How has Ed’s life changed since studying with Touchstone Education?

“Touchstone really has been the kick up the …. erm… posterior that I sorely needed. So far I have met some absolutely wonderful people and it really has opened my eyes to the fact that wherever you are, there is absolutely more in the tank and you have to have to confidence to be your best self to achieve it. Every day the wisdom of Touchstone knowledge has helped me, and definitely delivered.”

Why does Ed think that others should invest in property?

“Property has made me a millionaire.”

“I’m extremely lucky that growing my property portfolio has given me the opportunity to do so many things that others are not able to do. I have built a portfolio and a fantastically loyal team that can now be managed remotely. As a lover of travel, setting my businesses up this way allows me the freedom to travel away from the UK 6 – 8 weeks a year. 

More importantly, it allowed me the honour and the privilege to be a full-time live-in carer for my elderly mother and father and enrich their final years. I neither had to call a boss for permission to be at my mother’s bedside when she took her last breath nor arrange leave to bring my father home from the hospital and be with him holding his hand during his final moments. Property has allowed me to take care of the most important things in life that we will all face… being with the people that mean the most to us when they leave us.

“Your life clock is ticking. Put in the hard work, challenge yourself, push yourself, scare yourself, get to the edge of chaos, and carve your own fantastic wonderful journey for a peaceful future. It will be fun, it will be scary, but listen, learn, apply, and do it.”

What advice has Ed got for those who want a successful serviced accommodation business?

“The core driver in my business is the customer retention rate which is the real measure of success of any property hospitality business. No guests = no business. It as simple as that. As such, I have implemented and instilled in all my businesses and team a pure focus on “The Guest Journey”. By carefully choreographing and scripting a set of steps that covers the “guest journey” I have created an effective sales funnel with a sales and guest retention results-driven end goal.

“But the guest journey isn’t only about ensuring the smooth day-to-day, you also need to find ways to stand out. I may have built my business with mitigating risk, laser focus to deliver but I am never scared to be different and rip up the rule book and you shouldn’t be either - having fun is just as important!

“Because I love cats, they are the mascots on my marketing materials. All of our guests also get a rubber duck to take with them on their travels. Some may say that’s random. My guests would say it’s memorable, and if you remember a fun touch, you are more likely to return.

“Focus on what you are good at, with passion, and enjoy it. Rinse wash and repeat and keep going…”

What's next for Ed?

“I am at the stage in my career where I want to give back and I have a sincere wish to help other people on their journeys. I’d love to support somebody just getting started to realise their property investment potential.

“I am looking for investment opportunities with clear hold or exit strategies either alone or with joint venture partners to increase my portfolio value to circa £7 500 000 within five years.  If you see me on-line (or at an event) – say hello! And if you provide biscuits or chicken nuggets, I am all ears! 

“What’s next for me right now? Well, I’m dying for a coffee and I’d better feed the cats.”