Lets Talk with Citylets is your podcast channel dedicated to all things around the world of lettings - 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.
Lets Talk is brought to you by Citylets in association with ARLA Propertymark Scotland.
You can also subscribe to the podcasts via iTunes, Spotify and Soundcloud.
Boutique Consultancy with Nicky McConnachie: Property Sourcing & Vacant Home Management
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.
Ahead of the Scottish Budget – Scotland’s Private Rented Sector with Propertymarks’, Timothy Douglas
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.
New to Renting? Essential Tips and Market Insights for First-Time Renters with Nicky Lloyd of ESPC
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.
Tenement Owners' Associations and Housing Law with Jacqueline Omoniyi of Under One Roof Scotland
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.
A Brief Overview of Lar Housing Trust and its Structure
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.
