Logo
    Search

    Podcast Summary

    • Landlords blamed for low property supply and rising house pricesLow supply of properties due to long-term holding by investors causes house price increase

      Landlords are being blamed for the rising house prices in Britain. According to a recent report by Rightmove, the housing market saw a 2.1% increase in prices in January. The reason for this, as per Rightmove, is the low supply of properties on the market. The cause of this low supply is the high demand from property investors, who tend to hold onto their properties for longer periods than residential occupiers. This results in fewer properties being available for sale, leading to an increase in prices. The property podcast, hosted by Rob Benz and Rob Dicks, discussed this topic in their latest episode, where they also shared their thoughts on the best places to invest in property in 2015. They encouraged listeners to check out their property tips book, which has been a huge success since its launch and is currently the number one property book in the UK.

    • The UK housing crisis: Causes and debatesThe housing crisis in the UK is a complex issue, driven by underinvestment in new housing stock and affordability concerns for first-time buyers.

      The housing crisis in the UK is a complex issue with various contributing factors. While there is blame being placed on landlords for the lack of properties available on the market, the root cause may be the chronic underinvestment in new housing stock over the last decade. The percentage of housing stock owned by landlords is small compared to owner occupiers. The housing crisis exists, and building more homes is a solution, but it's easier said than done. The current state of the UK housing market, particularly in London and the southeast, is a topic of debate. Some believe prices will continue to rise, while others think a crash is imminent. Regardless, the affordability of properties versus average salaries is a significant concern for first-time buyers.

    • House price to earnings ratios can be misleading indicators of affordabilityConsider disposable income, affordability, and infrastructure when deciding to invest in property, not just house price to earnings ratios.

      House price to earnings ratios can be misleading when it comes to determining whether it's a good time to invest in property. Economist David Smith argues that disposable income is a better indicator of affordability. For instance, in the 1980s, house price to earnings ratios were low, but it wasn't a good time to buy due to high interest rates and inflation. The hosts also discussed their past criticisms of certain cities, such as Burnley and Norwich, but emphasized that transport links are an important factor to consider when deciding where to invest. First-time buyers may feel apprehensive about making their first investment, but it's crucial to look beyond single data points, such as house price to earnings ratios, and consider other factors, like affordability and infrastructure.

    • London's high property prices make it less attractive for investmentConsider the North of the UK for investment with reasonable prices and promising growth potential, especially in Manchester and Leeds.

      While London has strong fundamentals, its high property prices make it less attractive for investment. The North of the UK, on the other hand, offers more reasonable prices and promising growth potential, with Manchester and Leeds being key areas to consider. These cities have strong fundamentals and have shown signs of growth, making their commuter satellite towns attractive investment opportunities as well. Transport infrastructure and employment opportunities are crucial factors when considering property investment. While London's fundamentals are well-known, the North offers a more balanced investment opportunity.

    • Investing in UK property beyond the southeastConsider Liverpool, Sheffield, Nottingham, and the Northeast for strong investment opportunities with good yields and potential for growth. Look for areas following the property cycle with favorable conditions for growth.

      Outside of the traditional hotspots in the southeast, there are other areas in the UK, such as Liverpool, Sheffield, Nottingham, and even the Northeast, that offer strong investment opportunities with good yields and potential for growth. These areas follow the property cycle and have the fundamentals in place, making them worth considering for investors. While some cities like Manchester and Leeds may already be well-established and more challenging to find value in, there are still opportunities to be found in the middle ground where affordability is good and all the necessary factors are present. Ultimately, it's about striking a balance between potential returns and the level of risk one is willing to take on. The key is to follow the fundamentals and look for areas where the conditions are favorable for growth.

    • Commuter belts outside London to see growthThe outer commuter belts of major cities, offering good transport links and strong fundamentals, are expected to see growth this year. While yields may not be as high as in city centers, there's potential value in these areas and in the inner commuter belt.

