004 Top 14 fruckups you want to avoid
In this episode, we break down the top 14 mistakes we made in property, development, and business — so you don’t repeat them. From structure and VAT to planning, contingency, leaseholds, finishes and more, this is your shortcut to avoiding years of pain.
What we cover:
Setting the right company & VAT structure from day one
Why mixing BTL and SA in one LTD is a disaster
R2SA instability and why we spent too long on it
Underestimating development timelines & poor builder management
Why 20% contingency is the real minimum
Planning application mistakes that delay approvals
How not splitting a leasehold kills refinancing
Getting walked over by freeholders & neighbours
The truth about paid mentoring
Cheap fixtures that cost more long term
Problems with leasehold commercial conversions
Career switching and “golden handcuffs” regrets
VAT surprises when dealing with contractors
And… marrying Maggie (Mac wishes he was gay 😂)
Our companies:
ZEN Stays — £1.1m annual turnover through Serviced Accommodation
ZEN Properties — £1m+ assets with £500k own equity
ZEN Properties Podcast — real conversations on building cashflow + wealth through UK real estate
Sponsorship:
This episode is brought to you by ZEN Properties.
We develop and convert property across the UK.
Investors earn 11-15% annual, asset-backed.
Find out more: zenproperties.uk
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