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DOWNLOAD OUR NEW E-BOOK! https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Adams Taranda, the Co-Founder and CEO of Booklee, is the special guest on today’s show.

Adams shares the story of Booklee and how simple it is to create a direct booking site via the platform.

He also discusses direct booking strategies, and the trends hosts and property managers need to know.

Adams named StayFi as his favourite brand in the industry and gave special shout-outs to Jenn Boyles and Simon Lehmann.

The episode includes sponsor mentions for HCH Financial Services, Your AirHost, Key Data, and Minut.

3:36 Adams’s journey in the STR industry
5:10 The story of Booklee
9:23 The onboarding process with Booklee 
11:14 Integrating with Booklee
13:00 How to turn OTA guests into future direct bookers
19:00 How to ensure guests trust your direct booking platform
22:26 Head to bookl.ee to set up a direct booking site for $26 per month 
23:40 The future for Booklee
25:31 The STR trends hosts need to know
31:22 Favourite brand: StayFi
32:40 Individual shout-outs: Jenn Boyles and Simon Lehmann
34:05 No. 1 lesson learned since founding Booklee

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Free ticket for Your Air Success on 8 November: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost
New e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book
Property Management Masterclass podcast series: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/property-management-masterclass

Adams Taranda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/%C4%81dams-taranda-64a695162/
Booklee: https://www.bookl.ee/

Mentions:

StayFi: https://stayfi.com/

Jenn Boyles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/

Simon Lehmann: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-lehmann-8375753b/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Your AirHost: https://www.yourairhost.co.uk/

Key Data: https://www.keydatadashboard.com/products/prodata?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook

Minut: https://www.minut.com/?utm_campaign=holidaycottagehandbook&utm_source=partners

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Welcome to HCH Bitesize – a new podcast series brought to you by Holiday Cottage Handbook and Hostfully!

This weekly show delves into various topics essential to the short-term rentals industry. Episodes feature expert guests from across the STR space who share their insights and practical advice. These industry leaders help listeners enhance their knowledge and build successful and sustainable property management businesses.

Today’s episode features Ryan Saylor, the Director of Product Marketing at Beyond. Ryan shares his top five tips to utilise the power of dynamic pricing for short-term rentals.

1:56 What is dynamic pricing?
2:31 How does dynamic pricing work in the world of short-term rentals?
3:33 The difference between dynamic pricing and manually setting your rates
5:04 The extra revenue a dynamic pricing strategy can achieve
6:32 Tracking demand can be tricky
7:10 Dynamic pricing tip No. 1: do not set it and forget it
8:47 Dynamic pricing tip No. 2: use the right data
10:06 Dynamic pricing tip No. 3: monitor success
11:28 Dynamic pricing tip No. 4: set up a routine
12:33 Dynamic pricing tip No. 5: understand the non-pricing levers
15:03 Find out more about Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

Are you looking to streamline your operations and amaze your guests? Look no further than Hostfully! Try their top-rated property management software and award-winning digital guidebooks today. Join the thousands of satisfied property managers who trust Hostfully to grow their business: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/

Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Ryan Saylor: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-saylor/

Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

Got a comment or interested in being a guest on the show? Email james@holidaycottagehandbook.com.

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Property Management Masterclass is a six-part special brought to you by Holiday Cottage Handbook and Your AirHost.

Hosted by Holiday Cottage Handbook's James Varley and featuring Your AirHost Co-Founder, Stefan Hoffelner, the series contains a vast range of expert tips to help short-term rental hosts and property managers build successful and sustainable businesses.

Episode 4 focuses on guest communication.

2:01 Communicate as soon as the guest books
2:21 Find out information about the guest
3:20 Send clear and concise check-in instructions
4:11 Respond quickly (within an hour ideally)
5:10 Automated messaging 
6:10 Be flexible in terms of sharing check-in details
7:24 Deliver a great guest experience by asking questions
8:58 Dealing with guests who don’t communicate 
10:20 Digital guidebooks
12:34 Video tutorials 
14:14 When to communicate with guests during their stay
15:33 Incentivise the good review and direct booking
17:18 Communicate in your rental – try using QR codes

Links:

Register for your free ticket to Your Air Success on Friday 8 November at Six Park Place in London (near Green Park tube station): https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Your AirHost: https://www.yourairhost.co.uk/
James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Stefan Hoffelner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-hoffelner-6b360955/
Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

Send us a text

Property Management Masterclass is a six-part special brought to you by Holiday Cottage Handbook and Your AirHost.

Hosted by Holiday Cottage Handbook's James Varley and featuring Your AirHost Co-Founder, Stefan Hoffelner, the series contains a vast range of expert tips to help short-term rental hosts and property managers build successful and sustainable businesses.

Episode 3 focuses on essential amenities.

2:03 Essential amenities, starting with Wi-Fi 
2:36 Hotel quality linen 
3:12 Comfy towels 
3:51 Tea, coffee, and milk
4:07 Welcome gift 
4:22 Work from home space 
5:13 Kitchen essentials 
6:43 Stay in your property to triple check everything
7:58 Desirable amenities for London rentals
8:29 Cater for pets if your location is suitable 
9:15 Hot tubs and EV chargers
10:38 Appealing to affluent guests
12:07 Upselling 

Links:

Register for your free ticket to Your Air Success on Friday 8 November at Six Park Place in London (near Green Park tube station): https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Your AirHost: https://www.yourairhost.co.uk/
James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Stefan Hoffelner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-hoffelner-6b360955/
Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

Send us a text

Property Management Masterclass is a six-part special brought to you by Holiday Cottage Handbook and Your AirHost.

Hosted by Holiday Cottage Handbook's James Varley and featuring Your AirHost Co-Founder, Stefan Hoffelner, the series contains a vast range of expert tips to help short-term rental hosts and property managers build successful and sustainable businesses.

