The Interview

A conversation with Geno Stafford

Q: Before we get into the market itself, can you tell readers a little about your role and what life inside the Find UK Property buying team actually looks like?

As Buying Team Leader at Find UK Property, I oversee the sourcing and acquisition of residential property opportunities for the business, which combines analytical and operational responsibilities.

Some days are spent reviewing opportunities, assessing financial viability, and discussing acquisitions internally with the team. Other days involve travelling to property viewings, meeting vendors, speaking with estate agents, and evaluating properties in person.

Q: How did you enter the property industry?

My background was originally in property auctions. I worked for a local auction house selling residential properties, and through that role I dealt with Find UK Property a lot.

After working closely with them over time, I was offered the opportunity to join the acquisitions team directly.

The auction house experience gave me valuable insight into how transactions operate behind the scenes, particularly in relation to negotiation, buyer behaviour, and deal structuring.

Q: What do people misunderstand most about property buying?

One of the biggest misconceptions is the true cost involved in refurbishing residential property.

Most people focus on major or obvious expenses such as kitchens, bathrooms, or structural repairs. In reality, the cost of smaller items, including flooring, fixtures, fittings, decoration, and finishing work, can significantly impact profitability – especially the labour costs that come with them.

Managing refurbishment budgets well is therefore just as important as securing the property itself.

Q: What should investors understand about estate agents and the wider transaction process?

Investors should understand that different parties involved in a transaction can receive revenue from multiple services connected to the deal.

In addition to agency fees – their referrals to brokers, solicitors, auctions, and financial services can also generate revenue for traditional agents.

That does not necessarily create a conflict, but investors should understand how different incentives within a transaction may influence recommendations and advice – and where some of their money might be going. My advice is to always shop around if any other services are being recommended to you.

Q: What trends are surprising investors in the current rental market?

One major misconception is the belief that every rental property will automatically generate strong tenant demand.

While certain cities and regions continue to perform well, there are now locations where rental demand has weakened significantly – and these are places where we do not buy.

For example, demand for short stay accommodation in cities such as Manchester and Liverpool has remained relatively resilient, supported by strong student populations, tourism activity, and consistent business travel demand, whereas some smaller towns around those cities have experienced slower demand for traditional rental stock.

This demonstrates why investors need to evaluate localised market conditions rather than relying solely on national headlines.

Q: What separates a property that performs well from one that struggles?

A major factor is alignment with current market demand.

At different points in the cycle, investors may prioritise low cost buy to let properties, high yielding HMOs, or city centre accommodation suitable for short stay rentals.

Understanding tenant demand, demographic trends, and local economic activity is essential when assessing the long-term viability of an investment.

Q: What is a recent example of a deal you rejected?

We assessed a property with significant cracking in the gable end wall.

Having previously experienced structural issues on another property, we decided the risk profile was too high and chose not to proceed.

Experience often helps identify when potential repair costs or structural concerns outweigh the possible returns.

Q: What warning signs do you look for during viewings?

There are several immediate indicators we monitor during inspections.

Large visible cracks, signs of concealed damp, unusual property presentation, or evidence of neglected maintenance can all indicate wider problems.

Q: Have you ever withdrawn from a deal at the final stage?

Yes.

We were close to purchasing a property adjacent to one we already owned, but during final inspections our surveyor identified a concealed roof issue – timber rot.

At that stage, we decided to withdraw from the transaction entirely.

Although withdrawing late in the process can be frustrating, avoiding unnecessary long-term liabilities is ultimately more important.

Q: Why is Find UK Property able to secure opportunities other investors cannot?

Relationships are extremely important within the property industry. In some cases, strong relationships with agents mean we hear about opportunities before they are officially listed on the wider market, which can make a major difference when competition for good deals is high.

Estate agents and vendors are often more willing to work with buyers they trust to communicate clearly and make decisions efficiently.

Over time, maintaining professional relationships with agents creates access to opportunities that may not always reach the wider market immediately.

Consistency and reliability remain significant competitive advantages.

Q: What gives your team an advantage in the current market?

My previous experience working as an estate agent was particularly valuable.

It helps identify negotiation tactics, recognise risk indicators earlier, and understand how transactions are likely to progress.

In competitive markets, that level of experience can make a significant difference when assessing opportunities.

Q: How important is timing when acquiring property?

Timing is critical, but it varies depending on the opportunity.

Some properties benefit from patience, particularly where price reductions may occur over time. Others require immediate action because competition between buyers is high.

Successful acquisitions often depend on balancing discipline with decisiveness.

Q: What has been your proudest transaction so far?

One of the proudest achievements was acquiring a portfolio of 17 properties in the North West.

Portfolio acquisitions involve extensive negotiation, valuation work, legal coordination, and long-term planning, so completing a transaction of that scale was a major milestone.

Q: Is there one property you wish you had retained personally?

Yes, in a lovely village in the North East in a great semi-rural location.

We acquired it at an exceptionally low price, and the surrounding views were outstanding. I can still picture the views from the bedroom window now!

It is one of those properties that remains memorable long after the transaction has completed.

Q: What motivates you most in your role?

One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing neglected or empty properties returned to productive use.

Knowing that a vacant property will eventually become someone’s home again creates a sense of purpose beyond the financial side of the transaction. It can really lift the area, especially if we end up buying more on the same street or neighbourhood.

Q: What do you enjoy outside work?

Outside work, I enjoy spending time socially with friends and switching off from the pace of the property industry.

Quickfire with Geno!

Best UK city for investment right now?

Hartlepool.

Yields or capital growth?

Yields.

Biggest red flag in a deal?

If something appears too good to be true, it usually is.

One word to describe the 2026 market?

Steady.

Buy now or wait?

If a genuinely strong opportunity becomes available, act decisively.