Top tips for holiday let buyers looking to maximise their returns

SPONSORED CONTENT: From rental essentials to the most popular property types, don't invest before checking through these recommendations

Location: When it comes to bookings, Devon, Cornwall, The Lake District, The Peak District, Yorkshire and Norfolk may top the polls each year, but it’s not essential to buy a property in a traditional holiday hot-spot. Think outside the box too. Consider beauty spots by the coast, historic towns, areas of natural beauty, by the waterways or less than an hour from a popular landmark, destination or attraction.

Type of property: Cottages are always a popular choice for holidaymakers but quirkier properties also attract good interest, including converted schools, chapels, stables or barns, and other dwellings such as pods and tree houses.

Flexibility: If you’re happy to accept short breaks and offer flexible start days, this will help attract more customers and set you apart from owners who only accept longer stays. In fact, you could see up to 30% more bookings than owners with properties that don’t accept short breaks.

Essentials: Wi-Fi is expected as standard these days, as are high standards of cleanliness.  We recommend that our accommodation providers supply cleaning and sanitisation to very high standards.

Luxury sells: The more luxurious you can make your property, the better. Top-notch properties are more likely to sell out and will encourage year-round bookings. Think quality furnishings, coffee makers, hot tubs and wood burners – special touches people may not have at home. This can earn you 10% more bookings and 70% more revenue compared to non-luxury properties.

Hot tubs: It’s an investment worth making because properties with hot tubs on average achieve 40% more bookings and 85% more revenue than properties without.  

Make it pet friendly: We’re a nation of animal lovers, so if you’re interested in maximising bookings consider attracting those who want to go away with their dogs. Pet-friendly properties generate 18% more revenue on average than non-pet-friendly ones.

Word travels fast: Good reviews are really important. cottages.com uses Reevoo, an in-built independent reviewing platform, which guides customers with their booking selection. As you’d expect, properties with good reviews get more repeat bookings. Things such as a nice welcome pack with local produce, and other thoughtful or little touches make a difference here.

Land a bargain: Don’t rule out purchasing land without property. You might encounter a stunning plot located in a beautiful location, and this could be your golden ticket. There’s increasing demand for holidays in shepherd’s huts and pods as people look forward to getting back to nature and exploring the great outdoors.

Tax benefits: Before you buy your property make sure you seek expert advice from a financial adviser to understand the tax breaks you might be eligible for. For example, many owners can claim capital gains tax relief if their property is classed as a furnished holiday let.

Pick a reputable partner: Teaming up with a reputable booking agency will minimise the pressure on you to find bookings and save you time. Cottages.com can help you manage your bookings and marketing, and advise on the best pricing strategy, while also dealing with customer queries.

To download your FREE guide to holiday letting visit let.cottages.com

Image: Konmac / Shutterstock