Lets Talk with Citylets

In episode 99, Gillian speaks with Kevin Watson, Operations and Commercial Director at Platform_, a leader in both Build to Rent (BTR) and Mid-Market Rent properties. Kevin talks through Platform_'s integrated model, combining asset management, property management, and landlord responsibilities, which sets them apart in the Scottish rental market. We look into the growing demand for their Mid-Market Rent properties in Scotland, how they're addressing the gap between affordable housing and the open market, and the challenges of catering to different tenant needs across Edinburgh and Glasgow. Kevin also shares insights on their BTR developments, including high-spec design, sustainability efforts, and how they communicate value to tenants despite price differences. With discussions on location choices, rent controls, and the future of sustainability, this episode explores how Platform_ is reshaping the rental landscape in Scotland.

In episode 98, we're joined by Chris Cockburn of Let It, who shares his journey from studying music to working in property and even competing in Mini Cooper racing! We explore the latest trends in West Scotland's rental market, the importance of great property photography, and key challenges facing landlords and letting agents today. Chris also takes us behind the scenes of motorsport, discussing what it takes to compete and how his passion for racing has shaped his career.

In episode 97, Wendy Gallagher, Managing Director of One Stop Properties, shares advice on navigating the evolving rental market in Glasgow, as well as valuable tips on property investment. Wendy discusses her career journey, common landlord-tenant issues, and insights on neighbourhood demand shifts. She also covers energy efficiency upgrades, recent legislative changes, and strategies for long-term investment success.

Scotland's Housing Bill and Market Trends: Expert Advice from Laura Chapman of Chapmans by Lets Talk

In episode 95, we meet Nicky McConnachie, often referred to as the "Mary Poppins of the Property Industry" and the founder of 29Twelve, a boutique consultancy specialising in property sourcing and vacant home management. Nicky shares her journey across industries and countries, and the inspiration behind 29Twelve, as well as how her tailored approach sets the company apart. Nicky explains how 29Twelve sources on-and off-market properties and how they achieve an exceptional level of care when managing their vacant homes portfolio.

In episode 94, Timothy Douglas, Head of Policy and Campaigns at Propertymark, joins us to explore key challenges facing Scotland's private rented sector ahead of the Scottish Budget. We discuss how recent legislation, such as the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act and the increased Land and Buildings Transaction Tax, is impacting landlord investment and market stability. Timothy shares insights into Propertymark's recommendations for encouraging PRS investment over rent control, supporting affordable housing and addressing broader economic implications, such as workforce mobility and housing affordability. This episode is essential listening for anyone interested in Scotland's housing policy and rental market trends.

Whether you're new to renting in Scotland, moving here for the first time, or just stepping out on your own, episode 93 of Lets Talk covers some of the most frequently asked questions from tenants. We'll also discuss the Scottish lettings market, with a special focus on Edinburgh; exploring the most affordable areas to rent in the capital…and who better to discuss this with than Nicky Lloyd, Head of Lettings at ESPC.

Episode 93 features Jacqueline Omoniyi, a seasoned property expert and Education and Training Officer at Under One Roof Scotland. Jacqueline shares her career journey across various roles in the Scottish housing sector, and talks about the mission and services of Under One Roof. She discusses the significance of owners' associations, including key proposals from the Scottish Law Commission, and practical advice for setting up and managing these associations. Jacqueline also touches on the legal obligations of ‘Duty to Maintain' enforced under the Tenements (Scotland) Act 2004, and offers her personal reflections on the property industry during her maternity leave.

In episode 92, Ann Leslie, CEO of Lar Housing Trust, discusses the completion of the St Kentigern's Rope Walk development in Edinburgh, including the challenges of working with a historical building and Lar's commitment to sustainability. We explore Lar's group structure, its partnership with RSBi to support social enterprises, and how they balance affordability with financial sustainability. Ann also shares insights into Lar's recent and upcoming developments, her views on the mid-market rent landscape in Scotland, and advice for women balancing career and family life.

In episode 91, Louise Amos, Director of Lismore Asset Management, shares insights from her extensive career in the property industry, focusing on Lismore's specialised services, including Build to Rent (BTR) consultancy. Louise discusses the challenges facing BTR development in Scotland, the impact of recent legislative changes, and strategies to attract investment back into the sector. She also highlights Lismore's unique approach to property management, consultancy, and collaboration with companies like Urban Bubble.

