The demand for a ‘home-from-home’ experience from people wanting to get away for a few nights in the UK or for a Christmas break is still growing. As a consequence, many more homeowners are seeing this as a great business opportunity to generate additional income by renting out their own homes whilst they themselves are away over the festive period. Understandably, many homeowners who haven’t done this before are not sure what guests might be looking for so might not market their property as effectively as they should to secure the highest rent.
A unique or special feature of a home could make all the difference between charging a normal and premium rent.
Research reveals the most popular factors that would most likely persuade people to choose one property over another for a holiday. Top of the list was a swimming pool, followed by a property that was unusual like a windmill or lighthouse, one that was in the style of a farmhouse cottage with exposed floors and beams or one that offers 5-star luxury. Mintel recognised that whilst a swimming pool in the UK is a rare commodity, a hot tub is likely to appeal to many of those wanting a pool.
The research also highlighted other factors that would encourage consumers to pick one property over another:
properties that are remote or off the beaten track
properties that have a games room for things like table tennis or pool
larger properties, for instance, featuring 4 or more bedrooms
ability to book local activities using an app or website
providing bikes/e-bikes for guests to use
Based on this valuable intelligence, UnderTheDoormat’s marketing director, Annabelle Ottaway has three tips for people who want to get the maximum rent possible from letting out their homes.
She says: “The first thing I would recommend is to conduct an audit of their property to truly uncover what features it has. Whilst fewer homeowners might have a swimming pool to offer, hot tubs are certainly now more commonplace. Anything that is unusual or can be styled to be quirky or provide downright luxury will ensure your property moves further up the pecking order. We often find that people look for homes that reflect the life they lead – so featuring anything in your home that showcases your personality will increase the chances of attracting a guest similar to yourself.”
“The second thing to do is to make it as easy as possible for people to discover all of the things that they can do in the surrounding area. Provide information about the property’s location and vicinity to the best restaurants, local walks or nearby tourist attractions.”
Annabelle concludes: “Finally think about what else you can offer to make the stay more appealing such as converting a room into a games room with a table tennis table, dartboard or Scalextric. Make sure everything is in good working order. The same goes for bikes. Make sure you have three or four of them that are clean, in good working order and come with lights and locks. This is especially important for larger properties where the demand from extended families or groups of friends is likely to skyrocket this year now that we’re not living under the COVID restrictions that were in place last year.
"By investing some time and a little money, you can make your property stand out from the others, have a much better chance of being able to charge more and importantly get good reviews and returning guests.”
