Fast, Cheap, or Good: The Balancing Act in Estate Agency
In the competitive world of Scottish estate agency and property management, the age-old saying still rings true: "You can have it fast, cheap, or good — but not all three." This principle, often referred to as the Project Management Triangle, speaks directly to the trade-offs businesses must manage — and nowhere is this more important than in the property sector, where trust, value, and care are everything.
Scotland’s property market, particularly in cities like Edinburgh, Glasgow, and Inverness, is both dynamic and demanding. For estate agents and property managers, the challenge is not just to close deals or turn over tenancies quickly, but to build long-term relationships with landlords, homeowners, tenants, and guests — all while maintaining the highest standards of service.
Let’s take a look at the permutations of the triangle….
Fast and Cheap might suit the short-term investor, but it rarely satisfies property owners with high-value assets. Rushed tenant placements, cut-rate maintenance, and impersonal communication can lead to void periods, property damage, and ultimately, lost trust.
Fast and Good requires investment — in people, technology, and proactive service. It means having the right systems and staff in place to respond promptly to viewings, maintenance issues, and legal compliance. It’s effective, but not bargain-basement pricing.
Cheap and Good can be possible, but only if landlords are patient. Finding the right tenant, organising quality repairs at a fair price, or navigating complex licensing (especially for short-term lets) takes time and attention. Rushing these steps risks undermining the very quality you’re aiming for.
People First: Property Is Personal
At the heart of all this lies a simple truth: property is deeply personal. For landlords, their property is often their biggest investment, sometimes even their family home. It deserves personal, attentive management — not a one-size-fits-all approach.
For buyers and tenants, it’s more than a transaction; it’s their future home. Treating them with respect, honesty, and professionalism builds trust and secures longer-term tenancies and positive word-of-mouth.
For home sellers, the stakes are equally high. Whether moving up the ladder or releasing equity, sellers want the best price, minimal hassle, and expert guidance — but these outcomes don't come from rushed listings or budget marketing packages. A good agent invests time in staging advice, high-quality photography, and pricing strategy, ensuring that the property stands out in a competitive market. That takes commitment and real empathy with the owners needs, not shortcuts.
In short-term lets, where Scottish legislation is tightening and competition is fierce, guests should be welcomed as VIPs. Every touchpoint — from check-in to cleaning — should reflect quality and care. That level of hospitality doesn’t come from the cheapest provider or the fastest turnaround; it comes from prioritising excellence.
A Commitment to Quality
Balancing speed, cost, and quality is never easy, but at Logan Property, the focus remains clear: do it right, or not at all. In an industry where reputation is everything and assets are high-stakes, cutting corners isn’t worth the risk. We choose to invest heavily in technology and our people. The platforms we use represent the gold standard in their respective fields are our team are diverse, smart and the best at what they do.
Whether you’re a landlord, tenant, buyer, or guest, you deserve a service that treats your investment, your home, or your experience with the attention it warrants. That’s not always the fastest or cheapest route — but it’s the one that delivers lasting value.
