Letting & Estate Agent Podcast

Ever wondered what it really takes to sell a letting or estate agency? In this episode, we chat with former Tamworth agent Anton Plackowski, who shares what he learned from selling his own business. From systemising and knowing your numbers to delegating effectively, Anton reveals how to future proof your agency, boost efficiency, and increase value, all by running your business as if you're ready to sell.

Artificial intelligence is reshaping property, but is it a threat to estate agents and portals? Richard Hayes, COO of Zoopla, explains how AI is enhancing rather than replacing portals, offering smarter searches, personalised alerts, and richer insights. He highlights the importance of structured data and a strong portal experience, showing how agents can use AI to gain an edge in the competitive UK market. Is AI a game changer or just hype?

Behind every successful letting agent is a network of unsung heroes, suppliers, contractors, and service providers, who keep the industry running. Siân Hemming Metcalfe explores how recognising these contributors and building stronger relationships can boost your agency's efficiency, flexibility, and reputation. Learn who truly drives the UK lettings sector, why supplier recognition matters, and practical ways to foster genuine partnerships that transform your business. Listen and rethink how you work with your suppliers.

Could mediation be the key to navigating the new Renters' Rights Bill? We speak with Julie Ford, letting agent consultant and trained mediator, about how a mediation first approach could transform landlord-tenant relations. With over 500 mediations under her belt, Julie explains how mediation saves time, reduces court cases, and delivers fair outcomes for all. Discover how agents can embrace mediation to stay ahead in a shifting property landscape.

£25K for a Branch Manager - is that really enough? In this episode, Andrew Seldon, MD at Belvoir and former senior figure at LMAN, tackles one of property's toughest issues: poor pay and low morale. We explore stagnant salaries, long hours, and why commission models fail. Andrew offers straight-talking advice on asking for a rise and knowing your worth, while business owners hear why staff are leaving for self-employed roles and why training and mentorship matter.

Richard Donnell, Research Director at Zoopla, explains the key bottlenecks slowing the property market, from repeated data collection and anti-money laundering checks to mortgage and conveyancing delays. He explores how better consumer education, streamlined data, and closer collaboration between banks, solicitors, and agents could speed up sales. Learn why focusing on essential information and “transaction ready” listings could transform the process and keep clients happy.

Mark Burgess: The Man Behind the AI Revolution in Estate Agency In this final episode of our five-part series, we explore the journey of Mark Burgess, the bold thinker reshaping the UK property market with technology. From founding Iceberg Digital to creating the LifeCycle CRM, Mark shares how AI can drive real growth when agents commit fully. He discusses the mindset that separates leaders from the rest and reveals how collaboration, even with competitors, can boost results. Tune in to think differently and lead your market.

Join Miranda Menzies, a self-employed estate agent in Northamptonshire, as she explains why she only works with zero week contracts. By refusing long term ties, Miranda builds trust, stands out from the “typical estate agent” stereotype, and relies on word of mouth rather than social media. Discover how honesty, flexibility, and people skills keep her business thriving and why sometimes, less really is more.

Running an estate agency can be thrilling, but exhausting. In this episode, Lucy Noonan, founder of Atomic Consultancy, shares her journey from corporate estate agent to business owner, revealing the highs, pressures, and personal sacrifices behind success. She talks openly about avoiding burnout, the loneliness of business ownership, and why true achievement balances health, family, and ambition. Tune in for her honest insights and practical lessons every UK estate agent needs.

Why are so many letting agents failing to train their teams properly? Property consultant Julie Ford joins us to uncover the truth behind one of the industry's biggest problems. From financial fears to bad habits and low standards, Julie reveals how poor training damages reputation, compliance, and service, and what can be done to fix it. Tune in for insights that could transform your agency.

UK Property Market Weekly Update - Week 40, 2025 Welcome to the 40th UK Property Market Stats Show of 2025, your weekly YouTube ‘TV programme' on the UK housing market. This week, I'm joined by Iain White, ex Romans boss and Estate Agency Coach & Thought leader, as we unpack the key headlines from Week 40 (ending Sunday 12th October 2025). ▶️ Watch on YouTube: 
https://youtu.be/pdI9zsr-fq4

Should estate agents earn commissions or “kickbacks” from solicitors and financial service providers? In this episode, Chris Watkin chats with former agent Anton Plackowski from Tamworth, who shares his candid views on where to draw the line between fair reward and greed. They explore ethics, transparency, and how big corporates may be damaging the industry's reputation. Tune in and decide, fair practice or foul play?