      The outer commuter belts of major cities, specifically those 30 to 60 minutes outside of London, are expected to see growth this year due to the natural ripple effect from the inner commuter belt's growth in previous years. These areas offer good transport links and strong fundamentals, making them attractive investment options. However, it's important to note that the yield may not be as high as in the center of towns. Additionally, there is still potential value in the inner commuter belt areas, especially if the deals are particularly strong. The discussion also mentioned the possibility of Sydenham and Sutton as potential investment areas due to their strong transport links and growing desirability.

    • Consider yield and fundamentals in property investmentFocusing solely on capital growth can be risky in property investment. Instead, prioritize both yield and strong fundamentals to mitigate risk and potentially identify areas for growth.

      When it comes to property investment, focusing solely on capital growth can be risky. Instead, it's essential to consider both yield and fundamentals. The speaker warns against getting swept up in the hype of potential capital growth and neglecting the importance of a healthy yield. Strong fundamentals and a respectable yield can indicate an area with potential for growth, although it's not a guarantee. The speaker also mentions the "Waitrose effect," suggesting that the presence of high-end businesses in an area can be an interesting data point, but should not be the sole basis for investment decisions. Ultimately, it's crucial to keep an eye on both yield and fundamentals when making property investment decisions.

    • Exploring Oomph's user-friendly logo creation website and positive Property Podcast reviewsDiscover Oomph for quick, affordable logo options. Input business name and keywords, browse, customize for £25. Impressive selection. Property Podcast praised for informative, entertaining content, requesting more daily episodes.

      Oomph is a user-friendly logo generation website that offers a decent selection of logos for businesses looking for a quick and affordable solution. By inputting the name and a few keywords related to your business, you can browse through various logo options and customize them to your liking for £25. Although the logos may not be as good as those designed by professionals, they are a good option for businesses starting out or testing the waters. The site offers a vast selection of logos, some of which are impressive. Additionally, the podcast "Property Podcast with Rob and Rob" received another five-star review from a listener named podcast sftw, who praised the informative and entertaining content and requested more daily episodes. Overall, Oomph is a valuable resource for logo creation, and the Property Podcast with Rob and Rob continues to receive positive feedback from listeners.

    • New episodes every Thursday, apologies for past delaysConsistent new podcast episodes every Thursday, delays resolved, upcoming focus on saving for a deposit, check show notes for resources, join mailing list

      The Property Geek Podcast is now consistently releasing new episodes every Thursday morning at 7 AM for listeners to download for their commute or convenience. Apologies were made for any previous delays due to technical issues with iTunes, which have been resolved. Additionally, an upcoming episode will focus on strategies for saving for a deposit for a new investment property, whether it's a first or subsequent one. Listeners are encouraged to check out the show notes at propertyhub.net/bestplaces2015 for links to relevant resources. The podcast team appreciates 5-star reviews and invites listeners to join their mailing list at thepropercypodcast.com.

    Recent Episodes from The Property Podcast

    ASK435: Should I set up one company or many? PLUS: Should I be trying other brokers?

    ASK435: Should I set up one company or many? PLUS: Should I be trying other brokers?

    Happy Tuesday! We’re back with two more listener questions! 

    • (0:43) Paul currently has three buy-to-let properties and intends to grow his portfolio to ten in the future. Each property is currently held in a separate SPV, and he's trying to decide if he should continue putting his new properties in their own SPVs or combine them all into one. Aware of the pros and cons of each method, Paul seeks advice from Rob & Rob on what to do. What will they suggest? 
    • (5:09) Lee’s been searching for the best deal for his mortgage renewal and wonders if he should stick with the advice of one mortgage broker or talk to a few to get a better range of options. 

    Enjoy the show? 

    • Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us! 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJuly 02, 2024

    TPP589: The 5 surprising areas where property is booming

    TPP589: The 5 surprising areas where property is booming

    Location is everything in property investing, and this week Rob & Rob reveal the UK’s top 5 areas for property growth. Forget the usual city hotspots - these under-the-radar locations are stealing the show. Tune in as the guys share their theories on what's driving these areas' success and learn how you can leverage this information to shape your own investment strategy. Can you guess which ones made the list? Hit play to find out! 