Episode 2 focuses on how to create the perfect listing.

2:14 Start with professional photography
3:28 Description, titles, and SEO tactics
4:55 Try mentioning the best amenity in your title
5:44 Be honest and transparent
7:33 The OTAs you need to be present on
9:09 The importance of direct bookings
11:00 Channel management 
12:19 Guest verification 
14:11 Calendar management 
15:51 Length of stay options

Links:

Register for your free ticket to Your Air Success on Friday 8 November at Six Park Place in London (near Green Park tube station): https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Your AirHost: https://www.yourairhost.co.uk/
James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Stefan Hoffelner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-hoffelner-6b360955/
Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

Send us a text

Property Management Masterclass is a six-part special brought to you by Holiday Cottage Handbook and Your AirHost.

Hosted by Holiday Cottage Handbook's James Varley and featuring Your AirHost Co-Founder, Stefan Hoffelner, the series contains a vast range of expert tips to help short-term rental hosts and property managers build successful and sustainable businesses.

Episode 1 focuses on the basics of hosting, including furnishing your rental, the guest journey, amenities, tech, and much more.

2:15 Furnish the property and define your audience
3:05 Good quality furniture is imperative
4:45 The property must photograph well
5:38 Think about the guest journey 
6:36 Use the property before it’s available to check everything
7:38 Video instructions can be very useful
8:20 Get as much exposure as possible across different platforms
8:53 Always install the best Wi-Fi 
10:35 The rental must be ready from day one
11:47 Bed, Wi-Fi, and sofa are so important 
12:50 Kitchen appliances are vital – make it a home from home
14:02 Health and safety, including fire safety, and carbon monoxide alarms
15:10 The best amenities will depend on your location and target audience
16:42 Essential tech to get started, starting with property management software
17:53 Digital guidebooks
18:10 Insurance and risk management 
20:13 Cleaning and maintenance: check, check, and check again
23:43 It is vital to set expectations for your cleaners (and have back up)
25:38 Insurance

Links:

Register for your free ticket to Your Air Success on Friday 8 November at Six Park Place in London (near Green Park tube station): https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Your AirHost: https://www.yourairhost.co.uk/
James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Stefan Hoffelner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-hoffelner-6b360955/
Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

Send us a text

The dreaded abolishment of the furnished holiday lettings (FHL) tax regime is back. It had been hoped this proposal had been kicked into the long grass due to last month’s election – but the new government has stuck with the scheme.

Alistair Handyside, from the Professional Association of Self-Caterers (PASC UK), is leading lobbying efforts – and he is the special guest on today’s show.

During the episode, Alistair outlines what hosts and property managers can do to support the sector, discusses the potential impact of any legislation, and calls on the government to gather extensive data before formulating policy.

3:58 Abolishing the FHL tax regime is back on the agenda
5:34 Working in conjunction with the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers
6:30 There will be significant economic impacts 
7:49 20% of operators will give up if the FHL tax regime is abolished
9:40 What PASC UK would like: get the data first
11:20 The data might surprise the government
15:37 How does this fit with the government’s plans to grow the economy?
16:52 What can operators do to help?
21:35 Rallying the troops for another push 
24:00 Light at the end of the tunnel?
26:26 The case for furnished holiday lets

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Alistair Handyside: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistair-handyside-mbe-4170b216/
PASC UK: https://www.pascuk.co.uk/
PASC UK FHL reports: https://www.pascuk.co.uk/reports/
Update on new FHL abolition paper: https://www.pascuk.co.uk/francis-clark-update-on-fhl-abolition-august-24/
Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/5KMN6JY

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=HCH

Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

SuperControl: https://www.supercontrol.co.uk/

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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The focus this week is Vrbo and how to succeed on one of the world’s premier online travel agencies.

Our special guest is James Cassidy, Senior Director – Partner Success Vacation Rentals, Expedia Group.

During the interview, James shares five top tips to achieve success on Vrbo and outlines a host of growing industry trends, including ‘set-jetting’ and ‘go-cations’. 

James picked Sustonica as his favourite brand and gave Merilee Karr a special shout-out.

4:05 James’s story in the short-term rentals industry 
7:31 How much the industry has changed
10:47 Continued growth 
13:08 Focus on Vrbo
16:11 Competing with Airbnb and Booking.com 
20:32 Why hosts should list on Vrbo
24:28 How to increase occupancy
32:48 Optimally presenting your property
33:50 Industry trends
36:40 ‘Set-jetting’
38:25 ‘Go-cations’
40:42 Tip No. 1: Accept and honour the bookings
41:12 Tip No. 2: Cancellation policy flexibility
42:01 Tip No. 3: Provide the best in-stay experience
43:12 Tip No. 4: Price your property effectively 
44:34 Tip No. 5: Keep an eye on changing traveller needs
49:40 Favourite brand: Sustonica
50:45 Individual shout-out: Merilee Karr 
53:17: No. 1 piece of advice: understand the traveller

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

James Cassidy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamescassidy27/
Expedia Group: https://expediagroup.com/
Vrbo: https://www.vrbo.com/en-gb/

Mentions:

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Merilee Karr: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merileekarr/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

SuperControl: https://www.supercontrol.co.uk/

Orana Stay: https://www.oranastay.com/

Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Matt Jeffery, Managing Director and Tax Partner at holiday let tax specialists Zeal, is the special guest on this week’s show.

Matt and his team work with holiday let owners across the UK – helping them pay the right amount of tax, and not a penny more. Zeal’s team of capital allowances specialists and quantity surveyors unlock tax savings for holiday let owners on the purchase, refurbishment, and construction of holiday let properties.

During this episode, learn:

• How Zeal helps holiday let investors 
• Key facts about stamp duty, capital allowances, VAT, and inheritance tax
• Whether you should buy in your personal name or through a limited company 
• Common misconceptions about holiday let taxes

Matt picked Sykes Holiday Cottages as his favourite brand and gave a special shout-out to Alistair Handyside from PASC UK.

