Editor’s Letter

Happy New Year and welcome to the first 2023 edition of the now monthly ON THE HOUSE Magazine.

When I was a pup journalist fresh off my MA course and working on IT magazines, the term ‘adding value’ was bandied around in pretty much every interview I can remember. It was proudly asserted by technology providers, sales people and managing directors alike.

Then as I moved to the business desk of a national newspaper interviewees were doubling down on the term as it had become almost a buzzword for success – to add value for your customers, shareholders or online followers.

Then when I became a property investor, I still could not escape the term, as it seems every single strategy worth its salt requires you, the investor, to find a way to ‘add value’.

In fact, even with this magazine Wes De Leur and I are attempting to add value to the Buy To Let Property Group – I mean there aren’t many Facebook groups with their own monthly magazine!

Now, there’s sometimes the perception that free equals low value. Well, I can confidently say, that when it comes to this magazine, even though it is literally ON THE HOUSE, that is absolutely not the case.

For instance, if your strategy involves any kind of renovation, this issue’s cover feature and interview with renowned refurbishment expert Martin Rapley (p23) is seriously packed with value that could save you hundreds if not thousands in missteps and mistakes and give you a blueprint for the next step on your renovation journey.

Writer Alex Daley delivers a solid dose of value for those looking to evolve their property investment efforts into a property business with his exploration of ways to scale up on p18, while columnists Ramsay & White reveal techniques (p40) to help you ensure your portfolio is bulletproof during the current uncertain times.

Plus, there’s lots more, like our brand-new Beginner’s Corner (p38) – a serialised focus in every issue from now on into one topic to help you get started in the property game with the right mindset, knowledge and guidance to succeed.

See - value, value, value!

And, as always, I value your feedback, so if there is anything you want to suggest, comment on or just to start a conversation, please do send me an email, julian@onthehousemag.co.uk