Meet Billy Krooner, A 25-Year Property Investor
If you’re wondering if there are property strategies that still work in 2026, this case study gives you a real answer.
Billy Krooner has been investing in UK property for over 25 years. He started with traditional buy-to-let, but like many experienced investors, he realised that the market had changed.
Instead of sticking with outdated methods, Billy adapted. Today, he runs a diversified property business using strategies like:
- BRR (Buy, Refurbish, Refinance)
- Rent-to-rent serviced accommodation
- Lease options
- Portfolio repositioning
This is exactly the kind of evolution required to succeed in today’s market.
👉 WATCH the video here: https://youtu.be/-HD92a-GoNA
Why Property Strategies Must Evolve In 2026
The Decline Of Buy-To-Let
For years, buy-to-let was the foundation of UK property investing. But with:
- Section 24 tax changes
- Increased regulation
- Higher interest rates
…it’s no longer the reliable strategy it once was.
Billy recognised this shift early and made a key decision: adapt strategies or risk stagnation.
The Property Strategies That Still Work Today
1. BRR – Buy, Refurbish, Refinance
BRR remains one of the most effective ways to recycle cash and build a portfolio.
Case Study Deal – Exeter Apartment
- Purchase price: £127,500
- Refurbishment cost: £25,000
- GDV: £210,000 – £220,000
- Value-add: Created an extra bedroom and extended the lease
This allowed Billy to pull his money back out and secure a strong asset with long-term upside.
2. Rent-To-Rent Serviced Accommodation
This is where Billy generates significant monthly cash flow.
Instead of owning properties, he:
- Controls them through agreements
- Runs them as short-term accommodation
- Builds a scalable business
Portfolio Snapshot
- Around 25 rent-to-rent units
- Focus on contractor accommodation
- Fully managed with systems and team
This strategy provides consistent income, which is then reinvested into buying assets.
3. Lease Options – Low Money Down Investing
Lease options allow Billy to secure properties without buying them immediately.
Example Deal
- Property value: ~£350,000
- Agreement: 7-year lease option
- Strategy: Operate as serviced accommodation
- Outcome: Build deposit using rental income
This is a powerful way to control high-value property with minimal upfront capital.
👉 EXPLORE more success stories: https://www.samuelleeds.com/success-stories/
Combining Strategies – The Real Key To Success
Why One Strategy Is Not Enough
One of the biggest mistakes new investors make is focusing on a single strategy.
Billy’s success comes from:
- Using multiple strategies simultaneously
- Switching based on market conditions
- Maximising each opportunity
For example:
- If HMO doesn’t work due to Article 4 → switch to serviced accommodation
- If buy-to-let becomes unprofitable → pivot to cash-flow models
This flexibility is what creates long-term success.
The Power of Education and Network
Billy attributes much of his growth to being part of a strong network through the Samuel Leeds Academy.
Through the Academy, he has:
- Built connections across the UK
- Sourced deals through referrals
- Scaled faster using proven strategies
👉 LEARN more about the Academy: https://www.samuelleeds.com/academy/
Samuel Leeds’ Verdict
Billy Krooner represents exactly what successful property investors do differently.
He didn’t rely on one strategy or hope the market stayed the same. Instead, he:
- Adapted to changing regulations
- Focused on cash flow before assets
- Built multiple income streams
- Leveraged education and relationships
His approach is not about chasing trends – it’s about understanding the fundamentals of property and applying the right strategy at the right time.
In today’s market, that’s what separates those who succeed from those who struggle.
Want To Learn These Strategies Yourself?
If you’re asking:
- What property strategy should I use in 2026?
- Is property still a good investment in the UK?
- Is the Samuel Leeds Academy worth it?
The answer comes down to education and execution.
👉 Start here: https://www.samuelleeds.com/freetrainingblog
