Home owners, property investors and developers are now attracted to the short-term rental market, as they see this as an opportunity to maximise their financial returns. With the increase in the demand for short-term accommodation, we are also seeing an increase in guest expectations. A property owner who is considering joining this booming segment of the sharing economy, needs to consider market trends and guest desires, in order to achieve strong returns and create a successful business.
The medium-long term leasing options for furnished properties is also a growing trend with an increase in tenant expectations as well.
1. THE HOME IS NOW A PLACE OF BUSINESS
so the owner cannot be too emotionally attached to the property
2. DECOR REIGNS SUPREME - KEEP FURNISHINGS & STYLING MODERN
• Good quality furniture is essential
• Avoid using cheap furniture or furniture that has passed its 'use-by date'
• Beds need to be comfortable, with good quality mattresses for a good night's sleep
• Avoid bunk beds for occupational, health and safety reasons
• Linen needs to be quality, hotel standard
• Use colourful decorative cushions, lamps & artwork
• For a luxurious elegant look, add couch throws & bed runners
• Plants are an essential element in the decorating mix, so choose in-door plants which require minimal care. Good quality imitations of natural plants is the best option.
3. INVEST IN PROFESSIONAL PHOTOGRAPHY
• First impressions count, so use good photos to enhance the best features of the property
• Include cameo-shots, as guests want to see where they will sleep, dine or relax
• High-quality photography can increase the enquiry rate & conversion to a booking, by up to 40%
4. UNLIMITED WI-FI IS MANDATORY NON-NEGOTIABLE
5. A GOOD QUALITY COFFEE MACHINE
• Nespresso brand coffee machines are most popular
• A quality coffee machine has the same priority as Wi-Fi - it is non-negotiable
6. STATE OF THE ART TECHNOLOGY
• Smart TV's are the expected standard & should be located in each living area, with the very minimum being one in the master-bedroom
7. OUTDOOR ENTERTAINING
is an integral part of the Australian lifestyle
The property must include:
• A quality, easy clean BBQ
• An out-door setting
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8. EXPECT WEAR & TEAR
• It is a normal part of renting, with guests coming and going with luggage, children and possibly, pets.
• There may be a scuff mark left on a wall, or furniture may have been moved from one place to another however in the big scheme of things, these are issue which can be easily addressed.
9. REGULAR MAINTENANCE
will ensure the property is guest-ready
• Guests can be unforgiving with problems like unstable Wi-Fi, limited downloads, faulty, or ineffective, cooling and heating systems
10. PET-FRIENDLY vs OWNER PETS
• Pet-friendly accommodation is highly sought-after and these are the first properties to be booked or rented long term
• Owners who holiday in their own property with their pets, yet stipulate no pets for quests need to carefully consider this policy
• A guest who has an allergy to pets will book a non-pet-friendly property on the assumption that pets have not been allowed in the property. Consider the possibility of health issues & serious complication if the prescribed pet-policy is not adhered to.
11. IF AN OWNER WISHES TO SELL
• Forward bookings must be honoured in writing
• Relocation of the bookings must be negotiated with the guests in a timely manner
12. OWNER BOOKINGS FOR SHORT TERM STAYS
• The usual check-in and check-out procedures must be followed, to avoid delays in arrivals & departures
• Consider the impact and resultant stress on house-keeping staff
13. COMMUNICATION PROTOCOL
• Office hours are 9-5pm. Phone or call into the office are anytime during these hours
• Non-urgent business, after-hours, needs to be addressed via a phone or text message
• In an emergency after-hours, phone, leave a voice or text message.
• Email any time
14. INSURANCE
• Purchase a policy which is specifically tailored for the short-term rental market
15. WE ARE THE PROFESSIONALS SO LET US MANAGE YOUR PROPERTY
• Owners can be assured that we are specialists in our field, and that we will set appropriate rates, with the flexibility to adjust with dynamic pricing
• Allow us to apply our expertise and present you with our very best service - this is what you pay us to do.
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