To contact Zeal:

• Call: 01633 287898
• Email: hello@gozeal.co.uk
• Visit the website: https://gozeal.co.uk/services/industries/hch-furnished-holiday-lets/

3:22 How Zeal helps holiday let investors in the UK
5:22 The holiday let tax landscape
6:22 The infamous spring budget 
7:41 Proposals to abolish the furnished holiday lets tax regime did not make it through parliament
9:15 What the new Labour government might do
13:17 Stamp duty 
16:12 Capital allowances 
18:52 When can you make a claim for capital allowances?
19:26 VAT
22:58 Inheritance tax
25:00 Buy in your personal name or through a limited company?
26:30 Common misconceptions about holiday let taxes
28:09 The process of onboarding new clients 
29:46 Be aware of business rates criteria
31:55 Get in touch with Zeal: hello@gozeal.co.uk
34:57 Favourite brand: Sykes Holiday Cottages
35:34 Individual shout-out: Alistair Handyside from PASC UK
36:26 No. 1 piece of tax advice: claim your capital allowances

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Matt Jeffery: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-jeffery-156a8245/

Zeal: https://gozeal.co.uk/services/industries/hch-furnished-holiday-lets/

Mentions:

Sykes Holiday Cottages: https://www.sykescottages.co.uk/

Alistair Handyside: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistair-handyside-mbe-4170b216/

PASC UK: https://www.pascuk.co.uk/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

SuperControl: https://www.supercontrol.co.uk/

Orana Stay: https://www.oranastay.com/

Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Cynthia Huang, the Co-Founder and CEO of Dtravel, is the special guest on today’s show.

During this episode, Cynthia talks about founding Dtravel – a platform that connects travellers directly with vacation rental owners.

During this episode, learn:

• Cynthia’s journey in the short-term rentals industry
• The reasons for launching Dtravel
• Why hosts need to understand the power of AI
• Why investors should be looking much further than their hometown

Cynthia picked Ministry of Villas as her favourite brand and gave a special shout-out to Mark Simpson from Boostly.

3:47 Cynthia’s story in the short-term rentals industry 
6:39 Airhosts Forum: https://airhostsforum.com/
7:15 Founding Dtravel
12:13 What is the blockchain?
13:54 Who is Dtravel built for?
16:34 How to set up your properties on Dtravel and attract direct bookings
19:00 You don’t have to get paid in Bitcoin! 
20:29 Dtravel only takes a 3% transaction fee on bookings
21:14 Why hosts and property managers should be using Dtravel 
24:24 Anyone around the world can use Dtravel
26:10 Why hosts need to be aware of the power of AI
28:15 Top tips for investors: consider buying in Albania 
32:04 Favourite brand: Ministry of Villas
32:29 Individual shout-out: Mark Simpson from Boostly 
33:36 No. 1 lesson learned from being CEO of Dtravel

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Cynthia Huang: https://www.linkedin.com/in/imcynthia/
Dtravel: https://www.dtravel.com/

Mentions:

Ministry of Villas: https://www.ministryofvillas.com/

Mark Simpson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmarksimpson/

Boostly: https://boostly.co.uk/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=HCH

Apollo 3D: https://www.apollo3d.co.uk/fhl/

Search and Stay: https://www.searchandstay.com/

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

Send us a text

Fiona Campbell, CEO of the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, is the special guest on today’s show.

Fiona is playing a key role in lobbying the Scottish government after the introduction of a controversial licensing scheme – which data suggests is having a disastrous effect on the short-term rentals industry and the wider tourism sector.

During this episode, learn:

• The impact of licensing on Scotland’s STR businesses 
• How major events like the Edinburgh Festival are being affected
• What Fiona would say to Keir Starmer and John Swinney
• Lobbying efforts – what’s the end goal?

Fiona picked Key Data and SuperControl as her favourite brands, and gave a special shout-out to Alistair Handyside, Chair of the Professional Association of Self-Caterers (PASC UK).

2:31 Fiona’s story in the self-catering industry
3:52 How things have changed during 22 years of hosting
5:55 Stay at Fiona’s place: https://mansefieldhouse.co.uk/
7:11 What is going on in Scotland?
11:30 What do hosts and managers in Scotland need to do now?
14:19 The impact of licensing on Scotland’s STR businesses 
16:55 The impact on tourism
18:58 The impact on major events, like the Edinburgh Festival
21:10 Are hotels the big winners?
21:46 ASSC lobbying efforts – what’s the end goal?
23:36 How the new UK government might change things
24:28 Fiona’s message to Keir Starmer and John Swinney
25:10 How people in Scotland can support the ASSC
26:44 What can the UK and the rest of the world learn from Scotland?
28:51 The importance of data in the legislation process 
32:06 Favourite brands in the STR industry: Key Data and SuperControl
32:57 Individual shout-out: Alistair Handyside, from PASC UK
33:43 No. 1 lesson learned: it is possible to push water uphill! 

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Fiona Campbell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionaccampbell/
Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers: https://www.assc.co.uk/

Mentions:

Key Data: https://www.keydatadashboard.com/products/prodata?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook

SuperControl: https://www.supercontrol.co.uk/

Alistair Handyside: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistair-handyside-mbe-4170b216/

PASC UK: https://www.pascuk.co.uk/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=HCH

Apollo 3D: https://www.apollo3d.co.uk/fhl/

Search and Stay: https://www.searchandstay.com/

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Or, if you really enjoy our content, buy us a coffee: 
https://buymeacoffee.com/hchpodcast

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Vered Raviv Schwarz, President and COO of Guesty, is the special guest on today’s show.

Guesty is one of the leading property management solutions in the short-term rentals industry – whether you run one property or hundreds.

