Name: 100th Episode: Rent Controls, Market Distortion & Reliable Data with Citylets’ Thomas Ashdown by Lets Talk
Duration: 32 min 35 s
Description: 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.

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

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.

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

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