Professional landlord for over 18 years, Colin Pretty, features on episode 38 of LetsTalk. With a sizeable portfolio in Edinburgh, Colin gives his advice and thoughts on various aspects of buy to let including the effects of the pandemic.

Managing rental properties during the pandemic, with professional landlord, Colin Pretty

Clive Rooney, crew member of ‘Five in a Row’, the only Scottish boat in the challenge, and sponsored by Citylets, features on episode 40 of LetsTalk. Described as the ‘World’s Toughest Rowing Race’, Clive chats about all aspects of the crossing, from the physical and mental challenges - to the training and preparation - as well as the extreme conditions they will endure during the four to six weeks over the Atlantic Ocean.

Talisker Whisky Atlantic Challenge with Crew Member, Clive Rooney

Managing Director and owner of Northwood Aberdeen, Laura Mearns and Director, Matt Pullinger feature on episode 46 of LetsTalk. Following a unique period in the private rented sector for Scotland, Laura and Matt discuss Aberdeen’s rental market during quarter 3 and the past year. They talk about their new satellite office that opened this year in Inverurie and also what attracts tenants and investors alike to Aberdeen.

Aberdeen’s Rental Market with Laura Mearns and Matt Pullinger from Northwood

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’.

A Tenant’s Voice – Renting as a Family in Edinburgh

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.

The Challenges of Scotland’s Build to Rent Movement with Will Scarlett

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.

Barriers and Challenges Faced by Deaf Tenants in the Private Rented Sector, with Steven Cafferty

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.

Home Staging and Interior Styling with Colin McShane

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.

The Services of SHARE and Scottish Government’s Housing Policies with Daryl McIntosh

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.

How to Deal with Pest Infestations featuring Michelle O’Donnell from Glasgow Property Letting

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.

The Increasing Importance to Maintain Rented Property, with Brian Geddes of R J Building Surveying

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.

Advantages of Using a Letting Agent, the Current Market and Belvoir Edinburgh, with Sophie Strand

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.

Exploring the Private Sector Leasing Scheme with Lizzie McGhie of Link Housing Group

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.

Navigating the Build to Rent Sector: Insights from Louise Amos of Lismore Asset Management

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.

Lets Talk with Ann Leslie of Lar Housing Trust

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.

Tenement Owners' Associations and Housing Law with Jacqueline Omoniyi of Under One Roof Scotland

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.

New to Renting? Essential Tips and Market Insights for First-Time Renters with Nicky Lloyd of ESPC

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.

Ahead of the Scottish Budget – Scotland’s Private Rented Sector with Propertymarks’, Timothy Douglas

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.

Boutique Consultancy with Nicky McConnachie: Property Sourcing & Vacant Home Management

Episode 96 features Laura Chapman sharing her expert insights on the Housing (Scotland) Bill, including rent controls, joint tenancy changes, and pet policies. Laura also discusses current market trends, the challenges landlords and tenants face, and her exciting plans for Chapmans in 2025, including initiatives like hosting breakfast seminars. Listen to hear why Laura believes expert guidance is more critical than ever in the rental market.

Scotland’s Housing Bill and Market Trends: Expert Advice from Laura Chapman of Chapmans

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.

Glasgow’s Rental Market & Investment Insights with Wendy Gallagher, One Stop Properties

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.

From Property to Music & Motorsport: Chris Cockburn on Lettings, the Rental Market, and Racing

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.

Inside Platform_’s Approach to Mid-Market and Build to Rent with Kevin Watson

To mark the 100th Lets Talk episode, Gillian Semmler questions Citylets MD, Thomas Ashdown, about the validity of the Scottish Government using figures from the rent control era and explores what life could look like for landlords if distortion-led policymaking becomes the new normal. Thomas also discusses the Citylets leading market reports and takes a trip down memory lane.

100th Episode: Rent Controls, Market Distortion & Reliable Data with Citylets’ Thomas Ashdown

Charlie Inness, Head of Business Development at Glenham Property, returns to the podcast for episode 101, to share his expert insights on the Edinburgh rental market. From shifting tenant demand and EPC uncertainty to investment strategy and regulatory pressures, we cover what landlords and investors need to know now, and what’s on the horizon.

Navigating Edinburgh’s Rental Market in 2025: Trends, Risks and Opportunities

Mark Lawrie, founder of Erskine Property, joins Lets Talk to discuss the launch of his new agency. He talks about the motivations behind starting his own business, the early days of running Erskine Property, and his approach to Scotland’s property market and future 

Launching Erskine Property: Mark Lawrie on His New Venture

In episode 103, James Edwards, Co-Founder and Tax Director at Anderson and Edwards Ltd, shares his expertise on tax for landlords and property investors. We explore Making Tax Digital, common mistakes to avoid, preparation tips, and insights for overseas and incorporated landlords. He also talks about his love for rugby, their sponsorship of Watsonian’s and what it means for Anderson & Edwards. 

Landlord Tax Tips: Making Tax Digital and Key Challenges Explained

Lar Housing Trust is expanding its mission beyond delivering affordable homes. Operations Manager Nicole Maxwell joins Gillian Semmler to discuss Lar’s new property management and factoring service, designed to support landlords - from tenant-find to ongoing maintenance, all while reinvesting profits back into housing.

Lar Housing Trust launches a new landlord service to support property owners

Episode 105 features Lyndsay Yuill, host of Edinburgh’s Property Investors Network (PIN) meetings and Sales Director at Rent Locally. She discusses the power of networking, what makes PIN unique, the rise of Property Pals and Pub Grub, and how community shapes success in today’s professionalised property landscape.

Building Community through Property with Lyndsay Yuill

Richard Burgoyne, Director of Cornerstone Letting gives his insight into the changes of late to letting in Scotland, including the Private Residential Tenancy, Letting Agent Registration and the Code of Practice and their effects on the lettings market. Richard also talks about his journey in setting up Cornerstone.

Letting Agent Registration, Code of Practice and the PRT with Richard Burgoyne

Senior Associate and Solicitor Advocate at Aberdein Considine, Carly Stewart, joins #Letstalk for episode 20 to explain eviction applications and common mistakes made which can lead to rejection by the tribunal. Carly offers helpful advice to ensure fair procedure is observed mitigating delays. Other aspects of the First-tier Tribunal are discussed including a number of legislative difficulties identified in the first few years of its introduction and the amendments introduced to rectify.

First-tier Tribunal, Housing and Property Chamber Eviction and Payment Actions with Carly Stewart

Lets Talk with Citylets is your podcast channel dedicated to all things property letting- investment, legislation, rights & responsibilities, your stories and more. New episodes featuring industry experts, tenants, landlords and voices from over the world of lettings are available fortnightly.

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