During this episode, learn:

• Why companies need to think big from day one
• Why Guesty stands out from the crowd
• Guesty’s growth plans
• STR trends
• Tips for hosts and property managers

2:35 Vered’s career journey: journalism, law, tech, and short-term rentals
5:41 Growing a company: think big from the outset
7:32 The importance of having an end goal
9:37 Joining Guesty and making an impact on global trends
12:23 The STR industry is the new kid on the block
14:53 Guesty elevator pitch
18:53 What marks Guesty out from the crowd
20:25 Helping hosts scale
21:19 Guesty’s growth plans
23:28 More consolidation in the PMS space
25:46 STR industry trends
28:16 Vered’s top tips for hosts and property managers
31:09 Favourite brand in the STR space: Breezeway
31:38 Individual mention: Amy Hinote
32:36 No. 1 lesson learned

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Vered Raviv Schwarz: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vered-raviv-schwarz/
Guesty: https://www.guesty.com/

Mentions:

Breezeway: https://www.breezeway.io/
Amy Hinote: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amymutual/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Apollo 3D: https://www.apollo3d.co.uk/fhl/

Touch Stay: https://touchstay.com/?utm_source=HolidayCottageHandbook&utm_medium=email+social&utm_campaign=airbnb

Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

Search and Stay: https://www.searchandstay.com/

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

Send us a text

Direct booking expert Jenn Boyles is the special guest on today’s show.

Jenn shares her top five direct booking tips, discusses industry trends, and talks about how to achieve trust as a host and property manager.

Jenn named Superhog as her favourite brand and gave Catherine Ratcliffe a special shout-out.

She also previewed the online Direct Booking Success Summit, which will take place on 8-10 October. Sign up (for free) here: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/

The episode includes sponsor mentions for HCH Financial Services, Your AirHost, Key Data, and Minut.

3:45 Jenn’s journey as a host and STR professional
7:44 The pitfalls of being listed on a single platform
9:26 Where should you list your rentals when starting out?
11:12 How do you turn an OTA guest into a direct booker?
13:35 This is hospitality, people!
14:36 How to achieve trust as a host 
16:50 Jenn’s top hospitality tips
18:38 Trends in the STR world: over-saturation, regulation, and AI
23:25 The best locations for STRs
24:53 Jenn’s top five direct booking tips
33:36 Favourite brand: Superhog
34:32 Individual shout-out: Catherine Ratcliffe
36:12 No. 1 lesson learned: you are not alone!

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Free ticket for Your Air Success on 8 November: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book
Property Management Masterclass podcast series: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/property-management-masterclass

Jenn Boyles: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennboyles/
Direct Booking Success: https://directbookingsuccess.com/
Direct Booking Success Summit: https://directbookingsuccesssummit.com/
Free guide: 10 ways to drive guests to your website instead of Airbnb: https://directbookingsuccess.com/10-ways-to-drive-guests-to-your-website-instead-of-airbnb/

Mentions:

Superhog: https://superhog.com/
Catherine Ratcliffe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ratcliffecatherine/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Your AirHost: https://www.yourairhost.co.uk/

Key Data: https://www.keydatadashboard.com/products/prodata?utm_source=referral&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook

Minut: https://www.minut.com/?utm_campaign=holidaycottagehandbook&utm_source=partners

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Henrik Kjellberg, CEO of Awaze, is the special guest on today’s show.

Awaze is home to a host of well-known brands in the holiday rentals industry, including Hoseasons, NOVASOL, and Cottages.com, who between them manage more than 100,000 properties across Europe.

During this episode, learn:

• How to keep owners and guests happy
• The top three amenities for short-term rentals 
• Key trends in the STR industry
• What Awaze prioritises during the acquisitions process

3:04 Henrik’s journey in the travel industry
4:31 The growth of Awaze
6:00 How to delight owners and guests
8:34 The importance of being ‘hyperlocal’
10:43 How to deliver an outstanding guest experience
13:48 Getting your rates right
16:26 Henrik’s top tips for hosts and property managers
19:08 Key trends in the STR space
20:35 What makes a great acquisition for Awaze
22:24 Favourite brand: Ardennes Etape
23:37 Individual shout-out: Simon Lehmann 
24:27 No. 1 piece of advice: deliver a great product

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Henrik Kjellberg: https://www.linkedin.com/in/henrikkjellberg/
Awaze: https://www.awaze.com/

Mentions:

Ardennes-etaps: https://www.ardennes-etape.co.uk/
Simon Lehmann: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-lehmann-8375753b/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Touch Stay: https://touchstay.com/?utm_source=HolidayCottageHandbook&utm_medium=email+social&utm_campaign=airbnb

Smiling House Luxury: https://smilinghouse.ch/

RentalWise: https://www.rentalwise.com/

Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/hch/

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Mark Shepherd, Founder and Managing Director of Apollo 3D, is the special guest on this week’s podcast.

Apollo 3D works with a large number of short-term rental owners, helping them develop 3D virtual tours, drone videos, and direct booking websites.

During this episode, learn:

• How Apollo 3D content can be utilised across numerous different channels
• How you can create a video version of a digital guidebook
• Why Apollo 3D can be a cost-effective solution 
• The process for developing content and direct booking websites

4:30 The story of Apollo 3D
5:53 Apollo 3D services for STR owners: photography, videos, drone shots, and direct booking websites
7:46 The content can be utilised across different channels: website, social media, newsletter, etc.
9:15 The process for creating video content for your property 
12:53 A guest communication tool: the video version of a digital guidebook
14:06 The package of goods STR owners will receive from Apollo 3D
15:39 The feedback from STR hosts proves the value of this content
17:34 Apollo 3D has developed content for garden sheds up to country piles (and everything in between)
18:55 Apollo 3D is operational across the UK and works with trusted collaborators abroad
19:51 The cost varies from a few hundred pounds upwards and depends on the brief 
21:04 The process for developing direct booking websites 
22:43 Apollo 3D’s flagship projects with leading brands
24:01 The growth of the holiday let industry in the UK
25:22 No. 1 lesson learned from founding Apollo 3D

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB
Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY
Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY
Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6
Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Mark Shepherd: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thisisshep/
Apollo 3D: https://apollo3d.co.uk/fhl/

Sponsor links:

Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/hch/

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Smiling House Luxury: https://smilinghouse.ch/

Orana Stay: https://www.oranastay.com/

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Dale Smith, CEO and Founder of Host & Stay, is the special guest on today’s Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast.