Why Property Managers Are the Unsung Heroes of the UK Property Market. Think estate agents run the show? Think again. In this episode, Andrew Seldon, Managing Director of Belvoir, explains why property managers are the real backbone of any lettings business. From handling maintenance and rent to juggling landlords and tenants, they're under constant pressure yet too often underpaid and overlooked. Andrew reveals why these roles are vital for recurring income, what fair pay should look like, and how better recognition drives success.

Estate Agency in 2035: Will You Still Be in Business? In part four of our series with Mark Burgess, author of Prepare: AI's Impact on Estate Agency, we leap to 2035 to explore the future of UK estate agency. Mark discusses how top agents will thrive using proprietary data, while AI takes over admin, freeing agents to focus on people. He also reveals why data-driven marketing and avoiding the “race to the bottom” will secure listings and sales.

Can social media really replace property portals? With budgets tighter than ever, many agents are asking that question. In this episode, we chat with Richard Hayes, COO of Zoopla, about how platforms like Facebook stack up against portals, what truly drives quality leads, and why brand visibility matters just as much as enquiries. Tune in to discover whether social media is a threat or a powerful tool for UK estate agents.

In this episode, Siân Hemming Metcalfe, Operations Director at Inventory Base, reveals why joining the ICG (Innovation Collaboration Group) is transforming how suppliers connect with estate and letting agents. From powerful collaboration and shared expertise to innovative “speed dating” events that build real relationships, discover how the ICG is helping suppliers better serve the UK property market. Tune in and find out why it's such a game changer!

Can the UK really hit the target of 300,000 new homes a year? In this episode, Richard Donnell, Research Director at Zoopla, joins us to explore what's holding builders back, why demand is the real challenge, and how estate agents can play a key role. We also discuss Help to Buy, shifting new build prices, and changing buyer behaviour. Listen now and share your thoughts, are we any closer to hitting the target?

Prop Tech vs People: What's Really Powering Your Agency's Success? Is your agency led by cutting-edge tech or the people behind it? In this episode, Andrew Seldon, new Managing Director of Belvoir, explores the role of prop tech in the UK property market and why people remain your greatest asset. From AML checks to sales progression, tech has transformed the game - but it's no substitute for strong teams, genuine conversations, and using the right tools wisely.

Meet Miranda Menzies, the Northamptonshire estate agent proving that grit can outshine experience. From growing up on a council estate and serving six years in the RAF to running a fitness business and becoming one of the UK's top self-employed agents, Miranda's journey is pure determination. In this interview, she shares how she turned adversity into drive, the mindset behind her success, and honest advice for anyone ready to take the leap.

How can estate agents thrive in the AI-driven property market? In this third episode of our five-part series, Mark Burgess explains how to move beyond basic tools like ChatGPT and truly harness AI for a competitive edge. We explore off-the-shelf versus bespoke systems, the importance of structured data, and how AI can identify your next listings before anyone else. Mark also shares the mindset shift required to embed AI into daily workflows. Essential listening for agents ready to embrace game-changing technology.

Thinking of selling your estate or lettings agency? In this episode, we're joined by Lucy Noonan, founder of Atomic Consultancy, who shares her top three tips for maximising your sale value. From working on your business (not just in it) to getting your numbers and tax planning right, Lucy's insights are essential listening for any UK agency owner thinking about their next move. Tune in and start planning your perfect exit strategy.

Struggling to attract new landlords in today's property market? Letting agent consultant Julie Ford shares what's working now, from TikTok and AI to building trust through personality driven marketing. Forget the old “Landlords Wanted” leaflets; it's time to meet landlords where they are and stand out online. Tune in to learn how to future proof your marketing and attract the landlords you actually want. Are you Team TikTok or Team Leaflet?

