Short-let management for local owners

Owners of flats, spare homes and second homes who want to let short-term but lack the time or live elsewhere.

A commission on each booking, often a percentage of rental income. Some managers also charge a setup fee or pass on cleaning and laundry with a margin.

• Quick, friendly communication
• Organised with bookings and schedules
• Problem solving when things go wrong
• Managing cleaners and contractors

• Check the property's lease, mortgage and landlord permissions allow short lets
• Planning permission or local registration schemes may apply in some areas, check with the council
• Insurance: owners usually need short-let cover, and check what public liability cover you need
• Fire, gas and electrical safety duties; check what applies to the owner and to you
• Handle guest money, deposits and owner payments carefully, and keep clear written agreements
• Check how income is taxed and whether VAT registration applies to your commission

Startup costs are typically around £300 to £2,500, depending on the tools, supplies and insurance you need. These are estimates. Owners usually need short-let cover, and you should check what public liability cover applies to you.

Monthly revenue is typically around £300 to £1,500, depending on how many properties you manage and the commission you agree. This is an estimate, and it usually needs at least about 8 hours a week. Check how your income and any VAT on commission are taxed.

Check that the lease, mortgage and landlord permissions allow short lets, and whether planning permission or local registration applies in your area via the council. Also check fire, gas and electrical safety duties, and keep clear written agreements for guest money and owner payments.