Dale discussed Host & Stay’s rapid growth, the importance of marketing, hosting tips, key amenities for short-term rentals, industry trends, and more.

During this episode, learn:

·       Why Host & Stay stands out in the property management space

·       Why the location of your rental is so important

·       Ideal amenities

·       Cleaning and maintenance tips

·       Trends, challenges, and opportunities in the industry

Dale picked Boom for his favourite brand and gave Rudy Abrahami from Maveriks a special shout-out.

4:38 The story of Host & Stay

7:17 What makes Host & Stay stand out

9:19 Host & Stay’s expansion across the UK

10:53 Onboarding properties: make sure you invest in marketing 

13:16 What Host & Stay looks for in acquisitions

15:28 How to utilise marketing to grow your property management business 

18:27 The wider Host & Stay Group

22:06 The future for Host & Stay: more growth, international focus

23:37 Dale’s top hosting tips, starting with location being key

26:44 The key amenities: why you need to be dog-friendly

28:41 Cleaning and maintenance tips

31:35 Key trends in the short-term rentals industry

35:27 Host & Stay’s commitment to sustainability 

38:14 Challenges and opportunities in the sector

40:51 Favourite brand: Boom

41:27 Individual shout-out: Rudy Abrahami from Maveriks

42:23 No. 1 lesson learned: there’s no perfect answer

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Dale Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dalesmithpvl/

Host & Stay: https://hostandstay.co.uk/host/?utm_source=holidaycottagehandbook&utm_medium=partner&utm_campaign=HOST&utm_content=20240618content

Sponsor links:

Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/hch/

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Smiling House Luxury: https://smilinghouse.ch/

Orana Stay: https://www.oranastay.com/

Mentions:

Boom: https://www.boomnow.com/

Rudy Abrahami: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rudy-abrahami-21622368/

Maveriks: https://www.maveriks.com/

Enjoy the show?

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Margot Schmorak, the CEO and Co-Founder of Hostfully, is the special guest on today’s Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast.

Margot discussed her varied career, the story of Hostfully, and shared hosting tips and trends.

During this episode, learn:

·       The story of Hostfully and why it stands out in the property management software space

·       Why Guesty’s acquisition of Rentals United was no surprise

·       Why you should use a digital guidebook

·       Trends to look out for as a host and property manager

Margot picked PriceLabs for her favourite brand and gave Robin Craigen and Nicholas Halverson special shout-outs.

3:21 Margot’s career: nanny, barista, architecture, Apple, start-ups…and Hostfully!

5:47 The story of Hostfully

8:41 What makes Hostfully stand out in the PMS space

11:40 Margot’s thoughts on Guesty’s acquisition of Rentals United

12:51 Will we see more consolidation in the PMS space?

14:45 Solutions can be more user-friendly

16:20 A number of STR platforms are too complicated

17:20 The challenges the STR industry is facing

21:21 Being a female founder

25:15 Top tips for hosts and property managers 

27:57 Major trends in the STR industry

30:18 Favourite brand in the STR space: PriceLabs

31:33 Individual shout-outs: Robin Craigen from Moving Mountains and Nicholas Halverson from Osa Property Management 

32:56 Biggest lesson learned since founding Hostfully

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Margot Schmorak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mschmorak/

Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Touch Stay: https://touchstay.com/?utm_source=HolidayCottageHandbook&utm_medium=email+social&utm_campaign=airbnb

Smiling House Luxury: https://smilinghouse.ch/

Mentions:

PriceLabs: https://hello.pricelabs.co/

Robin Craigen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robincraigen/

Moving Mountains: https://www.movingmountains.com/

Nicholas Halverson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholashalverson/

Osa Property Management: https://osapropertymanagement.com/

Other:

Enjoy the show?

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Dami Okedara from Search and Stay is the special guest on today’s Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast.

Dami shares the story of Search and Stay – a commission-free (for hosts) online travel agency based in Australia.

During this episode, learn:

·       Why hosts should list on Search and Stay

·       How to use SEO to boost your listings

·       Why you need to utilise data and set seasonal rates 

·       The importance of outstanding photography

Dami picked Interhome for his favourite brand and gave the Search and Stay Founder, plus HCH Founder, James Varley, a special shout-out.

4:19 Dami’s journey in the short-term rentals world

5:05 The story of Search and Stay

6.37 How Search and Stay stands out 

7:27 The future for Search and Stay: international growth

8:18 Why hosts should list on Search and Stay (zero commission!)

10:56 Removing commission fees for hosts 

12:34 How to upload your rentals to Search and Stay

14:12 How you can utilise SEO to boost your listings

16:08 Head to www.searchandstay.com for further details

17:14 Top hosting tips: utilise data and set seasonal rates 

18:50 Eye-catching photography is crucial

20:31 STR trends to look out for

21:45 Favourite brand: Interhome

22:50 Individual shout-out: Search and Stay Founder and HCH Founder, James Varley (very kind!)

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Dami Okedara: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dami-okedara-head-of-sales-7146292b0/

Search and Stay: https://www.searchandstay.com/

Sponsor links:

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

RentalWise: https://www.rentalwise.com/

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Smiling House Luxury: https://smilinghouse.ch/

Orana Stay: https://www.oranastay.com/

Mentions:

Interhome: https://www.interhome.co.uk/

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Vanessa de Souza Lage, CEO and Co-Founder of Sustonica, is the special guest on today’s Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast.

