012 Screw New Year’s resolutions

This episode is a no-BS portfolio and business update — what’s working, what’s breaking, and what we’re changing going into 2026.

What we cover:

  • Real portfolio updates from Mawsley, Cotswolds and Swadlincote

  • What actually rents fast vs what looks good on paper

  • Lessons from being £70k over budget (and how it could’ve been avoided)

  • Why we’re restructuring our serviced accommodation businesses

  • ZEN Management: what it is and why we’re launching it

  • Why New Year’s resolutions are mostly a lie — and what to do instead

  • Reducing expensive debt without killing momentum

  • Getting clarity on A&L, P&L and forecasts (without accountant shock)

  • Systemising businesses so they run without you

  • Outsourcing when you think you can’t afford to

  • How we’re planning to retain more assets and finish more projects

Our companies:

  • ZEN Stays — £1.1m annual turnover through Serviced Accommodation & Property Management

  • 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 

If you enjoyed this episode:

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011 SAP, EPCs & Building Regulations Explained