The Return: Property & Investment Podcast Zoopla Exec: Where to Buy, Upgrade or Sell in 2026
I loved recording a no-fluff episode of The Return
With Richard Donnell at Zoopla
(Source of the best insights in the industry.)
The headline?
→ Stop investing like it’s 2021.
→ Start investing like it’s 2026.
We covered what 2025 changes mean for 2026 investors.
Then discussed 2026 ‘must-dos’, including:
Re-underwrite your portfolio.
Assume “normal” rent growth (2-3%).
Stress test higher compliance and running costs.
Face the London maths.
If you want income, be honest.
London can work - but mainly as value-add, or very long term.
Go where the spread works.
Follow yield, not headlines.
(We discussed regional cities like Glasgow, Derby.)
Decide your stance early.
Buy / Build / Upgrade / Sell.
Commit to scaling or shrinking.
Act like an operator.
Sell liability-heavy stock early.
Buy only where pricing reflects the cost of capital.
This episode is in association with (and thanks to) Lloyds.
In association with:
https://www.lloydsbank.com/business/industry-expertise/real-estate.html?utm_source=The+Return&utm_medium=podcast+partnership&utm_campaign=sponsored+episode
Guest LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-donnell/
Host LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annaclareharper/