From property management in Rome to setting up Rentals United and eventually founding Sustonica, Vanessa is a trailblazer in the short-term rentals space.

During this episode, learn:

·       Why Sustonica is making a difference in the STR space

·       How to achieve sustainability certification for your rental

·       The advantages of earning certification

·       The simple things you can do to be more sustainable 

·       Why we need more education about sustainability 

Vanessa picked Enso Connect for her favourite brand and gave Cristiana Carpini a special shout-out.

4:31 Vanessa’s story in the STR industry

7:27 Top tips for hosts and property managers

10:11 How the STR industry has developed since Rentals United was launched 

13:54 The elevator pitch for Sustonica

17:06 How to earn sustainability certification (it’s simpler than you think)

20:58 The advantages of earning sustainability certification

22:34 The cost and further information 

23:47 Guests are looking to stay at eco-friendly rentals

24:26 The simple things you can do to be more sustainable 

28:20 More education is needed to help people implement sustainability

30:56 What would you say to hosts who say they don’t have the time or money for sustainability?

34:31 Favourite brand: Enso Connect

35:04 Individual shout-out: Cristiana Carpini

35:52 No. 1 lesson learned since founding Sustonica 

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Vanessa de Souza Lage: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessadesouzalage/

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Sponsor links:

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

RentalWise: https://www.rentalwise.com/

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Orana Stay: https://www.oranastay.com/

Mentions:

EnviroRental: https://envirorental.earth/

Enso Connect: https://ensoconnect.com/

Cristiana Carpini: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristiana-carpini-40b65413/

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Matt Landau, Founder of www.VRMB.com, is the special guest on today’s Holiday Cottage Handbook Podcast.

The episode traverses the joy of travel, breaking up gang violence in Panama(!), hosting tips, guest emotions, eco-friendly rentals, AI, direct bookings, regulation, and much more.

Matt picked Inhabit for his favourite brand and gave Valerie Gangas from Juniper Holiday + Home a special shout-out.

4:48 Matt’s story begins with a love for travel

11:43 Dealing with gang violence in Panama

15:31 The elevator pitch for VRMB.com

19:25 How to be a brilliant host

24:06 Guest emotions are important 

28:15 Are guests demanding eco-friendly rentals?

29:36 How is AI changing the industry?

32:14 Are direct bookings the be-all and end-all?

35:32 Matt’s message to political leaders about STR regulation

45:43 Favourite brand: Inhabit

50:01 Individual shout-out: Valerie Gangas from Juniper Holiday + Home

52:02 No. 1 piece of advice: don’t do it! 

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Matt Landau: https://www.linkedin.com/in/landaumatt/

VRMB.com: https://www.vrmb.com/

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the furnished holiday lettings tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

Sponsor links:

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

RentalWise: https://www.rentalwise.com/

Mentions:

Inhabit: https://inhabit.com/

Valerie Gangas: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valerie-gangas/

Juniper Holiday + Home: https://www.juniperholidayandhome.com/

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Alex Caravitis, CEO and Co-Founder of Hosthub, is the special guest on today’s show.

Find out more about one of the top-rated property management solutions on the market, plus discover 2024 trends and various hosting tips.

Listen in to learn:

·       Why professionalisation is the leading trend

·       How AI can supercharge your guest communication

·       The benefits of having a direct booking channel

·       How Hosthub can take your business to the next level 

·       Hosthub’s AI assistant takes the stress out of guest communication

Alex picked Tourmie as his favourite brand and gave a special shout-out to Marcus Rader from Hostaway.

Hosthub offers a 14-day free trial and 30% off for Holiday Cottage Handbook readers! Hosthub's team will set you up and get you synced with zero effort on your side. Benefit from world-class partners and take your vacation rental business to the next level. 

3:41 2024 is tracking up compared to last year 

4:36 Demand remains strong for short-term rentals 

5:06 What we should call our industry 

7:08 What we can do to ensure any regulation is fair and equitable 

9:03 Key trends in the industry: professionalisation is number one 

11:58 How to ensure success in 2024

14:48 AI can help to supercharge your guest communication

16:23 Why you need a direct booking channel 

19:11 Advice to hosts who are worried about running a website

20:56 The elevator pitch for Hosthub

23:03 The key things Hosthub can help hosts and property managers achieve

25:06 Hosthub’s AI assistant answers guest questions 

28:59 Favourite brand: Tourmie

29:43 Individual shout-out: Marcus Rader from Hostaway

30:26 No. 1 lesson learned since co-founding Hosthub

Links:

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the furnished holiday lettings tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Alex Caravitis: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandercaravitis/

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Mentions:

Tourmie: https://tourmie.com/

Marcus Rader: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketingmarcus/

Hostaway: https://www.hostaway.com/

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Alistair Handyside, Executive Chair of the Professional Association of Self Caterers (PASC UK), is the special guest on today’s show.

Alistair discusses his story in the industry – from software development all the way through to launching PASC UK, via holiday rentals near Silverstone, setting up in Devon, and playing a key role in the growth of Premier Cottages.

Listen in to learn:

·       Property management and guest experience tips

·       How PASC UK helps hosts and managers 

·       What PASC UK is doing in response to the spring budget 

·       Why the UK government needs data

·       What Alistair would say to our political leaders 

Alistair picked Touch Stay as his favourite brand and gave special shout-outs to Robert Kennedy, from SuperControl, and Richard Vaughton, from Yes Consulting.

