for premises for a funeral home eventually shifted into property investment after attending a Jumpstart event with her partner Grant. That detour turned into a full-on career change, one that's now giving her both purpose and flexibility around her family. Alan's story contrasts but complements Lynne's. From being a chef and a senior manager in the motor trade to discovering the power of serviced accommodation, he talks candidly about the burnout that came with a "good salary" and the realisation that time—not money—was the most valuable thing he could reclaim. His move into property was motivated by a desire for a better life, one where he could actually see his kids grow up. Together, Lynne and Alan now co-host their own podcast, Business Exposed, born from a chance encounter at a property networking event. They use it as a platform to showcase the raw, real side of business—the struggles, the insecurities, the hard-earned wins—and to give back in a way that's honest and impactful. The conversation is rich with reflections on work-life balance, parenting, mindset, the failures of the traditional education system, and the cultural quirks that hold people back in the UK. It's about finding your fire, and then building a life and business that keeps it burning. This episode is a must-listen for anyone at a career crossroads or looking to reshape their definition of success. It's full of the kind of truths that hit home—and might just give you the nudge to make your next bold move. https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/lynne-alan

May 19, 202534 min

Bacon & Co tackle the Renters' Reform Bill and the future of lettings

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/bacon/ n this enlightening episode of This Week in Property, Richard sits down with Julie West and Hayley Scammell from Sussex's leading estate agency, Bacon & Co, to discuss the much-debated Renters' Reform Bill and its sweeping implications for landlords, tenants, and letting agents alike. Julie and Hayley bring a wealth of experience, having weathered the highs and lows of the property market for decades. From Hayley's early days earning £25 a week to Julie's transition from landlord to agency founder, both have a deep understanding of the lettings landscape and the challenges it faces. The discussion opens by addressing the wave of anxiety the Renters' Reform Bill has stirred in the landlord community. While tenants generally perceive the bill as a win for their rights and security, landlords fear increased difficulty in regaining possession of their properties, especially when dealing with problematic tenants. Yet, Julie and Hayley are quick to reassure: the core of responsible letting remains unchanged, and most landlords—true long-term investors—are in the business to maintain positive, lasting relationships with tenants. The trio delves into key elements of the bill, including the phasing out of Section 21 "no-fault" evictions, updates to notice periods, and the introduction of grounds-based possession. They also unpack concerns over the readiness of the court system to handle an expected increase in disputes and how new tribunal services might ease the load... https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/bacon/

May 10, 202546 min

Cost, Control & Conversions: Why Jake Suthers is Every Developer's Secret Weapon

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/jake-suthers/ Are you intrigued by the behind-the-scenes magic that keeps property development projects on track? In the latest episode of This Week In Property, Richard sits down with Jake Suthers, the dynamic founder of The QS Company, to unravel the critical role of quantity surveying (QS) in the property world. This engaging conversation is packed with insights, anecdotes, and practical advice that will leave you eager to dive into the full episode. Jake's journey is anything but ordinary. From cutting his teeth in London's corporate construction scene to managing mega-projects in Dubai's glittering skyline, Jake's path to founding The QS Company is a story of ambition and adaptability. He shares how a chance connection through Paul McFadden's Property Protege training sparked a mindset shift, propelling him from the safety of corporate life to the exhilarating world of entrepreneurship. But what exactly does a quantity surveyor do? Jake breaks it down, revealing how QS professionals are the unsung heroes who ensure projects stay financially viable, from initial feasibility to final construction. The episode shines a spotlight on Jake's 5-Step Framework, a process that demystifies cost control and risk management. Whether you're a seasoned developer or a curious newcomer, Jake's analogies—likening contractor selection to dating and contracts to prenups—make complex concepts accessible and entertaining. He also hints at the current market's hidden opportunities, like distressed assets and half-finished projects, teasing strategies for savvy investors to turn challenges into profits. Beyond the technical, Jake's warmth and authenticity shine through. He candidly discusses balancing a thriving business with family life, sharing relatable struggles that resonate with anyone juggling work and home. His experiences in Dubai, working on projects like a Mercedes-Benz-branded showroom, add a touch of glamour, while his return to the UK to start a family grounds the conversation in real-world decisions. Jake also emphasises the power of communication in navigating the web of architects, contractors, and funders, offering a glimpse into the human side of property development. This episode is a must-listen for anyone curious about property investment, development, or the art of cost management. Jake's expertise delivers a perfect blend of education and entertainment. Want to know how to avoid costly pitfalls in your next project? Curious about the opportunities hiding in today's market? Don't miss out—listen to the full episode to uncover the details of Jake's journey, his practical tips for developers, and the secrets to mastering the art of quantity surveying. Your next property venture might just depend on it! https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/jake-suthers/

