As we start to tidy away the buckets and spades and the suntan cream is not being applied as often, I hope that all the new Holiday Let hosts have had an extremely profitable season and managed to keep their sanity.
We have seen a huge rise in individual hosts the last few years meaning that a lot of supply, shall we say, is available to guests. The positive is that as guests have got so much choice it really forces everybody to up their game and ensure that they are offering the very best accommodation and experience. We certainly noticed that this summer was very different to last summer and that we had to drive more marketing and put in additional effort to ensure a successful season.
So as the title suggests we soon venture into a new season and winter is indeed coming, we feel it’s absolutely vital for the new hosts to be aware of what is ahead. To be listed on all the favourite OTA’s (online travel agents) will simply not be enough so I wanted to offer some guidance to help you succeed.
Once guests have checked out maintain that relationship, offer discounted rates for booking again direct, this will also save you on commission fees from the OTA’s and collect emails building your email marking list.
Don’t just rely on tourism, think about how your marketing can attract corporate clients and companies to book your property. We have a lot of experience with Serviced Accommodation and this side of short stay lets, so please drop me an email if you would like some more information.
Featured property: Lulworth House, Poole. Some of our properties feature a hot tub and log burner to help with the approaching colder nights!
Five top tips for new holiday let hosts
Fit a smart thermostat to enable you to track when the heating is on or off remotely and also have instant access to the temperature info for when guests have issues (which they will!).
Create a tiered pricing for your property. This entices smaller groups to book but also ensures you create the additional revenue when the property is at its max occupancy.
External CCTV is reasonably priced these days and easy to fit. Not only does it avoid any unexpected large groups but also enables you to offer instant evidence should the group size not match the booking.
We all know how vital your housekeeping team are and if they are not doing so already ensure pictures are taken of any damage as this will rapidly speed up the deposit claim process.
Take advantage of the tech and software available in order to have your T&C’s signed electronically and also the guests identification uploaded and filed with ease.
Martin Shorey, Founder of Shore Abode.
CONTACT
T. 0800 048 5111
E. info@shoreabode.co.uk
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