3:55 Alistair’s story: from software to Silverstone

5:30 Setting up in Devon

7:20 Property management tips 

9:57 How to deliver a great guest experience 

11:38 Biggest lessons learned

13:29 Premier Cottages and setting up PASC UK

16:58 COVID-19 was a game-changer for PASC UK

20:46 PASC UK: support for people with one property or hundreds 

22:15 Reaction to the spring budget 

26:06 It is unclear what the abolition of furnished holiday lettings tax regime means

28:57 A change of government might move the goalposts again 

30:04 The government needs data

33:04 What Alistair would say to politicians

35:30 Is the STR industry stopping first-time buyers from buying property?

37:37 How can we avoid being an easy target for the media and politicians?

39:39 PASC UK’s lobbying efforts

40:56 Favourite brand: Touch Stay 

41:45 Individual shout-outs: Robert Kennedy and Richard Vaughton

43:20 Advice to people worried about the spring budget 

Links:

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the FHL tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

E-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Alistair Handyside: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alistair-handyside-mbe-4170b216/

PASC UK: https://www.pascuk.co.uk/

Premier Cottages: https://www.premiercottages.co.uk/

Higher Wiscombe: https://www.higherwiscombe.com/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

Mentions:

Robert Kennedy: https://supercontrol.co.uk/about-us/meet-the-team

Richard Vaughton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardvaughton/

Touch Stay: https://touchstay.com/?utm_source=HolidayCottageHandbook&utm_medium=email+social&utm_campaign=airbnb

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Tyann Marcink Hammond – Touch Stay’s Queen of Guest Experience – is the special guest on today’s show.

Learn:

• How to deal with guest expectations
• How often you should communicate with guests 
• How great communications can help you get better reviews and more direct bookings 
• How to ask for a great review
• The trends hosts and property managers need to be aware of
• Offering the right upsells for your rental 

Tyann picked Conrad O’Connell and BuildUp Bookings for her favourite brand, and gave Amber Erickson-Hurdle a special individual shout-out.

Special offer!

Use code HCH10 to get 10% off your first annual subscription with Touch Stay (offer valid until 30 June 2024).

3:38 Starting out with family one-upmanship

6:44 In the early days, people sent cheques through the post 

9:06 How to deal with ever-rising guest expectations 

11:41 How a Touch Stay digital guidebook can amaze your guests

13:47 How to sign up for Touch Stay 

17:01 Guests love Touch Stay – and often mention it in reviews

19:44 How often you should communicate and when 

22:56 How communications can help you get better reviews and more direct bookings 

24:50 Asking for a review can help you get top marks every time

25:41 The big trends: experiential and transformative travel

27:47 The upsells you can offer and how Touch Stay can help to market them

29:27 No 1 piece of advice: quality and timely communication 

31:16 Individual shout-out: Amber Erickson Hurdle 

32:06 No 1 lesson learned from being an experienced host: use white linens and towels

32:48 Favourite brand in the STR space: Conrad O’Connell and BuildUp Bookings 

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Tyann Marcink Hammond: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyannmarcink/

Touch Stay: https://touchstay.com/?utm_source=HolidayCottageHandbook&utm_medium=email+social&utm_campaign=airbnb

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the furnished holiday lettings tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

Mentions:

Amber Erickson-Hurdle: https://www.linkedin.com/in/theamberhurdle/

Conrad O’Connell: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conradoconnell/

BuildUp Bookings: https://www.buildupbookings.com/

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Welcome to HCH Bitesize – a new podcast series brought to you by Holiday Cottage Handbook and Hostfully!

This weekly show delves into various topics essential to the short-term rentals industry. Episodes will feature expert guests from across the STR space who will share their insights and practical advice. These industry leaders will help listeners enhance their knowledge and build successful and sustainable property management businesses.

Today’s episode features Frank Bosi, the Senior Director of Business Development at Hostfully. Frank gives us the lowdown on property management software – specifically how it can save you time and money.

2:00 What hosts can expect from HCH Bitesize
3:10 The textbook definition of a PMS
5:49 When is the optimum time to start using a PMS?
7:26 No. 1 reason why people should check out Hostfully: AI-powered unified inbox
9:00 No. 2 reason: multi-channel distribution
10:55 No. 3 reason: automated emails
12:40 No. 4 reason: leverage upselling opportunities 
14:35 No. 5 reason: Hostfully’s amazing digital guidebooks
15:43 Bonus reason: Hostfully is awesome!
17:10 Save time and money with a PMS
18:27 Ongoing education and step-by-step onboarding 
22:18 The simple process for developing a direct booking website

Are you looking to streamline your operations and amaze your guests? Look no further than Hostfully! Try their top-rated property management software and award-winning digital guidebooks today. Join the thousands of satisfied property managers who trust Hostfully to grow their business: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/

Hostfully: https://get.hostfully.com/46p7pafubra1

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/

Frank Bosi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frank-bosi-375a5817/

Contact Frank: frank@hostfully.com

Got a comment or interested in being a guest on the show? Email james@holidaycottagehandbook.com.

Send us a text

Louis Andrews, President and Director, OVO Network France, is the special guest on today’s show – and he has plenty of tips and advice to share with our audience.

Learn:

·       How to keep guests and owners happy.

·       Why it’s important to concentrate on your niche and master it.

·       How to secure more direct bookings.

·       How to achieve great reviews.

·       Key trends in the industry.

·       Who the Leonardo Di Caprio and Brad Pitt of the short-term rentals industry are.

Louis also talks about sustainability, the prospect of regulation, and how to advocate for the STR sector.

He picked Plum Guide and Le Collectionist for his favourite brands, and gave Richard Vaughton and the entire OVO Network team a special shout-out.