May 6, 202549 min

Bringing Order to Chaos: Chris Dowty (Sourcing Investments)

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/chris-dowty/ On today's show, Richard sits down with Chris Dowty — entrepreneur, fintech innovator, and the founder of Sourcing Investments — for a candid conversation that spans continents, careers, and a few eyebrow-raising property plays. Speaking from his base in Bali (yes, he really lives there), Chris takes us on a journey from his early days in corporate life with Intel to diving headfirst into the unpredictable world of UK property. What started as a frustrated leap out of a safe but stifling career eventually snowballed into an ambitious mission: to build structure, trust, and transparency in the property sourcing industry — and to solve the very real problems faced by both investors and sourcing agents. For Property Investors: A Platform Built Around Trust One of the most common complaints from UK and international property investors is a lack of confidence in the sourcing process. Chris saw this firsthand. Too many investors were unsure who to trust, worried about compliance, or worse — burned by rogue agents. That's why Sourcing Investments was designed from the ground up as a secure, transparent ecosystem. Investors using the platform gain access to: Pre-vetted sourcing agents with full compliance handled in-house Verified deals from across the UK, professionally packaged Escrow services that hold sourcing fees until deals are completed Direct links to trusted power team members — brokers, lawyers, surveyors, and more A fully digital platform that supports safe, efficient property transactions If you've ever wished for a property investment experience that felt more like Amazon than a backroom deal, this might be exactly what you've been looking for. For Sourcing Agents: The Business-in-a-Box You Didn't Know You Needed Sourcing agents often face their own uphill battles: compliance headaches, limited visibility, lack of tech tools, and the dreaded hunt for serious investors. Chris and his team have created what many would call a business-in-a-box solution for sourcing agents trying to operate professionally and profitably. Onboarding with Sourcing Investments gives agents: Full compliance coverage (Insurance, AML, ICO, Ombudsman, and more) Access to 25,000+ active investors A white-label website to showcase deals under their own brand Marketing support and back-end systems that free up time to source deals Insurance, contracts, and even escrow accounts — all taken care of No more wrestling with regulation or feeling isolated in a sea of noise — Sourcing Investments offers real infrastructure for agents who want to scale. Why This Episode is a Must-Listen Chris doesn't hold back in this episode. From the mindset behind his first seven-bed student conversion in Plymouth (before en-suites were even "a thing") to the hard decisions around building and later scaling back a £15K monthly expensive tech platform, the conversation is packed with lessons on innovation, resilience, and market fit. You'll also hear how the property world — from lenders to lawyers to lettings agents — is still riddled with inefficiencies. Chris' solution? Stop waiting for change and build it yourself. Whether you're a seasoned investor looking for a smarter way to find deals or an aspiring sourcing agent ready to go pro, Chris' story — and the platform he's built — offers practical value and a lot of inspiration. Ready to hear how the future of UK property sourcing is being built today? Listen to the full episode of This Week In Property now. https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/chris-dowty/

