In this weeks episode Ildiko interviews Mike Pogson, a property manager and letting agent based in Exeter, who shares his journey into the world of lettings after launching his business at the age of 60. Mike discusses his transition from a hands-on self-build project to establishing a rent-to-rent HMO landlord business, and eventually opening a high street office.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• Entrepreneurial Opportunities After 50: The podcast emphasizes that it's never too late to start a business, showcasing individuals who have successfully launched ventures after the age of 50.
• Challenges in the Lettings Industry: The lettings market is complex, with over 160 laws and regulations that landlords and letting agents must navigate. Keeping up with these regulations is crucial to avoid significant fines.
• Importance of Local Presence: Establishing a physical office in a high-traffic area can significantly enhance business visibility and attract new clients organically, as demonstrated by the transition from a home-based operation to a shopfront.
• Evolving Rental Regulations: The upcoming Renters' Rights Bill aims to change the landscape of the rental market, including the potential ban on Assured Shorthold Tenancies (ASTs) and the introduction of longer notice periods for landlords, which could impact the dynamics of landlord-tenant relationships.

BEST MOMENTS
Mike Pogson: "There's over 160 laws at the moment. It's a lot and you have to keep up with them. If you don't, the fines are enormous."

Ildiko: "So you’re saying that landlords who just do the lettings and running, managing their property themselves... they should know all 160 odd rules and regulations?"

Mike Pogson: "If a landlord's got an agent already, they don't really want to swap. Why would they? If that agent's good."

Mike Pogson: "You can just set it up. You can just say, I'm a letting agent."

Mike Pogson: "The renters' rights bill is coming in now. Lots to agree with. Some of it's really bad."

HOST BIO

Ildikó Sealey is the creator and host of New Business in Later Life, the podcast that shares inspiring stories of people starting businesses over 50 — and thriving.

A Routine Mentor, Networking Host, and entrepreneur herself, she brings both passion and practical wisdom to the mic.

Known as the “Routine Queen” of self-care, Ildikó prioritises her physical, mental, spiritual, and intellectual wellbeing as the foundation for her growing businesses and she teaches others to do the same: be the #1 powerhouse behind their business.

Seeing a gap in the local networking scene in Plymouth, Ildikó started co-hosting Property & Business Network in March 2024, connecting ambitious business owners across Devon and Cornwall. She and her husband have also been involved in the property space since 2019, revitalising tired homes into modern, comfortable places to live.

With a rich background spanning administration, social housing, art and design, education, business and mindset, Ildikó is passionate about empowering her fellow Encorepreneurs — those choosing to build something new in the second half of life.

Through her podcast, events and mentoring, she proves that it’s never too late to start again—and succeed.

https://linktr.ee/ildikosealey