Why are self-employed estate agents selling 20% more homes? In this episode, I'm joined by Adam Day, head of eXp UK, to explore why independent agents are outperforming traditional and hybrid models. From personal branding and local trust to having full control over marketing, self-employed agents are converting more listings into sales, and faster. Adam also shares how having real skin in the game drives effort, communication, and service. Tune in and discover what's behind the numbers.

UK Property Market Weekly Update - Week 38, 2025 Welcome to the 38th UK Property Market Stats Show of 2025, your weekly YouTube ‘TV programme' on the UK housing market. This week, I'm joined by Ben Madden, a leading Estate Agent in West London, as we unpack the key headlines from Week 38 (ending Sunday 28th September 2025). ▶️ Watch on YouTube: 
https://youtu.be/2K5jp2gBZ_Y

The model is booming across the UK, but is it built on shaky ground? I'm joined by Anton Plackowski, a former estate and lettings agent from Tamworth, who explains why relying only on sales can be risky. Drawing on lessons from the 2008 crash, he shows how lettings provide crucial recurring income, and why future proofing your business means looking beyond sales alone.

Is your estate agency losing its spark? In this insightful episode, Andrew Seldon, new MD of Belvoir and long-time industry expert, reveals why so many branches feel lifeless and lacking personality. He shares real stories of missed offers, poor service, and uninspired leadership, while explaining how agencies can reignite their energy, improve customer care, and boost profits. If you're serious about standing out in today's property market, this is a conversation you can't afford to miss.

Is AI really transforming estate agency, or is it just smoke and mirrors? In Part 2 of our five-part series, industry expert Mark Burgess cuts through the hype, explaining what AI, and more specifically, large language models, can and can't do for UK estate and letting agents. From debunking jargon to exploring practical realities, Mark breaks down automation, data, and tools like Lifesycle, showing why the right systems matter. Tune in before buying into AI promises and join the conversation.

Are you confident your agency is fully AML compliant? In this episode, we speak with Sue Hopson, compliance expert and property industry veteran, about the three biggest anti-money laundering mistakes estate agents keep making. With nearly 30 years' experience across private and social housing, Sue explains why failing to register with HMRC is still the top error, how poor recordkeeping and weak due diligence cause issues, and why proper training is essential to protect your business.

How Grief Became Grit: Adam Day's Journey to Property Success! What turns tragedy into triumph? In this inspiring episode, Adam Day, Head of eXp UK & Europe and founder of Hatched, shares how losing his father as a baby shaped his resilience, work ethic, and vision. From Mars bar hustles to launching Hatched, Adam reveals the mentors, mindset, and motivation behind his rise in estate agency. More than property, this is a raw human story of grief, grit, and building a legacy.

Why are so many Rightmove leads ignored? Estate agency coach Jason Bull reveals the shocking truth behind missed buyer enquiries, and what it means for the industry. From mystery shopping to real stats, he uncovers why agents lose business daily and how leadership, training, and broken systems are failing them. Hear what top performers do differently and why “tech and touch” could change everything. Don't miss this episode, join the conversation and take action.

UK Property Market Weekly Update - Week 37, 2025 Welcome to the 37th UK Property Market Stats Show of 2025, your weekly YouTube ‘TV programme' on the UK housing market. This week, I'm joined by Toby Phillips, boss man of Martin & Co, CJ Hole & some other franchise brands of TPFG as we unpack the key headlines from Week 37 (ending Sunday 21st September 2025). ▶️ Watch on YouTube: 
https://youtu.be/nIMgRKVgnYM

What can modern estate and letting agents learn from Countrywide's rise? Chris Watkin chats with John Hards, former Group Lettings Director and now Chairman of OpenBrix, about the lasting impact of branding, leadership and people in agency success. From the power of local names to why strong branch managers matter, John shares insights into the culture that made Countrywide thrive. Estate agency is, at its core, a people business. Tune in for lessons that still resonate today.

Are letting agents undervaluing themselves? Cheap fees are on the rise, but at what cost to the industry? In this episode, Cornwall property expert Sophie Lang explains how fee cutting and online platforms like OpenRent are impacting agents, landlords, and the market. She reveals why full service agents are often undervalued, how better communication can retain clients, and practical steps to prove worth while protecting profitability.

