This Week In Property Podcast

Hosted by Richard Swan This Week in Property

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100

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Jul 2026

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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.

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July 24, 202641 min

Grade B, Zero Fear: Inside Jason Kelly's Huge Eaglesham Refurb

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/jason-kelly Some investors run a mile from the words "listed building". Jason Kelly runs towards them. In today's episode, Richard heads out to Eaglesham, East Renfrewshire, to walk the site of Jason's latest project: a Grade B listed former sheriff's house, built in the 1600s, sitting inside what became Scotland's first conservation area, designated back in 1960. It's a world away from the £35k flat in Wishaw that gave Jason his start, but the fundamentals, he says, haven't changed. This is an assisted sale. The owner inherited the house from parents, who bought it in 1953. Planning permission was held for years but the owner never had the funds to use it. Jason has structured a deal that works for everyone involved. None of it is Jason's own cash. Two investors have funded the £150k refurb between them for a fixed return, one of them a fellow member of the PMW community learning the ropes by getting hands-on with a live project. Jason has taken security over the asset to protect them, and pays referral and agent fees along the way, because, as he puts it, "you're speculating to accumulate." Inside the refurb Hear Jason explain why listed building consent, and three or four months of due diligence with architects and building control before he even negotiated the deal, "doesn't give him the fear" the way it puts off so many other investors. Listen to him walk through the back extension that adds a second bathroom (the house only ever had one, upstairs), the retaining walls and terraced flowerbeds transforming a steep, overgrown garden into lawn and patio, and the archaeologist-witnessed dig required before any groundwork could even start. Hear the cost trade-offs play out in real time: sash and case windows kept at the front to match the street, wood-effect PVC at the back to save roughly half of a £25k window bill, GRP roofing in place of slate or zinc on the flat sections, and a full switch from oil to gas heating via a new SGN connection and boiler. Listen to Jason talk about reinstating the original fireplace with a log burner, keeping and repairing the house's ornate cornice work using a mould salvaged from the property itself, and sourcing reclaimed doors from Glasgow's architectural salvage yard for his other projects. Hear how a simple, neutral colour palette and a professional stager help the finished house appeal to the widest possible pool of buyers, and how reworking the existing layout adds a fourth bedroom to the listing without laying a single extra brick. And listen to Jason and Richard talk candidly about risk, about why every project he's bought has been unoccupied, and about the "tribe" of investors he now brings through his projects to learn, hands-on, the way he once did himself. Jason on Facebook Jason on Instagram Jason on LinkedIn

July 29, 202550 min

From Hospitality to High-Yield Homes: How This Sibling Team Built a £10m Property Portfolio

https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/proper-tay/ In this episode of This Week In Property, we sit down with sister-brother team Michelle de Almeida and Paul Laurie; two dynamic property investors whose journey from hospitality burnout to a booming multi-million-pound property business is anything but ordinary. Michelle spent two decades in the high-pressure world of hospitality before pivoting into business consultancy and eventually property investment. Paul racked up 30 years in the same industry before joining forces with his sister. Together, they've built a thriving property business that now boasts a GDV pipeline in excess of £10 million. Their journey is rooted in grit, realism, and a lot of legwork. Paul is methodical. He views up to 40 properties just to land one viable deal, sticking firmly to numbers that work. Michelle, meanwhile, brings a strategic mindset, treating property as a business from day one and managing investor relations, finance, and branding with precision. They've funded their deals through their own resources, private investors and by reinvesting every penny back into their business. Their approach is refreshingly honest: no fluff, just hard work, strategic growth, and ethical decision-making. Whether it's helping a struggling vendor move on or investing £40,000 in top-end furniture for their serviced accommodation brand Luxe Escapes, Michelle and Paul aim to raise the standard—not just meet it. They're not chasing volume for the sake of it either. The goal? 200 property "keys" and a flexible 10-year runway. They've already expanded into high-end SA, are negotiating on hotel projects, and even eyeing the English market for planning advantages. Oh, and Michelle just signed her first international speaking gig in Dubai! This is a candid, motivating conversation about ambition, setbacks, tough decisions, and what it really takes to turn property into a scalable, ethical, and profitable business. If you're looking to move beyond theory and hear how real investors are making it work on the ground - this episode is well worth your time. CONNECT WITH THE SHOW'S GUESTS: Proper-Tay Wealth Facebook: CLICK HERE Instagram: CLICK HERE Luxe Escapes UK Website: CLICK HERE Instagram: CLICK HERE MDA Business Coaching Website: CLICK HERE Facebook: CLICK HERE Instagram: CLICK HERE Utili-Tay Website: CLICK HERE https://www.thisweekinproperty.tv/proper-tay/

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/