Episode 90 of Lets Talk features Daryl McIntosh, CEO of Share, talking about the organisation's recent ventures and initiatives. Daryl discusses Share's expansion into the private rented sector, the creation of a learning portal for tenants, and the launch of a mentoring program to support the Scottish housing industry. He also discusses the benefits of the new Scottish Factoring Network and its impact on the housing sector.

Episode 89 features Lizzie McGhie, Lettings Negotiator with C~urb PSL (Private Sector Leasing) part of Link Housing Group, highlighting its benefits for both landlords and tenants. Lizzie shares her background and journey to her current role, addresses landlord concerns, and explains the property criteria and effective regions for PSL. She also outlines the steps for landlords interested in joining the scheme. Tune in to learn how PSL is making a positive impact on the housing market.

Episode 88 features Sophie Strand, Director of Business Development at Belvoir Edinburgh. Sophie shares insights from her career in high-profile property companies and her current role at Belvoir. She discusses the core values that guide Belvoir Edinburgh and the advantages of their franchise model. Sophie explains the benefits of using a letting agent, the essential steps to ensure a property is compliant and habitable, and how agents keep up with legal changes. This episode also covers Edinburgh's current rental market and the effects of political and economic factors on the property sector.

Episode 87 features Angela Stewart, Founder and Managing Director of Edinburgh's Remeo. She discusses the company's journey since its establishment in 2011 and her collaboration with Susan Godfrey. Angela talks about their backgrounds and how their skills benefit Remeo's services; covering corporate and private relocation, plus home management. Angela shares insights into addressing diverse client needs and overcoming relocation challenges, while also discussing evolving trends influenced by remote work. She describes Remeo's commitment to customer satisfaction, as well as their involvement with local charity Fresh Start who help thousands of tenants a year make a new home for themselves.

Episode 86 of Lets Talk features Andrew Williamson from Aberdein Considine. With more than 15 years of industry expertise and an array of qualifications, Andrew provides valuable insights into his professional journey, his recent return to Aberdein Considine, and key developments within the sector. We explore property refurbishment approaches, rental market dynamics, and the student rental market landscape. Andrew also shares amusing anecdotes from his time in letting and discusses his passion for running and charity work.

In episode 85 of Let's Talk, Harry Crombie, Lettings and New Business Manager at 'Burgh Property, provides valuable insights into the Scottish property market. From discussing 'Burgh's background and recent merger with Clyde Property to predicting rental market trends in 2024. Harry offers his perspectives on navigating changes and consolidations in the industry. He also shares advice for landlords and aspiring professionals, while reflecting on personal milestones that have shaped his perspective on life and priorities.

Episode 84 of Lets Talk, features Michelle Christie, Managing Consultant of JIL (Jobs in Letting) - a specialist recruitment agency for the Scottish property industry. With over 30 years of first-hand experience, Michelle provides invaluable insights into property recruitment. She discusses JIL's evolution, from its origins in PRS lettings to its expansion into diverse property sectors. Michelle offers advice for individuals interested in pursuing a career in property, and provides practical guidance for candidates transitioning into the industry. From interview preparation to cultural fit assessment, Michelle shares essential tips for success in property recruitment.

Lets Talk celebrates its five year anniversary by inviting back our first guest, Charlie Inness, Head of Business Development at Glenham Property. Hear about Charlie's rich experience in residential property investment, from his early career to owning his own properties. Explore his pivotal role in establishing investment sourcing services during the rise of Buy to Let, and gain insights into the unique expertise he brings to Glenham's clients. Discover the latest refurbishment projects undertaken by Glenham, Charlie's first-hand experience with the BRRR (buy, renovate, refinance, rent) model for property investment, and his expert analysis of the current residential lettings market in Edinburgh. Plus, get exclusive predictions on mortgage rates, insights into the impact of rent control measures, and valuable advice for landlords navigating the evolving rental landscape.

Episode 82 features John Cox, Managing Director of Cox & Co, and Business Development Manager, Neill Bukes covering a range of key matters for landlords today, including investment strategies, navigating issues affecting buy to let mortgages, current rental market conditions in Scotland, and the recently announced tapered approach to rent controls from April 2024.

