Renting your holiday home out for some extra cash?

You may have bought a property abroad to stay yourself during holidays. You may however from time to time consider renting it out. Here are a few vital tips to remember:


1. Think about employing someone to make sure the gardens and the pool are kept looking immaculate. There is nothing more off-putting than a dirty pool and a messy garden. You will need to factor in an extra cost for someone to keep on top of maintenance if you are not there to do it yourself.


2. It is essential that bathrooms and kitchens are clean and well stocked. Inexpensive and easy to replace cutlery, crockery and glassware are essential in the kitchen plus toilet paper and towels in the bathroom.


3. If your property is suitable for families, most now expect there to be a washing machine - and a dishwasher is necessary too. Would you want to spend half your time washing by hand or washing up after each meal when on holiday?


4. Get a decent kitchen stove. My preference is for an electric stove – people can’t leave the gas on and cause an explosion.


5. When renting out, remove all objects that are precious to you. Trust me, they will be the things that get broken first – sod’s law! Many people put a lock on a cupboard or a loft and put all valuables safely hidden away.


6. Furniture should be strong, solid and robust. Ikea type is great, but ‘cheap as chips’ will probably turn out to be false economy.


7. You know how many people can stay in the house – in fact, when you rent it out you will no doubt specify this. Make sure there are enough chairs, crockery etc for the number of people that will be renting.


8. Spend a little extra on strong, firm yet comfortable mattresses. There is nothing like a really good, comfortable night’s sleep to make someone hasten to return or to recommend your property to friends and family.


9. Create an area and attractions guide. You’ll want to map out where the best pubs and restaurants are plus all the unmissable walks…This is just the sort of thing that makes people return time after time.


10. Throw in a welcome pack for each visitor; supply basic essentials like milk and bread together with some details of nearby shops, doctors, garages etc. Adding a bottle of the local wine cost very little but it will really endear you to your guest! (Letting agents will do this for you in you are not around)


11. You need to make sure that you are fully insured for visitors in your rental property. This is an absolute must.


12. Always ask for testimonials and feedback. That way you can correct any shortcomings and promote you property to prospective renters.


If you want a home with these qualities already built in, then I suggest you run them by your estate agent from the beginning of your search if you have not yet bought. And if you need any help just call the OGC Resource Team 0207 898 0549 - there is no cost or obligation to use our recommendations.



Kim Brown

The Overseas Guides Company

http://www.overseasbuyingguide.com/