Listen "How Clark Adam Built a High-Income Portfolio at 69"
Episode Synopsis
In this episode of the Scottish Property Podcast, Nick and Steven sit down with Clark Adam, a 69-year-old property investor with one of the most fascinating life stories ever featured on the show. From growing up as a self-confessed “Ned” in Glasgow’s Cardonald, to joining the army at 15, to spending 25 years overseas protecting UK diplomats in some of the world’s most dangerous countries — Clark’s journey is anything but ordinary.After realising his pensions wouldn’t cover retirement, Clark began investing in buy-to-lets in 2008. Fast forward to today, he owns a high-cashflow portfolio in Montrose, earns close to £10,000 per month, and is part of an elite property group where only investors netting over £100k annually are allowed in. His favourite strategies now include serviced accommodation, long-term corporate lets, purchase with delayed completion, and upcoming moves into M&A and hotels.This episode is packed with wisdom, wild stories, and truly unique insights into risk, discipline, and building wealth later in life.🎙️ Episode Highlights🌟 From Glasgow “Ned” to Army CaptainClark grew up in Cardonald as part of the local gang “The Cardi”.Joining the army at 15 became his escape route — providing discipline, structure, and strong role models.He went on to become the Army Junior Squash Champion, played for the army, and was later sponsored for Sandhurst.A 14-week pre-Sandhurst programme taught him etiquette, culture, and public speaking — all funded by the taxpayer.🏘️ Starting Property to Fix a Pension Gap (2008)Clark began buying affordable buy-to-lets in Montrose, identifying early growth potential due to the deep-sea port and new bypass to Aberdeen.Properties were purchased for around £60,000, but early returns (£250–£300/month) weren’t enough — triggering his shift into property education.📚 £40,000+ Invested in Property EducationClark completed high-level training including Simon Zutshi’s masterminds.He believes every penny (plus the travel and hotel costs) has been worth it.Education accelerated his income from accidental landlord……to joining a club where members must net £100k per year.🏠 Serviced Accommodation & 5–10 Year Corporate ContractsServiced accommodation became Clark’s strongest strategy:One 3-bed Montrose property bought for £68,000 now earns £3,500 per month from wind farm contractors.He prefers long-term contracts with contractors, social housing providers, and insurance companies to eliminate tenant turnover.All his properties sit within the same DD10 8 postcode, making management effortless through his own local team.⚡ Why Montrose Is a Hidden Investment GoldmineMontrose is now a major hub for the North Sea wind sector.The construction of 72 new wind farms (Inchcape) brings huge contractor demand.Many workers prefer Clark’s properties over hotels for comfort and space — a major competitive advantage.🔧 Other Strategies: Rent-to-SA, Lease Options & PDCClark has completed:• rent-to-SA• converting BTLs into SA• purchase with delayed completion (PDC) — Scotland’s version of a lease optionWith PDC deals, he controls and refurbishes properties before final purchase.💰 The £100k Club — and Next Goal: £200kClark currently nets around £9,444 per month, slightly below £100k due to rising interest rates.His next milestone?The £200k Club, achieved through scaling serviced accommodation and long-term corporate leases.🏨 Next Moves: Hotels, Blocks of Flats & M&AClark is now eyeing larger acquisitions, including:• hotels• blocks of flats• major M&A opportunities in Scotland and EnglandHe’s inspired by peers already doing multimillion-pound deals.
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