Episode 81 features Kirstie Donnelly, an Associate Solicitor with TC Young, discussing the issues of anti-social behaviour (ASB) of tenants and Wrongful Termination Orders (WTO), and the First-tier process.

Edinburgh based portfolio landlord, Iftikhar Ali, joins Lets Talk for episode 80 to share his views on the current rental market as well as the Scottish Government's rent caps and proposals for A New Deal for Tenants. Having previously worked as a qualified mortgage advisor, Iftikhar discusses the challenges and how to overcome them, in securing mortgages to enable continued viability for buy to lets during a time of higher interest rates.

Episode 79 features Brian Geddes, Managing Director of R J Building Surveying Ltd discussing why there is an ever increasing requirement to regularly inspect and maintain properties. Brian talks through the dangers of building neglect and highlights reports that can increase the value of a property.

Founder of Edinburgh based Watt Property, Angela Watt, joins Lets Talk for episode 78 to share her views on the current Edinburgh rental market and legislative matters, such as the regulations for lead in drinking water, due to take effect from March 2024.

Episode 77 features Director of Edinburgh based Chapmans, Laura Chapman, giving advice to landlords who have experienced a significant increase in costs and feel it necessary to raise rents higher than the stipulated cap.

CEO of the Association of Scotland's Self-Caterers (ASSC), Fiona Campbell, joins Lets Talk for episode 76 to discuss the serious concerns of the measures introduced by the Scottish Government to regulate the short-term lettings industry.

Branch Manager of Glasgow Property Letting, Michelle O'Donnell, joins Lets Talk for episode 75 to discuss the different types of pest infestations that can commonly occur in Scottish rental properties, how to identify them, their cause and how they can be eliminated.

Episode 74 features CEO of SHARE, Daryl McIntosh explaining about the organisation and the wide range of courses, qualifications and support that it provides to Scottish Housing Associations. Daryl also gives his views on the Scottish Government's emergency legislation and housing policies.

Episode 73 features Ross Leiper and Lyndsay Yuille from RentLocally discussing marketing strategies in today's rental market. They also talk about the contributing factors on both the supply and demand side and offer valuable advice to landlords, whether they are considering leaving the market or planning to invest further.

Episode 72 features founder of Colin McShane Interior Styling. Colin talks about the different services that his company provides and describes the main elements and benefits of home staging and interior styling in properties. Colin also talks about his company's other services such as full or part refurbishments.

Episode 71 features Operations Director of Pinstripe Inventories, Matthew Mackay, talking about the history of the organisation, the introduction of tenancy deposit schemes and the importance of having a detailed inventory in place at the start of the tenancy to avoid deposit disputes or even an adjudication. Matthew also chats about how much software has changed since they were first established in 2009 and explains about the software he helped develop to ensure swift but thorough recordings of properties.

Steven Cafferty from Deaf Action joins Lets Talk for episode 70 to discuss the barriers and challenges that hard of hearing and deaf people face when looking for a property to rent and then living in the property itself. Steven explains about Deaf Action's new service, Safe and Sound, which is designed to help Scottish landlords and tenants. Steven also chats about his successful golf career and the worldwide championships he has won.

Episode 69 hears Founder and Director of Scarlett Land and Development, Will Scarlett, discuss the Build to Rent (BTR) movement in Scotland and the challenges it faces relative to the rest of the UK. Will shares his views on the opportunities for institutional investors in Scotland.

Episode 68 features Conservative MSP, Miles Briggs, discussing his views of the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection)(Scotland) Act 2022 and his concerns over the counterproductive and damaging effects it could have on tenants in the long run. Briggs talks about the ramifications the Act has on investment for Scottish rented housing and also future supply.

Episode 67 features Scottish Land and Estates', Policy Advisor for Rural Property, Anna Gardiner. Anna discusses the challenges of rural private rented tenancies and the concerns of recent emergency tenant protection legislation on rural housing, including landlord affordability, energy efficiency, empty homes and potential long term effects on tenants themselves.

