Throughout my career in the holiday let industry, and now as a New Business Development Manager, I meet many owners who are preparing their homes for letting. My role to date has been as a brand representative, advocate for the services we offer, and a consultant sharing my experience on what it takes to run a successful holiday let.
What is Success in Letting?
Success in holiday letting means achieving a steady stream of bookings throughout the year. It includes receiving positive guest feedback and building a base of repeat guests. Ideally, this success is reflected in a year-on-year growth in revenue, providing the market allows for it.
The Big Question:
What Should Owners Consider When Setting Up Their Holiday Home to Achieve Booking Success?
In my experience, this question is answered through a combination of factors. All of these contribute to delivering a high-quality, consistent, and well-maintained holiday let. These factors help the property stand out among the competition.
1. The Quality and Consistency of Furniture
When furnishing a holiday home, most owners will have a budget in mind. There is a noticeable difference between thoughtful purchases and simply filling a space with items that ‘will do’. The quality and consistency of furnishings set the tone for the entire home. These qualities are clearly reflected in photography. This is key to catching the eye of potential guests.
Aim for a finish that’s equal to or better than what guests have at home. Where possible, invest in pieces that will last several years, particularly if your plan is to let the property long-term.
Also, make sure that furniture is proportional to the space. A common mistake is trying to fit large, freestanding wardrobes into small cottages, particularly in Cornwall. This can compromise guest comfort and movement within the home. Guests often arrive by car with families and bags in tow. They typically bring a mix of beach gear and a few nicer outfits for dining out.
Top tips for furniture and storage:
- Favour drawer space via chests of drawers or bedside tables.
- Consider space-saving storage, such as, open hanging furniture.
- Instead you could install coat hooks with 3–5 hangers per room. This amount is more than adequate for most guests’ needs on a short break or week-long stay.
2. The Style of the Holiday Home
Holidays are aspirational, an escape, a chance to live differently, and often, to celebrate. Your guests are not just booking a place to sleep; they’re looking for an experience. Design and style matter.
In a saturated market, don’t let your holiday home fade into the background. Guests are scrolling through dozens, if not hundreds of listings. Often, they’re shared in WhatsApp groups with friends or family, where choices are made collaboratively. You want your property to stand out instantly.
Be bold. Have fun. Stay informed. You can opt for coastal hues with yellow accent chairs in the window. Choose a Scandi-inspired retreat with striking prints. Or select a charming cottage with exposed granite walls. Create a space that excites and resonates.
3. Guest Satisfaction
Booking a holiday is a treat. Something we all look forward to, often planned in advance to spend time with loved ones or a last minute escape to rest and connect. Your property is more than just a place to sleep; it’s where memories are made.
Comfort is key. A touch of luxury, even something simple, can elevate the experience. This doesn’t have to be expensive. It could be:
- A coffee machine
- A thoughtful welcome hamper
- Stylish interior design
- Up to date technology within the home
You’re not just renting out a home. You’re offering a memorable stay. It is an experience your guests will want to repeat and recommend.
4. Understanding the Immediate Competition
Knowing your location and understanding the local holiday let market is vital. Be curious. Look at what’s available in your area. Which properties get the most bookings?
Focus on comparable properties nearby to understand the benchmark. Use this insight to guide your decisions and aim to meet or exceed what’s already on offer.
5. Knowing Your Guests
Ask yourself:
- Who is going to book your home?
- Why are they choosing this destination?
Understanding your target guests before transforming your property will help you make informed decisions on everything from layout to amenities. You might cater for:
- Romantic couples
- Young families with babies
- Multi-generational families including grandparents
Think of it like preparing a buffet for a party, you want everyone to enjoy the food, so you cater for a wide range of tastes, ages, and dietary needs. The same principle applies to holiday lets: consider comfort, convenience, and thoughtful details for everyone.
Subscribe to our blog to learn more about the guest types we regularly see booking holidays and what they typically look for.
Final Thoughts
Quality matters because it drives bookings, delivers guest satisfaction, and builds long-term success. As an owner, you’re not just preparing a house, you’re crafting an experience. Focus on thoughtful design, comfortable furnishings, guest expectations, and a clear understanding of your competition. With these elements in place, your holiday let will not only meet but exceed expectations.
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