The HMO Podcast - Project Managing HMO Refurbs: James Ashford’s Insider Secrets

Project Managing HMO Refurbs: James Ashford’s Insider Secrets

02/12/25 • 52 min

In this episode, I’m joined by James Ashford of Carter Ashford, a former mentee of mine, to talk about all things project management. James has years of experience managing large residential projects, and now he’s applying those skills to the world of HMOs.

Managing HMO projects can be one of the toughest parts of building a HMO business. It’s not just about finding a great deal or managing tenants—it's about keeping your projects on budget, meeting deadlines, and making sure everything runs smoothly. James shares his insights on how to manage contractors, reduce costs, and stay on track throughout your projects.

Topics covered in this episode:

03:10 - James Ashford's Background in Project Management
08:50 - Challenges in Managing HMO Projects
10:44 - The Importance of Preparation in Project Management
20:08 - Leveraging Contractors and Resources
23:21 - Essential Documentation for HMO Projects
36:54 - Understanding Contracts and Their Importance
43:49 - Maintaining Project Timelines and Accountability

If you're working on HMO projects or thinking about getting started, this episode is full of useful tips to help you manage your developments more effectively.

Please leave us a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help us celebrate this milestone!

Got any questions? Ask us in The HMO Community Facebook Group or follow me on Instagram @andygraham.hmo for daily HMO tips and advice!

If you want to join my 1-2-1 mentoring program, you can enquire here.

New to HMOs? Join The HMO Roadmap on a premium plan at 20% off today and unlock our award-winning library of 400+ resources to help you start, scale and systemise your HMO business. Hurry! Offer extended until Feb 14th only!

Topics covered in this episode:

03:10 - James Ashford's Background in Project Management
08:50 - Challenges in Managing HMO Projects
10:44 - The Importance of Preparation in Project Management
20:08 - Leveraging Contractors and Resources
23:21 - Essential Documentation for HMO Projects
36:54 - Understanding Contracts and Their Importance
43:49 - Maintaining Project Timelines and Accountability

If you're working on HMO projects or thinking about getting started, this episode is full of useful tips to help you manage your developments more effectively.

Please leave us a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help us celebrate this milestone!

Got any questions? Ask us in The HMO Community Facebook Group or follow me on Instagram @andygraham.hmo for daily HMO tips and advice!

If you want to join my 1-2-1 mentoring program, you can enquire here.

Previous Episode

Is Investing In HMOs Right For You? 10 Key Factors To Consider [#REWIND]

In today’s episode, we’re revisiting a special one—an episode I wasn’t sure I wanted to record but felt was essential. It’s important to make it clear that investing in HMOs isn’t just a highlight reel, and transparency is key when discussing what’s truly involved. HMOs aren’t for everyone, and there’s a lot to consider: Do you understand the value of cash-flowing assets? Does property investment excite you? Are your priorities focused on cash flow or equity?

If you’re already investing in HMOs, this episode will be a great reminder, and if you’re new to the world of HMO investing, it will help you decide if it’s the right path for you. I’ll break down 10 key factors you need to understand before committing your time and finances to HMOs. While I hope the answer is yes, it’s important to ensure HMO investing aligns with your goals and risk tolerance.

00:00 - Introduction to HMO Investing
03:05 - Understanding the HMO Landscape
06:11 - Key Considerations for HMO Investment
12:03 - Evaluating Your Interest and Risk Appetite
17:45 - The Importance of Long-Term Commitment

Please leave us a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help us celebrate this milestone!

Got any questions? Ask us in The HMO Community Facebook Group or follow me on Instagram @andygraham.hmo for daily HMO tips and advice!

If you want to join my 1-2-1 mentoring program, you can enquire here.

New to HMOs? Join The HMO Roadmap on a premium plan at 20% off today and unlock our award-winning library of 400+ resources to help you start, scale and systemise your HMO business. Hurry! Extended until February 14th only!

Next Episode

Sourcing HMOs, Commercial Valuations & Taking Advantage of Article 4 With Kieren Goldie

In this episode, I’m joined by Kieren Goldie, a property investor focusing on the South of England, particularly in prime Article 4 areas. Kieren’s built an impressive business offering a full turnkey service—covering everything from property acquisition to project and property management.

We’ll discuss how Kieren got to where he is, the ups and downs of building a business like his, and how he’s overcome challenges such as Article 4 regulations, planning restrictions, refurbishments, and sticking to budgets. If you're looking to build your own HMO property business, this is definitely an episode you won’t want to miss.

Topics covered in this episode:

03:19 Kieren's Journey into Property Investment
11:54 Navigating Article 4 Planning Restrictions
18:15 Sourcing Properties in Article 4 Areas
21:27 The Importance of Pipelining in Real Estate Deals
25:48 Understanding Commercial Valuations
30:11 Managing Build Costs and Project Management

Please leave us a quick review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify to help us celebrate this milestone!

Got any questions? Ask us in The HMO Community Facebook Group or follow me on Instagram @andygraham.hmo for daily HMO tips and advice!

If you want to join my 1-2-1 mentoring program, you can enquire here.

New to HMOs? Join The HMO Roadmap on a premium plan and unlock our award-winning library of 400+ resources to help you start, scale and systemise your HMO business. Get started now!

The HMO Podcast - Project Managing HMO Refurbs: James Ashford’s Insider Secrets

Transcript

[00:00:00] Andy Graham: Hey, I'm Andy and you're listening to the HMO podcast. Over 10 years ago, I set myself the challenge of building my own property portfolio. And what began as a short term investment plan soon became a long term commitment to change the way young people live together. I've now built several successful businesses.

[00:00:20] I've raised millions of pounds of investment and I've managed thousands of tenants. Join me and some very special guests to discover the tips,