Episode 66 of Lets Talk features Chief Executive of the Scottish Association of Landlords, John Blackwood, and Head of Policy and Campaigns of Propertymark, Timothy Douglas, discussing the Cost of Living (Tenant Protection) (Scotland) Act 2022 which introduced a rent freeze in social and private rented housing and a moratorium on evictions. They also explain the recent changes to the Act that will come into force from April, as well as the petition that they have lodged to the Court of Session in Edinburgh in response to this legislation.

Episode 65 features Ross Macleod, Managing Director of West of Scotland based Macleod Letting. Ross chats about the history of his organisation and the recent revamp to their office. Ross also discusses the current rental market in Glasgow and gives valuable advice to landlords affected by the recent changes in legislation.

Episode 64 hears Matthew Bringloe, Service Manager for Aberdeen Cyrenians' ‘Settled Homes for All' initiative, talk about the empty homes crisis in Aberdeen and how they aim to get these homes back into use, to help support those in need as well as landlords.

Episode 63 features Business Development Director, Louis Daillencourt discussing Novoville's Shared Repairs App, which the City of Edinburgh Council introduced to help owners of housing blocks deal with shared repairs. Described as a ‘game changer', the app integrates all aspects of the repairs process benefiting owners and property professionals too.

Managing Director of Grant Fairbairn Property Leasing joins Lets Talk for episode 62 to share his views on the recent Scottish Government announcement on the rent freeze for existing tenancies and the moratorium on evictions. Grant also discusses the housing crisis including the Glasgow student market, and speaks about his recent office relocation to Edinburgh.

Portfolio landlord, Fred Lawson joins Lets Talk for episode 61 to discuss how he built a property portfolio in his 70's. Owning long and short-term let properties in Edinburgh and East Lothian, Fred offers helpful advice to existing landlords and those considering investing in property in current times.

Managing Director of Cullen Property, Steve Coyle joins Lets Talk for episode 60 to discuss the pro's and con's of letting out a property short term or long term. Steve also considers the new legislation for the licensing of all short term lets and shares his view on whether it will have any long term effects on the private residential lettings market.

Episode 59 features Steve Cox, Account Executive at Alan Boswell Group. Steve discusses important factors regarding landlord insurance and common mistakes landlords make when arranging their cover. Steve also talks about insurance for tenants.

Episode 58 features director and owner of Gas Care Domestic Ltd, Sean Harper, sharing advice and information on full compliancy for buy to let properties in Scotland.

Episode 57 hears Nicki Wise, a professional who lives with her husband and their youngest child in Edinburgh, share her experience of renting as a family in Scotland and her views of current rent levels, SNP and the Green's proposed ‘New Deal for Tenants‘ and the main focal points of the ‘Rented Sector Strategy'.

Portolio's Chris Wood and Ross MacDonald feature on Episode 56 of Citylets Lets Talk and provide an update on the market and offer advice on achieving a good price for a tenanted property. They describe the process from the tenant's perspective and discuss portfolio sales too.

Episode 55 features Rory Cowan, partner at BKF & Co. Rory provides updates on Coronavirus legislation and discusses the proposals of the Coronavirus (Recovery and Reform) (Scotland) Bill 2022 currently going through parliament. Rory also discusses the proposed PRS rent controls within the Scottish Government and Green's ‘New Deal for Tenants' as well as offers advice to landlords experiencing rent arrears.

Managing Director of Dundee based Finlayson Gore, Eilidh Finlayson joins Lets Talk for episode 54 to share her views on the current Dundee rental market and legislative matters such as EPC requirements and the discretionary grounds for possession.

Episode 53 hears Director of Mill Architects, Richard Webb give advice on different styles of property conversions, from attic space to basements as well as commercial to residential.

Crew members from the only Scottish team in the 2021 Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge (sponsored by Citylets), describe in detail their experiences of rowing for 5 weeks unsupported across the Atlantic Ocean.

Associate and Conservation Architect with Mill Architects, Jo Parry-Geddes answers questions that are often asked by landlords regarding housing standards and repairs in the Private Rented Sector (PRS). Citylets Lets Talk is brought to you in association with ARLA Propertymark Scotland

Managing Director, John Cox and Business Development Manager, Neill Bukes of Cox and Co, join Lets Talk for episode 50 to discuss their new business projection - expanding their team as well as how they ensure they have the right ‘fit' in their office dynamics for delivering success.