    • (0:49) News story of the week 
    • (3:40) The best performing areas for property growth… 
    • (7:25) Kicking off with city hotspots  
    • (8:25) The top 5 performing areas revealed 
    • (15:30) Other notable areas 
    • (17:15) What’s driving these locations success 
    • (19:43) Hub Extra 

    Links mentioned: 

    Enjoy the show? 

    • Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us! 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 27, 2024

    ASK434: Is now the right time to sell this property? PLUS: What do I do about this arrangement fee?

    ASK434: Is now the right time to sell this property? PLUS: What do I do about this arrangement fee?

    It’s time for your weekly dose of Ask Rob & Rob! 

    • (0:42) Gary’s recently inherited a flat in Notting Hill that he plans to sell and use the proceeds to invest in a cheaper property with better growth potential. But the current value is about 20% less than its original purchase price, leaving him unsure whether to hold off for better market conditions or sell now for the best possible price. 
    • (3:28) Ryan’s wondering if he should add his arrangement fees to his mortgage or pay them off in full, so he turns to Rob & Rob for their advice. 

    Enjoy the show? 

    • Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us! 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 25, 2024

    TPP588: June Market Update

    TPP588: June Market Update

    Get ready for one of our juiciest market updates yet, as we bring you the latest happenings in the property world, including a build-to-rent mini special packed with fascinating rental stats. But that’s not all - we dive into the hottest topic right now: the election! 

    What’s the latest updates? The manifestos are out, but what do they mean for property investors? Did The Robs see anything that worries or excites them? Join us as they break down all the news and share their beliefs on politics. Will they lose your vote? Let’s find out... 

    • (0:55) The latest data on house prices 
    • (2:20) Some interesting news on rents 
    • (5:40) What’s happening with build to rents 
    • (7:57) Let’s talk politics 
    • (14:40) Hub Extra 

    Links mentioned: 

    House prices: 

    Rents: 

    Build to rent: 

    Election: 

    Hub Extra:  

    Enjoy the show? 

    • Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us! 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 20, 2024

    ASK433: How do I value new build properties? PLUS: Are flats with cladding an opportunity?

    ASK433: How do I value new build properties? PLUS: Are flats with cladding an opportunity?

    Rob & Rob are back to offer their advice to two more listeners! 

    • (0:45) Mussa is curious to know if flats with cladding still face a negative perception, even with EWS1 certificates. He seeks Rob & Rob’s advice on whether these properties offer good capital growth potential or should be avoided as property investments. 
    • (3:48) Thomas is at a loss on how to properly value new build properties since there are no comparable ones in the area. He turns to the guys for their expertise and guidance. 

    Enjoy the show? 

    • Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us! 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 18, 2024

    TPP587: How to avoid a leasehold nightmare

    TPP587: How to avoid a leasehold nightmare

    The most frequent questions we receive are about leaseholds, and given they make up around 40% of the property market it’s crucial for every investor to understand them. Tune in as Rob & Rob deep dive into the topic, discussing the pros and cons of leasehold vs freehold, shedding light on ground rents and service charges, and bringing you up to speed with the latest changes from the Leasehold Reform Bill.  

    • (0:58) News story of the week 
    • (3:27) Let’s talk about leaseholds… 
    • (4:25) What actually is a leasehold? 
    • (6:06) The pros and cons of leasehold vs freehold 
    • (7:01) How about ground rent? 
    • (9:50) Details on the Leasehold Reform Bill 
    • (12:40) What about service charges? 
    • (21:37) Hub Extra 

    Links mentioned: 

    Enjoy the show? 

    • Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us! 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 13, 2024

    ASK432: Who should I vote for? PLUS: Do I really need to pay this fee?

    ASK432: Who should I vote for? PLUS: Do I really need to pay this fee?

    It's Tuesday, and that means it's time for Ask Rob & Rob! Join us as we tackle two new listener questions… 

    • (0:44) Tom wonders what property investors should be looking for in each party's manifesto for the upcoming July election. He's curious if any appear to favour landlords and investors and which might introduce stricter policies. He turns to Rob & Rob for their insights to help him decide who to vote for based on his investment strategy. 
    • (2:44) Jalon received a payment request from the Information Commissioner's Office and wants to know if the fee is something he’s required to pay as a small property investor. 

