During the holiday season, finding ways to earn extra money is essential for many individuals due to the financial demands of Christmas. Roy Foulkes, a retired police officer residing in West Hallam, Derbyshire, has successfully generated over £5,500 in cash and vouchers by identifying and reporting vacant properties.
In 2024, Roy discovered YouSpotProperty and has since utilized the platform to supplement his income. YouSpotProperty compensates individuals for pinpointing and flagging abandoned residences. Initially, a correct identification earns a £20 Amazon or M&S voucher, and if the property is purchased, renovated, and resold, the spotter receives 1% of the purchase price, up to a maximum of £10,000.
Roy has accumulated £4,750 from the 1% rewards after two properties he reported were rescued by YouSpotProperty, along with 39 £20 vouchers totaling £780. The first property earned him £2,350, while the second property recently garnered him £1,620, which he has utilized for household items, vacations, and experiences with his grandchildren.
One of the properties eligible for the 1% fee was spotted by Roy during a stroll in his former beat area. Despite previously reporting the property to the local council without any action taken, Roy’s involvement with YouSpotProperty proved fruitful.
The second property came to his attention near a former ex-local authority house in Derby. Roy’s vigilance and quick action led to a reward of £1,620 for identifying this property.
Apart from the financial rewards, Roy has utilized his vouchers for household purchases and finds satisfaction in contributing positively to society by reporting vacant properties. The initiative by YouSpotProperty is crucial, as England and Wales have a significant number of unused properties, with the company issuing numerous vouchers monthly to those reporting eligible properties.
YouSpotProperty has facilitated the purchase and refurbishment of various properties, ranging in value from £17,000 to £3 million, while rewarding individuals like Roy for their contributions. Co-founder Benjamin Radstone emphasized the importance of addressing the issue of empty homes and the positive impact of bringing these properties back into use.
