Laura Mearns, managing director and owner of Aberdeen-based lettings and estate agency Northwood North East, has been appointed to the board of directors of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), the leading voice for Scotland’s private rented sector.
Laura brings more than 20 years’ experience in property management and lettings, with a strong track record of championing professional standards, regulatory compliance, and providing a landlord-focused service while understanding the needs of tenants.
Her appointment to SAL’s Board reflects Laura’s deep commitment to improving the private rental landscape across Scotland.
SAL is the largest and only dedicated national organisation representing landlords and letting agents in Scotland. With a strong landlord and agent membership, SAL provides expert guidance, legal updates, training, and resources to help landlords and agents navigate the complex regulatory environment.
The association also plays a key role in shaping housing policy by working closely with the Scottish Government and other stakeholders to ensure that the interests of landlords and tenants are fairly represented.
Set up in 2009 by Laura and her husband Steven, Northwood is an established presence in Aberdeen’s Rosemount Place, as well as both Banchory and Inverurie high streets. The past 16 years have seen Northwood acquire a rapidly expanding portfolio of lettings properties as well as growing a strong sales pipeline all contributing to this year’s annual turnover of more than £1M.
Laura said: “I’m honoured to join the Board of SAL at such a pivotal time for the sector. The private rented market in Scotland is evolving rapidly, and I’m passionate about helping landlords, tenants and agents adapt while continuing to provide safe, high-quality homes.
“I am very much looking forward to contributing to SAL’s mission and supporting its members across the country.”
SAL chief executive John Blackwood said: “On behalf of the Scottish Association of Landlords (SAL), I am delighted to welcome Laura Mearns to our board of directors. We look forward to Laura bringing her wealth of experience, both as a SAL letting agent member and as a well-established agent in the North-east of Scotland.
“It is essential that our board reflects the broad range of business interests within our membership, and I am excited to be working with Laura in helping shape the future direction of SAL.”
For more information about Northwood, visit www.northwooduk.com/aberdeen-estate-agents/ and for more information about SAL, visit www.scottishlandlords.com