Earning Money from Your Holiday Home Rental

Renting out your holiday home is a great way to cover property expenses and, if managed well, turn a profit. To keep your tenants happy and avoid disappointments, ensure your listing matches the reality of the property. Highlight all the benefits, but avoid overpromising. Ask yourself: "Will the tenant feel they received exactly what I offered?" If the answer is yes, then your offer is realistic and fair.

Tips for Keeping Tenants Happy

Even if your property meets tenants’ expectations, attention to small details can make their stay even more enjoyable. Consider the following:

• Emergency Information: Provide a list of local emergency numbers (doctors, hospitals, etc.), and make sure tenants know where to find it, such as in the fuse box or on the inside of the front door.
• Appliance Instructions: Supply instructions for all household appliances, preferably in multiple languages. This prevents misuse and confusion.
• Key Management: Keep the key ring simple, ideally with one or two keys for all locks, and provide at least two sets. Label the keys so tenants know which locks they fit.
• Maintenance Personnel: If you have staff for gardening, pool cleaning, or housekeeping, inform tenants of their schedule and working hours in advance.
• Tableware & Utensils: Provide more than enough cutlery and crockery—double the maximum number of guests—and include wine and champagne glasses. High-quality cookware, scratch-free pots and pans, and essential kitchen tools (sharp knives, table mats, blenders, etc.) should all be in good working order.
• Storage & Cleanliness: Ensure there’s plenty of space in cupboards, provide enough clothes hangers, and make sure shower curtains are clean and fresh. Toilets should be stocked with paper, and beds made up with fresh linen. Have extra sheets and towels available for longer stays.
• Decor & Personal Items: Remove personal decorations and belongings to make the space feel more neutral and comfortable for your guests.
• Cleaning Supplies: Even if cleaning is part of the service, it’s helpful to provide basic cleaning tools like a vacuum, mop, broom, trash bags, and detergents for the dishwasher and washing machine.
• Outdoor Space: If you have a garden or pool, make sure they are well-maintained. Provide plenty of sunbeds and ensure pathways are lit at night.
• Safety Measures: Install outdoor lighting that responds to movement, and consider adding cameras or an alarm system with clear instructions. A first aid kit and functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential, as well as regularly maintained fire extinguishers.
• Child Safety: Look for potential hazards, especially for children, such as slippery paths, steep stairs, or low doorways. Either fix these issues or warn your tenants about them.
• Climate Control: Make sure the house is well-ventilated, and that heating systems work properly, with clear operating instructions.
• Smoking Policy: Clearly communicate your smoking policy. If smoking is not allowed, post small reminders throughout the house. If it is allowed, provide ashtrays.
• Local Information: Supply leaflets on local attractions, sights, and festivals. Prepare a fresh set for each new tenant.
• Guestbook: Providing a guestbook allows tenants to leave comments and share tips with future guests.

Ensuring Safe Rentals

For secure and organized rentals, follow proper procedures for making agreements, confirming bookings, and contracting tenants. Platforms like Akomgo.com can help manage these tasks.

• Verify Tenant Information: Double-check all communications and payments. If tenant details change, ask for the reason. Make sure the lease agreement is complete and accurate.
• Learn About Your Tenants: A friendly phone call can provide valuable insights into your tenants' plans. Are they a family looking for a quiet vacation, or a group ready to party? This can help you avoid renting to the wrong type of guests.
• Address Issues Promptly: If a tenant deviates from the agreement, address it immediately to prevent further complications during their stay.
• Post-Stay Checks: Inspect the property immediately after the tenants leave, and stay in touch to address any lingering questions or concerns.
• Neighbor Communication: Inform your neighbors that you are renting the property so they are aware and can notify you if any issues arise.