    Enjoy the show? 

    • Leave us a review on Apple Podcasts - it really helps others find us! 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 11, 2024

    TPP586: Should property investors be scared of Labour? (Election special)

    TPP586: Should property investors be scared of Labour? (Election special)

    It's the topic that sparks the most passionate debates: politics! With the unexpectedly early election just around the corner, what does this mean for the property market, and will a potential new government bring significant changes? Join us as Rob & Rob tread on dangerous territory, sharing their thoughts and opinions on the possible impact of a Labour government! 

    • (0:40) News story of the week 
    • (2:49) Let’s get into it… 
    • (3:20) What’s happened as a result of the election being called early? 
    • (6:40) What will happen in the run-up? 
    • (8:40) What will happen if Labour win? 
    • (16:30) What do we make of it all? 
    • (22:18) Hub Extra 

    Links mentioned: 

    Enjoy the show? 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 06, 2024

    ASK431: Would you rent to someone with a CCJ? PLUS: What type of company should I set up?

    ASK431: Would you rent to someone with a CCJ? PLUS: What type of company should I set up?

    Let's dive into your questions and get some answers on this week's Ask Rob & Rob! 

    • (0:38) A potential tenant with a CCJ has applied to rent Chris's property. The tenant has a guarantor, and the lettings agent offers a protected rent scheme. He wonders if this provides enough protection or be cautious and asks Rob & Rob for their advice. 
    • (3:10) Ashley’s at the start of her property journey and unsure whether to set up an SPV or a limited company. She wants to know the difference between the two and which option would be best for her situation. 

    Enjoy the show? 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enJune 04, 2024

    AOB: What do Rob & Rob actually DO?

    AOB: What do Rob & Rob actually DO?

    In this candid peek behind the curtain, Rob & Rob delve into what they actually do on a day-to-day to keep their £100m property business running. 

    From handling operations to marketing and growth initiatives, they get raw about their current roles and responsibilities - and how the wrong role had Rob D considering if it was his time to leave the business... 

    Links mentioned: 

    Enjoy the show? 

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    The Property Podcast
    enMay 31, 2024

    Related Episodes

    ASK329: Where next for property prices? PLUS: Have some areas hit their peak already?

    ASK329: Where next for property prices? PLUS: Have some areas hit their peak already?

    Rob & Rob are back for some more listener questions, and we’ve got an 18-year property cycle double whammy for you this week! 

    Kicking us off this week is long-term listener – Barry! 

    Barry’s been listening to the podcast since we started back in 2013, and he’s recently been thinking about property prices and the 18-year property cycle. 

    What he wants to know is what Rob & Rob expect to happen to property prices in the next 18 months, but with a specific focus on different property types rather than regions. 

    Will larger country property prices continue to grow in line with other property types and follow the 18-year cycle or will it deviate? 

    Staying on theme, our next listener has been wondering how Rob & Rob think the cycle is going to play out over the next 10, 20, 25 years. 

    Tune in to find out the advice Rob & Rob have got to give and make sure you join us on Thursday for the much-awaited episode dedicated to all things 18-year property cycle on The Property Podcast. 

    Do you have a buy-to-let or property investment related question for Rob & Rob? You could feature on the next episode by giving us a call on 013 808 00035 and leaving a message with your name and question (normal UK call rates apply).  

    Or if you prefer, click here to leave a recording via your computer instead

    The next question on Ask Rob & Rob could be yours.  

    Have you joined us over on the Property Hub Forum yet? Our online community is friendly, informative, and the members are waiting to welcome you with open arms. So, get yourself over and introduce yourself. 

    And if you’d like to find out more information about Portfolio you can do that here

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    TPP270: The 18 Year Property Cycle - Year by Year: Part 1

    TPP270: The 18 Year Property Cycle - Year by Year: Part 1

    In the last episode we broke down the phenomenal video by Ray Dalio: “How The Economic Machine Works” (and again, if you haven’t seen it, we highly recommend you check it out!).