How AI is Really Changing the Game for UK Estate Agents, with Mark Burgess! AI isn't the future, it's already here. In this episode, we chat with Mark Burgess, CEO of Iceberg Digital and author of Prepare: AI's Impact on Business, about how artificial intelligence is transforming estate agencies. We discuss why many CRMs are outdated, the shift from manual to digital processes, and what smart agents must do to stay ahead. If you're curious about AI beyond the hype, this conversation is a must-listen.

Why is UK estate agency in 2025 totally bonkers? Estate agency coach Jason Bull doesn't hold back, calling out outdated systems, poor leadership, and shocking listing to exchange ratios. He argues that if we started from scratch, we'd never build it this way. Jason explores how self employed models are outperforming big names and why reconnecting with the emotional side of moving is key. Watch the full video and let us know, has the industry lost the plot, or can it still be fixed?

Is estate agency training broken? Adam Day, head of eXp UK, tells it straight. In this candid conversation, Adam explains why much of the UK's estate agency training simply isn't working, and what needs to change for agents to succeed. From outdated attitudes that treat training as punishment to cultural barriers stopping agents from applying what they learn, Adam breaks it down. Discover why peer learning, mastermind sessions, and true development may be the industry's real game changers.

Thinking of selling your estate or letting agency? Don't list it until you've done these three things. Join Sue Hopson, the South Coast's Compliance Queen, as she shares nearly 30 years of property expertise. Sue reveals why solid, signed landlord terms are essential, how watertight client accounting protects your sale, and which paperwork pitfalls can derail a deal. Whether you're selling soon or just planning ahead, this is must-hear advice for every UK property professional.

UK Property Market Weekly Update - Week 36, 2025 Welcome to the 36th UK Property Market Stats Show of 2025, your weekly YouTube ‘TV programme' on the UK housing market. This week, I'm joined by Rob Smith, boss man of Hunters, Whitegates & Northwood as we unpack the key headlines from Week 36 (ending Sunday 14th September 2025). ▶️ Watch on YouTube: 
https://youtu.be/NIZb3BcVDgk

Why Agents Together Might Be the Best Thing to Happen to Estate Agency! Estate agency coach Jason Bull shares why Agents Together is transforming the industry. With decades of experience, he explains how mentorship brings clarity, confidence and accountability, for mentors and mentees alike. It's free, with no catch, just a chance to connect with like minded professionals, raise standards and grow together. If you've wondered whether mentorship is for you, this could be the nudge you need. Watch, reflect, and maybe even get involved.

Why are so many estate agents still getting customer service wrong? Andrew Seldon, Managing Director of Belvoir, joins us for a candid chat about one of the property industry's biggest blind spots: poor client care. We discuss how leadership, culture, and mindset shape performance, why agents often fall short, and what managers and negotiators alike can do to raise standards. From missed opportunities to emotional intelligence, this conversation is about building agencies that truly thrive.

Struggling to stand out in the UK property market? Estate and letting agents, this one's for you. In this episode, Mark Burgess, CEO of Iceberg Digital, shares how their CRM tracks over five million active buyers, landlords, and investors, revealing the content that truly grabs attention. Discover why Chris Watkin's content consistently outperforms, the types of content UK audiences engage with, and how you can apply these strategies yourself. Tune in to learn what works, what doesn't, and how to connect with your audience effectively.

Is the UK Estate Agency Industry Really Being Represented? Rupert Collingwood Speaks Out Are the organisations meant to support estate and letting agents in the UK truly representing your interests? In this interview, Rupert Collingwood, an experienced London estate agency broker, shares his unfiltered views on why groups like Propertymark and the Home Buying and Selling Group often fall short. He explains how these bodies frequently miss the mark by failing to consult agents properly and by offering commentary long after key legislation like rent reform and stamp duty changes have already taken effect. Rupert also highlights the consequences of being sidelined in important discussions, with government decisions steadily eroding transaction volumes and agent incomes. He questions the value of membership organisations today and challenges whether they genuinely stand up for the industry or simply serve their own interests. If you're an estate or letting agent feeling unheard or concerned about the future of the property market, this episode is for you. Join the conversation and share your thoughts in the comments below!