April 1, 20251 hr 0 min

Breathing New Life into Grey Harlings Hotel: A Bold Redevelopment in Montrose

The latest episode of This Week In Property takes listeners on a fascinating journey into the world of property redevelopment, featuring an ambitious project set in the scenic coastal town of Montrose, Scotland. Host Richard sits down with three key figures and former individual guests on the podcast—Andrew Lindsay, David Liddell, and Taylor McDonald—who are spearheading the transformation of the historic Grey Harlings Hotel. Their conversation is packed with insights, challenges, and inspiring moments, making this episode a must-listen for property investors, developers, and anyone passionate about revitalising historic spaces. Why Grey Harlings? Why Montrose? For those unfamiliar with Montrose, this charming town, nestled along Scotland's rugged northeast coast, boasts stunning seaside views, a deep sense of history, and a strong local community. However, like many towns with historic architecture, maintaining and modernising key properties is essential for keeping the area vibrant and attractive. The Grey Harlings Hotel, once a beloved establishment, had reached a point where it required significant investment and vision to restore its full potential. Enter Andrew, David, and Taylor—three developers with a shared passion for bringing new life to old buildings. But what made them choose this specific property? What opportunities did they see that others may have overlooked? Without giving too much away, their insights into location, market potential, and strategic investment are invaluable for anyone interested in property development. The Challenges of Redevelopment Taking on a historic building is never a straightforward process. In the episode, the team reveals some of the unexpected obstacles they faced—from planning permissions and structural surprises to the intricate balancing act of maintaining character while integrating modern design elements. Anyone who has ever embarked on a renovation project, big or small, will relate to their stories of hidden costs, timeline shifts, and the delicate negotiation between preserving history and meeting contemporary standards. But beyond the technicalities, their discussion highlights the deeper challenges of development: understanding community needs, engaging with other local businesses, and making bold decisions that will shape the future of the site. A Vision for the Future While the full details of the transformation are best heard directly from the team, one thing is clear—their plans for the Grey Harlings Hotel are as inspiring as they are ambitious. They aren't just giving an old building a facelift; they are creating a space with renewed purpose, designed to serve both locals and visitors alike. What does the future hold for this landmark property? How will the team's choices impact the Montrose community? And what lessons can other property investors take from their experience? These are just a few of the tantalising questions raised in the episode. Why You Should Tune In Whether you're a seasoned property investor, a budding developer, or simply someone who enjoys stories of transformation and perseverance, this episode offers something for everyone. The passion and expertise of Andrew, David, and Taylor shine through, making for an engaging and insightful discussion. If you want to hear first-hand how they navigated the twists and turns of this ambitious project—and pick up some valuable property development wisdom along the way—be sure to listen to this episode of This Week In Property. The Grey Harlings Hotel is on the brink of an exciting new chapter, and you won't want to miss the inside story... https://thisweekinproperty.tv/grey-harlings/

March 10, 202529 min

When property investing: find the pearls not the lemons...

For anyone looking to break into property investment or scale their portfolio, the latest episode of This Week in Property is a goldmine of insight. Host Richard sits down with Charles Whitehead, the driving force behind Pearl Lemon Properties, to discuss the evolving landscape of property investment—and why the right strategy can make all the difference. From Personal Struggles to Professional Success Charles's journey into property investment started like many others—as a busy professional struggling to find the right properties and reliable advice. What began as a personal mission to simplify the investment process has since grown into Pearl Lemon Properties, a premium sourcing company known for its hands-on approach and transparent service. Whether it's buy-to-let, HMOs, refurbishments, or even international investments, Charles and his team guide clients every step of the way. Beyond the Buzzwords: Real Investment Strategies That Work The podcast dives into some of the myths surrounding property investment—like the obsession with "below market value" deals. As Charles explains, a true investment isn't just about the price tag—it's about long-term value, sustainability, and fitting the right property to the investor's personal goals. From helping first-time investors get their foot on the ladder to building high-yield portfolios for seasoned buyers, Pearl Lemon's approach is refreshingly honest and results-driven. Harnessing Data and Technology One of the standout takeaways from the conversation is how Pearl Lemon Properties leverages technology to drive smarter investment decisions. From analysing crime rates to predicting rental yields and understanding tenant demographics, Charles highlights how data-driven insights give investors an undeniable edge. Tailored Support from Start to Finish What truly sets Pearl Lemon Properties apart is its bespoke service. The company doesn't just hand over property leads—they start with a discovery call, understand each client's short- and long-term goals, and tailor investment strategies accordingly. As Charles puts it, "There's no perfect deal—there's a great deal for you, and that's what we focus on." Whether you're curious about HMOs, considering flipping properties, or even eyeing international investments in Italy, Spain or the States, this episode is packed with practical advice and real-world examples. Charles's candid insights into market trends, investment pitfalls, and the future of UK property make it clear why Pearl Lemon Properties has earned its stellar reputation... https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/pearl-lemon/