     

    This week, we follow that up with one of the most requested episodes we’ve ever had - a year by year break down of the 18 year property cycle.  We’ll discuss how it aligns with what Ray Dalio talks about, we’ll take a look back on what’s happened in recent years and we’ll peer into the future to try to see where we are headed next.

    NEWS THIS WEEK

    In the news this week, the BBC reports on an inquiry that has a housing committee calling for properties to be confiscated from rogue landlords.  Are these measures too severe or is it the right deterrent the industry needs?

    JOIN THE CONVERSATION OVER IN THE FORUM

    Share your stories with us - Join the conversation in the forum.

    IF YOU ENJOYED THE PROPERTY PODCAST, PLEASE LEAVE A REVIEW ON ITUNES

    Reviews are really important in helping other people to find the show, so by way of thanks we read out every single review we receive on air.

    If you’d like to hear your name on the show, leave us a review on iTunes here.

    Not sure how to leave a review? This video shows you how to review and subscribe on iTunes.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    TPP208: How would we invest in property if we started again

    TPP208: How would we invest in property if we started again

    This week The Robs jump in their time machine and look at what they would do if they could start investing all over again.

    Listen to the podcast in full to find out how both of The Robs started out, and what they would have done differently with the benefit of hindsight. What opportunities did they miss, which disasters do they think they avoided, where would they focus their investment, and what do they think they definitely got right.

    News story: Irish government meet with Airbnb to address housing concerns

    The housing minister met Airbnb amid concerns that the business is driving up rents and removing housing stock from the rental market in Dublin. Pressure has grown on the government to limit the number of days that a property can be made available to let on Airbnb after findings that there were 2,984 listings in Dublin that involved entire properties being made available for more than 90 nights a year.

    Read more on this one right here.

     

      Resource of the week

    This week's Resource of the Week is  www.walkscore.com. This one combines Rob B' favourite things - walking and fundamentals! This one we grabbed from over on The Property Hub Forum (what do you mean you haven't checked it out yet?!). This resource gives you a walk score for the fundamentals in any given area - enjoy playing about with that one!  The Robs checked out their own postcodes and one fairs significantly better than the other!

     

    Continue the conversation over in the forum

    How did you begin and what would you do differently if you could rewind the clock? Let us know over in the forum.

    If you enjoyed The Property Podcast, please leave a review on iTunes

    Reviews are really important in helping other people to find the show, so by way of thanks we read out every single review we receive on air.

    If you’d like to hear your name on the show, leave us a review on iTunes here.

    Not sure how to leave a review? This video shows you how to review and subscribe on iTunes.

    See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

    65: Housing Affordability

    65: Housing Affordability

    The average house in 1963 would have cost you $19,300. Today, that number is $393,300, and even adjusting for inflation doesn’t help. No matter how you cut it, modern American housing is expensive. This episode explores why, and what you can do in the meantime.

    References:

    #155 - Laks Srini

    #155 - Laks Srini

    Laks Srini is the cofounder and CTO of ZeroDown. Before that he was the cofounder and CTO of Zenefits.

    You can find him on Twitter at @laks_srini.

    The YC podcast is hosted by Craig Cannon.

    Y Combinator invests a small amount of money ($150k) in a large number of startups (recently 200), twice a year.

    Learn more about YC and apply for funding here: https://www.ycombinator.com/apply/

    ***

    Topics

    00:00 - Intro

    00:30 - What is ZeroDown?

    1:50 - How did they test the idea?

    3:50 - What did they learn from companies that failed in the space?

    8:00 - Breaking down the product

    11:25 - ZeroDown's customers

    13:35 - Expanding to other markets

    15:50 - What if a downturn happens?

    17:10 - ZeroDown's hiring strategy

    20:10 - What are their hardest technical challenges?

    22:05 - ZeroDown's breadth and product strategy

    26:40 - Customer interviews

    28:35 - Should everyone own a house?

    29:50 - Home ownership in the future

    32:45 - Build something you really want to see in the world

    34:40 - Working with his cofounders was the most important consideration