If you would like advice into how to set up your New Forest holiday home, we’re always on-hand to help with a no-obligation chat – Just email us at: hello@newforestescapes.com or call 01590 462005
Setting up your holiday home in the best possible way for guest is going to increase your revenue, encourage repeat guests, and avoid unnecessary property management calls... get it right first time and you will be set! A few guiding notes for you:
A clear house name is vital, along with a tidy driveway/garden and front porch. First impressions count, and having a well considered and well kept exterior, will really help set the tone for guests- putting them in a great mood to start their holiday.
Top Tip – Set up automatic lights on your driveway/and in your hall to help guests arriving and leaving in the evenings.
Make sure your house is stocked with the basics, like tea and coffee, cooking oils, salt and pepper, selection of herbs. Supplies like batteries and extra bulbs will also appease any potential issues that could crop up. No one wants to take the kitchen sink with them on holiday, so providing these items really does welcome the guests in to quickly get into their holiday- with a cuppa as the first port of call!
Top Tip – Provide a local welcome hamper of small produce items from local artisans, to promote and support the community. Guests will notice and appreciate the extra effort and attention the you have gone to.
Clearly signpost, or point guests to, your house manual and property manager details (alongside anything else guests may need to assist with an easy stay). Having this information in an easy-to-view place negates stress, and often enables the guest to sort out their problem first rather than calling you.
Top Tip – Create a simple A4 punched folder with tabs that offers quick access to house information.
Equip your property as you would your home, and provide double the quality of tableware (i.e plates/cutlery/crockery etc) for the maximum number of guests you can accommodate. Utensils and knives should be as abundant as at home – you don’t want guests to have to call to request a serving spoon or an extra chopping board because you only have one.
Top Tip – Download our inventory list to help you check off all the items you need here.
The finish and style of your property has a huge impact on the revenue you can generate. If offering you holiday cottage as an investment (as oppose to a second home that you will use), we highly recommend taking note of what your target audience would like when decorating, rather than being guided by your personal style. Most homes benefit from contemporary interiors, but all homes should be easy to keep clean, fresh and tidy.
Top Tip – Most comprehensive holiday letting agencies will have stylists on hand to help support you in styling your property. Ask for help – it really will help increase your revenue.
Making your house all singing and dancing with ‘extras’ will really make your home stand out from competition. Having a hot tub, swimming pool or games room will appeal in high seasons, as well as off-peak months- and this can make all the difference to having healthy bookings throughout the year.
Top Tip – Ask the NFE team for advice on costs versus revenue, so you can measure the return.
Make sure your property provides the same warmth and comfort as home. Include books or maps of the local area for guest to browse, and leave leaflets of local attractions for them to flick through. Finishing touches like wall art, plants and flowers, trinkets, games and jigsaws (plus plenty of throws and cushions) all add to the appeal.
Top Tip – High Street brands are great for these extras, so it doesn’t need to cost the earth.
If you would like advice into how to set up your New Forest holiday home, we’re always on-hand to help with a no-obligation chat – Just email us at: hello@newforestescapes.com or call 01590 462005