December 17, 202447 min

Rosevale Letting: a tailored approach to property letting…

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/rosevale Are you a landlord, tenant, or someone intrigued by the ever-changing property world? Then the latest episode of This Week in Property is for you. Riccardo Giovanacci, the managing director of Rosevale Letting, joins Richard for an insightful discussion that blends personal stories, industry wisdom, and practical advice. From Humble Beginnings to Lettings Expert Riccardo's journey started in Greenock, a town just outside Glasgow, where he learned the ropes of property from family influences and early work experiences. His rise to success wasn't an overnight story but one built on hard work, learning from mentors, and embracing opportunities. In his words, adaptability and a willingness to seize the moment were the keys to building his business. Navigating a Changing Lettings Market Riccardo delves into the challenges and opportunities of Scotland's property market, particularly with ever-evolving legislation. He sheds light on the Private Residential Tenancy (PRT) system and explains how Rosevale Letting adapted quickly to ensure compliance. While many landlords viewed regulatory changes as hurdles, Riccardo and his team saw them as a chance to stand out, offering landlords a seamless service while protecting tenants. Why Landlords Need Great Letting Agents One of the podcast's highlights is Riccardo's perspective on the value letting agents bring to landlords. He stresses that managing a property is far more than collecting rent — it's about compliance, tenant relationships, and market expertise. With ever-tightening regulations, he explains how letting agents save landlords time, stress, and costly mistakes. The Rosevale Difference What makes Rosevale Letting stand out? According to Riccardo, it's their tailored approach to clients. Whether working with accidental landlords managing a single property or investors with extensive portfolios, Rosevale prioritises trust, communication, and customised solutions. Riccardo emphasises the importance of harmony — not just within his team but also in the relationships they foster with landlords and tenants. Leadership That Inspires Riccardo's leadership style is rooted in authenticity and relationships. Throughout the episode, he shares his thoughts on building a supportive team, balancing work with family life, and staying true to core values. For him, success isn't just about profits — it's about fostering trust and delivering on promises. Why You Should Listen This episode is a must-listen for: • Landlords looking to understand the value of professional letting agents. • Tenants who want insights into navigating Scotland's rental market. • Entrepreneurs seeking inspiration from Riccardo's story of hard work and resilience. • Property enthusiasts curious about the challenges and opportunities in today's market. Key Takeaways 1. Adapt to Change: Success in property comes from embracing challenges like new legislation and market trends. 2. Focus on People: Building strong relationships is at the heart of a successful business. 3. Learn From Experience: Riccardo's journey highlights the importance of mentorship and continuous learning. 4. Balance Is Key: Long-term growth requires a focus on strategy, harmony, and well-being. Tune In for the Full Story Riccardo's passion for property and his team's dedication to excellence are central themes throughout this podcast. Hear how he built Rosevale Letting, his thoughts on the future of the market, and the practical lessons that can transform how you approach property letting. Don't miss this inspiring episode of This Week in Property. Listen now and discover why Riccardo Giovanacci is a name to know in Scotland's property scene… https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/rosevale

October 28, 202444 min

David Liddell: From 1 BTL to a Family-Run Hospitality Empire...

In today's show we turn on the big spotlight again - the Property Pros Spotlight! Where we bring someone into the studio and hear the story of their property journey. Where they've came from, what they've done, chat about their deals, and learn what kind of business they have grown. And today's guest, David Liddell, is the perfect example of what is possible in the world of property. Known for his dynamic approach to property, David is a seasoned investor and developer with a background in engineering who has found remarkable success by harnessing his analytic skills, adapting his approach, and embracing risk. In this inspiring interview, David shares the journey that led him to property investment and the lessons he's gathered along the way. David's career began in offshore engineering, a field he initially pursued for financial stability but found lacking in fulfillment. After a near move to Australia that fell through during the pandemic, David redirected his career, using capital from a former property sale to dive into property investment. A key takeaway from the conversation is David's transition from over-analysing deals, a habit from his engineering days, to a more balanced approach that combines thoughtful diligence with decisive action. This change, as he explains, was instrumental in allowing him to expand his portfolio and take on larger, more complex projects. The conversation also touches on David's strategic shift into service accommodation, which has allowed him to establish a profitable, scalable business model. David shares the challenges and rewards of this niche, particularly in the Scottish market, where demand for short-term accommodations offers attractive returns. For David, service accommodation isn't just about property; it's about creating memorable experiences for guests and supporting the local community through job creation and collaboration with nearby businesses. As Richard and David discuss David's current ventures, including several large-scale commercial conversions, it becomes clear that his journey is far from over. With ambitious plans for growth and a clear focus on hospitality, David is poised to reshape his business and further refine his investment strategies. His plans to take these projects international, alongside his personal goal to balance family life with business, make for an inspiring vision of the future. Listeners interested in property investment, service accommodation, or simply looking for a story of ambition and grit won't want to miss this episode. David's passion and wisdom make for an enlightening and motivational listen, offering valuable insights for both seasoned investors and newcomers alike. Tune in to hear the full interview and follow David's exciting journey as he continues to push the boundaries in property investment... https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/david-liddell/?el=TWIP