Home-Based cottage rental booking agent

Cottage and cabin owners who rent out part of the year but don't live nearby or don't have time to manage bookings.

A commission on each booking, agreed with the owner. You may also add small fees for extras such as arranging cleaning or linen.

• Clear writing and good communication
• Organised with calendars and bookings
• Customer service
• Basic photography and online listing skills

• Licensing: check with your provincial real estate or consumer regulator whether managing or booking rentals for others (especially if you handle guest payments or negotiate on owners' behalf) requires a property management or real estate licence. Rules differ by province, so confirm before you start trading
• Short-term rental rules differ by municipality and province; check business licensing, registration and zoning for you and for each property (Quebec has its own tourist accommodation registration)
• Commercial general liability insurance and clarity on who is covered for guest injuries or damage
• GST/HST and any local accommodation taxes, and who collects and remits them
• Seasonal income: plan for quiet winter months in many cottage areas

Startup costs are typically around $500 to $2,500, depending on your website or listing tools, photography, insurance and marketing. These are estimates, so confirm your own costs before taking on owners.

Monthly revenue is typically around $600 to $3,000, depending on how many cottages you handle and your commission. Starting at around 8 hours a week is realistic. Income is seasonal, and these figures are only estimates.

Check with your provincial real estate or consumer regulator whether booking rentals for others requires a property management or real estate licence. Also check short-term rental rules, insurance, GST/HST and local accommodation taxes. Quebec has its own tourist accommodation registration.