Why is the UK behind on self employed estate agency, and what needs to change? Jason Bull compares the UK market to Europe and the US, revealing what's holding Brits back. From fear of financial instability to concerns about “looking stupid,” he explores the mindset shift needed for self employment to thrive. Drawing on experience with one of Europe's top models, he shares how collaboration and relationship led service are reshaping the industry. Curious about going solo? This episode is for you.

Could you really earn over a quarter of a million pounds a year as a self-employed estate agent in the UK? Adam Day, UK boss of eXp, says yes, but only if you're prepared to go all in. In this episode, Adam shares the habits, mindset, and strategies that separate top performers from the rest, from content marketing to networking. Expect real names, real numbers, and the crucial factor that makes the difference. Are you ready to level up?

UK PROPERTY MARKET WEEKLY UPDATE - Week 35, 2025 Welcome to the 35th UK Property Market Stats Show of 2025 - your go-to weekly YouTube ‘TV Programme' on the UK property market. This week, I'm joined by Kristian Stott, as we unpack the key headlines from the 35th week of 2025, ending Sunday, 7th September 2025 ▶️ Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/w6ZBALu68EQ

Five compliance mistakes could cost you your agency. In lettings, one slip can mean thousands lost, or even your business. That's why we're joined by Sue Hopson, the compliance queen of lettings. With nearly 30 years in property, Sue shares her five must-know tips: safeguarding client funds, avoiding deposit errors, tightening key documents, sticking to processes, and training your team. Listen in to protect your agency, and don't forget to share your own compliance insights with us.

Should referral fees in estate agency be banned? Property expert Jason Bull tackles this hot topic, arguing they damage trust, ethics, and the market itself. He exposes how some agents prioritise profit over clients, with negotiators charging “what they can get away with.” Many firms even rely on these fees to stay afloat. Are they sustainable, or a ticking time bomb? Tune in to hear why reform might be overdue, and share your take: should referral fees stay or go?

With the Renters' Rights Bill dominating the headlines, many in the UK property industry are wondering if the government is missing the point. In this interview, Nicol Nightingale, former letting agent, regional rep and now asset manager, explains why bringing in yet more legislation could do more harm than good. Nicol argues that without first regulating property agents through ROPA, the Renters' Rights Bill risks piling pressure on an already stretched system without actually protecting tenants. She highlights the worrying reality of unqualified agents and self managing landlords drafting legally binding tenancy agreements with no formal training. Rather than political posturing, what the sector really needs is investment in proper qualifications, stronger enforcement of existing laws, and a serious move towards professionalising the industry. Listen to the full interview to hear why Nicol believes change is needed!

When Suppliers Bully Estate Agents: What's Really Happening in UK Property Tech? In this interview, Rupert Collingwood, a no nonsense estate agency broker, pulls no punches about how some prop tech suppliers are squeezing estate agents and letting agents across the UK. Are your tech providers truly supporting your business, or just treating you like another number on their ledger? Rupert explains how many tech solutions are created for problems estate agents don't actually have, yet come with ever increasing fees and complicated contracts. He highlights the frustration agents face when suppliers keep raising costs regardless of the value delivered, and when product changes create extra headaches and expenses. The conversation also dives into why estate agents aren't standing up for themselves enough, allowing this “bullying” behaviour to continue unchecked. If you've ever felt pressured or left behind by your tech suppliers, this episode is worth the listen. Tune in, share your thoughts, and let's start holding suppliers to account.

Grow Your Estate Agency with Authentic Content – Insights from Adam Day. Want to raise your agency's profile and attract more clients? Adam Day, UK supremo of eXp, reveals how over 700 estate agents have used authentic storytelling, personal video, and targeted direct mail to win business without expensive campaigns. Hear why local content like “Street of the Week” builds trust, how stepping outside your comfort zone fuels growth, and why creativity is the ultimate game changer in today's property market.

Why are so many estate agents poor at marketing themselves? In this episode, Andrew Seldon, Managing Director of Belvoir, shares the truth behind why even experienced agents struggle to stand out. From one-person outfits to big corporates, glossy brochures and property listings simply aren't enough. Andrew reveals why most social media falls flat, how to turn local knowledge into compelling content, and what really builds trust with sellers and landlords. Tune in and discover how your agency can win more instructions.