The Rise of Serviced Accommodation
In recent years, more landlords have been turning properties into serviced accommodation. Instead of long-term tenants, these homes are let out on a nightly basis through platforms like Airbnb and Booking.com. The appeal is clear: higher potential income compared to a traditional tenancy.
But it isn’t as simple as uploading some photos and waiting for bookings to roll in. There are key things to consider before jumping in.
🏡 Choosing the right property
A countryside cottage attracts holidaymakers. A city apartment appeals to business travellers. Matching the property to the right audience is the foundation of success.
🛋 Rental ready
Guests expect a home that’s fully equipped. From cutlery and linen to Wi-Fi and Netflix, the standard has to be closer to a hotel than a traditional let. Furnishing and setup costs must be built into your budget.
📸 Advertising that works
Professional photos and well-staged interiors make the difference between someone scrolling past and clicking book. On top of that, every platform charges booking fees, so the numbers need to be carefully planned.
🧹 Ongoing management
Every guest changeover means cleaning, laundry, and maintenance. Standards have to stay high, as negative reviews can harm bookings fast.
💡 Running costs
All utilities, streaming services, and extras fall to you. Unlike a tenant, a guest won’t be watching the heating bill. These costs add up quickly.
For some investors, the returns can be excellent. For others, the time, energy, and upfront spend outweigh the benefits. That’s why many choose to stick with traditional lets and let professionals handle the management.
👉 If you’d like advice on whether serviced accommodation or traditional letting is right for you, fill out the form beside this post and one of our team will be in touch.