What are the most popular features for holiday lets?
This is a question all holiday property owners should ask, for one simple reason. Staying ahead of the competition in a crowded market is essential for maximizing your holiday let income.
As we step into 2024, let’s explore the top-performing trends and features that will make your property stand out and boost its profitability.
Hot Tubs and Spa Features
When it comes to attracting guests and delivering that “wow” factor, nothing adds more appeal to a property than hot tubs and spa features. A relaxing soak under the stars or a warm dip after a day of exploring the local attractions can be the deciding factor for many guests. The demand for holiday properties with a hot tub has been on the rise, and we expect this trend to continue through 2024.
Have multiple bathrooms and toilets (and make them top-quality)
Holidaymakers value luxury and comfort, and when it comes to comfort, guests prioritise modern, well-designed bathrooms (and as many of them as possible). No-one wants to spend their holiday queueing for the loo or washing their hair under a shower that’s weaker than your Grandma’s tea.
It goes without saying that upgrading your holiday let with extra toilets, spacious showers, and modern bathrooms will significantly increase guest satisfaction. A holiday let with multiple en-suite bedrooms will appeal to larger groups and families, which could increase your booking rates. We always recommend a bedroom to bathroom ratio of 1:1 (as far as possible).
Be a pet-friendly holiday property
Fur babies are part of the family. So it’s no wonder that pet-friendly holiday lets have become increasingly popular, especially in places like The Lake District where people book walking holidays. Allowing pets in your property opens your doors to a wider customer base. In fact, many pet owners are willing to pay a premium for accommodation that welcomes their four-legged friends.
Now clearly, having furry guests means extra cleaning, so we recommend using a holiday let management company who will arrange a full, professional deep clean between bookings. They can also get all the necessary T&Cs and insurances in place to protect you and your property.
Click the link below to find out more about our holiday property management services
Flexible Calendar Bookings
Flexibility is key when it comes to boosting your holiday let income. Some holidaymakers may be looking for a quick weekend getaway, while others prefer a longer stay. Offering a flexible booking calendar, including shorter 2-3-night breaks and variable changeover days, accommodates a broader range of guests. Plus, catering to more booking preferences increases the chances of filling gaps in your calendar, ensuring a consistent stream of income throughout the year.
Professional Photography
First impressions matter, and those all-important visuals help your property listing make an impact. Hiring a professional photographer is an investment that pays for itself in increased bookings. They will deliver stunning images that showcase your property and highlight its unique features – taking pictures on your smartphone (even the latest iPhone) just won’t be the same. Remember – high-quality imagery doesn’t just attract potential guests –it also conveys a sense of professionalism for your listing.
One last thing…
Staying ahead in the holiday let industry requires strategic planning, following trends and a strong focus on guest satisfaction. By understanding the top-performing features for holiday lets in your area (and their potential to boost your rental income) you can determine your spending priorities for the year ahead. Embrace the trends, cater to new demographics, and watch your property bookings soar!
Skies Holidays is an independent holiday letting agency based in Cumbria offering property management and property development services. Our directors – Matt and Jack – are local Cumbrian lads who take a hands-on approach to property management, combining professionalism with a personal touch and local knowledge.
Call us or visit our website for more information on our holiday-let portfolio. You can even use our Rental Income Calculator to find out how upgrading your property could boost your rental income.
