Over the past decade, seasonal lettings have become a brilliant way to make your property work for you. Thanks to platforms like Airbnb, Abritel, Booking.com, and TripAdvisor, it's easier than ever to turn your home into a lucrative rental. However, while this approach can be incredibly rewarding, it does require careful preparation and diligent management to ensure long-term profitability. Here are some top tips from the Antibes Transactions team to help you make the most of your holiday letting venture:
- Check local permissions with your council. Before diving in, it’s crucial to ensure you have all the necessary permissions. Depending on your property's location and whether it’s not your primary residence, you might need to apply for a change of use to convert it into a holiday let. Some councils have introduced compensation schemes to regulate the rental market, which can be a deterrent due to the associated constraints. Make sure you fully understand local regulations to avoid any unexpected issues.
- Review your condominium rules. If your property is part of a condominium, it's essential to check whether holiday lettings are allowed. Condominium rules can vary widely, and some might have restrictions or outright bans on this type of rental. Be sure to review your condominium rules to avoid potential conflicts with other co-owners.
- Pick a prime location. Location is key to attracting tenants. Opt for a spot that appeals to tourists while also being attractive to other types of renters during off-peak seasons. For instance, if you mainly rent out in the summer, consider also offering student accommodation or house shares during the academic year. Ideally, a property near tourist attractions and educational institutions will ensure steady demand throughout the year, maximising your income.
- Brush up on your English! If you're not fluent and plan to manage bookings yourself, a good grasp of English is almost essential. Many tourists will not speak French, so being able to communicate in English will help prevent misunderstandings and allow you to offer a superior service. This includes handling bookings, answering queries, and resolving issues quickly. Providing a smooth experience will lead to positive reviews and increased bookings.
- Organise the management of your property carefully. Effective management is crucial. While online platforms handle bookings and payments, you need to plan for the day-to-day operations. This includes managing arrivals and departures, cleaning, changing bed linen between guests, and storing necessary items. Ensure you have everything in place to deliver a pleasant experience for your guests, encouraging them to return and leave favourable reviews.
- Be considerate of your neighbours. Maintaining good relationships with your neighbours is vital to avoid conflicts. You might want to limit the number of guests and the duration of each booking to reduce disturbances. Open communication with your neighbours and managing the flow of tenants thoughtfully will help keep everything running smoothly.
- Deliver outstanding service. Providing exceptional service is key to attracting more bookings and garnering great reviews. Respond promptly to enquiries, ensure your property is spotless and well-maintained, and offer a detailed guide to local attractions. Small touches, like personalised recommendations or thoughtful extras, can make a big difference and enhance your guests’ experience.
- Welcome guests in person if possible. While this may require more effort, a warm, personal welcome is always appreciated by guests. It gives you the chance to make a good first impression, engage directly, and address any questions or concerns immediately. A personal touch can greatly enhance their stay and create memorable experiences.
- Prepare several sets of keys. If you’re hosting a group larger than three people, having several sets of keys is a practical comfort for your guests. This reduces the chances of them being locked out if they forget the keys inside the property and makes their stay more convenient.
- Maintain a list of recommended contacts. Tourists often need recommendations for local services. Having a list of reliable contacts, such as taxi drivers, luggage storage facilities, tour guides, and other useful services, will be highly appreciated and help your guests make the most of their stay.
- Be mindful of additional services. Ensure that any extra services you offer don’t cross into the realm of hotel services, which could subject you to stricter regulations. Stick to the seasonal letting framework to avoid legal complications and maintain the flexibility of your rental activity.
In summary, seasonal lettings can be a rewarding and profitable endeavour if you focus on providing excellent service and managing your property effectively. By following these tips, you’ll increase your chances of success, attract satisfied tenants, and maximise your income. Ready to make your property a sought-after spot for visitors? Dive in and enjoy the many benefits of holiday lettings!
Congratulations! Now you know some helpful tips from the Antibes Transactions team to help you on your holiday rental activity. As you have read this article, we invite you to visit our "resources" section and read other articles that you may find useful. Do you have a real estate project? Contact us, the Antibes Transactions team will be glad to discover your project.
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