3:36 Becoming part of the STR industry at a young age

6:48 The elevator pitch for OVO Network

9:29 Keeping guests and owners happy

13:28 What hosts and property managers can learn from OVO Network

18:13 How to secure more direct bookings

23:16 How to achieve great reviews

26:50 Challenges and opportunities in the STR space: sustainability and regulation

34:18 Talking up the STR industry

35:19 Key trends hosts and property managers need to be aware of

36:56 Favourite brands: Plum Guide and Le Collectionist 

38:34 Individual shout-outs: Richard Vaughton and the OVO Network team

40:10 No. 1 lesson learned from being President and Director of OVO Network France

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Louis Andrews: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louis-jacques-andrews/

OVO Network: https://www.ovonetwork.com/en/home

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the furnished holiday lettings tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

Mentions:

Plum Guide: https://www.plumguide.com/

Le Collectionist: https://www.lecollectionist.com/en

Richard Vaughton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardvaughton/

Simon Lehmann: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simon-lehmann-8375753b/

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Carlos Perez-Lanzac, the Founder of Vitur Summit and Caleta Homes, is the special guest on today's show.

Carlos talks about the upcoming Vitur Summit, which will be held in Malaga, Spain, on 8-9 May. He also discusses his career in the short-term rentals space, including scaling Caleta Homes.

As well as sharing a number of tips for hosts and property managers, Carlos gives special shout-outs to Bob W (favourite brand) and Eduardo Botelho Miranda (individual mention).

4:34 Carlos’s journey in the short-term rentals industry

7:54 Vitur Summit 2024

10:29 The key topics at this year’s summit

15:11 Who should attend the summit

16:08 Legislators need to take a long-term view and be brave

19:33 Gathering data about the STR sector is imperative 

22:24 The story so far in 2024

24:13 Top tips for property managers who want to scale

25:21 Top tips for delivering a great guest experience

26:15 Top tips for people starting out 

29:50 Head to www.vitursummit.com for ticket details and use code HCHVITUR24 for a special discount

30:44 Favourite brand shout-out: Bob W

31:25 Individual shout-out: Eduardo Botelho Miranda, Chairman, European Holiday Home Association

32:48 No. 1 lesson learned: keep fighting, persevere, and stay passionate

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Carlos Perez-Lanzac: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carlosperezlanzac/ 

Vitur Summit: https://www.vitursummit.com/?lang=en

Caleta Homes: https://www.caletahomes.com/en/

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the furnished holiday lettings tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

Download your free e-ticket for Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE: https://rb.gy/y61j8q

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

Touch Stay: https://rb.gy/gumxlu

Sustonica: https://rb.gy/buf9p5

RentalWise: https://tinyurl.com/yx4avcz3

Mentions:

Bob W: https://bobw.co/

Eduardo Botelho Miranda: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eduardobotelhomiranda/

European Holiday Home Association: https://ehha.eu/

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Hostaway Founder and CEO Marcus Rader is the special guest on today’s show, and he has plenty to say about the STR industry, particularly the property management software (PMS) space.

Learn about his journey – from frustrated employee to CEO of one of the biggest tech solutions in the business.

Marcus outlines his key predictions for 2024 and shares a bunch of tips for hosts and property managers, discusses the standardisation of the industry, and talks about ever-increasing guest expectations.

Marcus picked three leading dynamic pricing tools for his favourite brand shout-outs: Beyond, Wheelhouse, and PriceLabs. He also had kind words for Boostly’s Mark Simpson, and Frontdesk’s Jesse DePinto.

4:47 Realising his full potential with Hostaway

9:40 Why should hosts and property managers be using Hostaway?

11:07 Why hosts with a small number of properties should use a PMS

12:56 Why Hostaway will become the market-leading PMS

15:01 Head to www.hostaway.com for further details 

15:42 Where the short-term rentals industry is heading in 2024

17:47 What’s going to happen in the PMS space?

20:23 Top tips for hosts and property managers 

23:19 Key trend: the standardisation of short-term rentals 

25:23 Managing guest expectations (more coffee, more bedsheets, more towels!)

27:46 Favourite brands in the STR industry: Beyond, Wheelhouse, PriceLabs, and Mark Simpson

29:39 Individual shout-out: Jesse DePinto from Frontdesk

30:44 No. 1 piece of advice to people starting out in the STR space: focus on property owners

 Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

HCH website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

E-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Marcus Rader: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marketingmarcus/

Hostaway: https://www.hostaway.com/

Petition to reverse plans to abolish the FHL tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

Download free e-ticket for Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE: https://rb.gy/y61j8q

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Hosthub: www.hosthub.com/hch

Touch Stay: https://rb.gy/gumxlu

Sustonica: https://rb.gy/buf9p5

RentalWise: https://tinyurl.com/yx4avcz3

Mentions:

Beyond: https://shorturl.at/acEH2

Wheelhouse: https://www.usewheelhouse.com/

PriceLabs: www.pricelabs.co

Mark Simpson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrmarksimpson/

Boostly: https://boostly.co.uk/

Jesse DePinto: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessedepinto/

Frontdesk: https://www.stayfrontdesk.com/

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.co

Send us a text

We are learning from the luxury vacation rentals industry during this episode featuring Doron Meyassed, Founder and CEO of Plum Guide.

Learn why Plum Guide is home to one of the most meticulous vetting processes in the industry – which leads to 97% of properties being rejected by the platform.

Doron outlines why Plum Guide is brutally honest about every rental and what every host and property manager can learn from the luxury sector. He also talks about 2024 trends, including the fact guests are much more price conscious this year.

Doron’s favourite brand shout-outs went to Air Peace of Mind and Le Collectionist, while two former Plum Guide employees, Laura Iglesias and Jess Scott, earned his individual mentions.

4:53 The vision and development of Plum Guide 

7:20 Scaling the platform after 99% of enquiries were ‘frustrated searches’ 

8:14 The vetting process, brutally honest descriptions, and quickly removing underperforming rentals 

11:50 How Plum Guide will be utilising AI to vet properties

16:05 Managing guest expectations with honest listings 

19:25 The importance of honest and actionable reviews

20:39 The constant tension of accepting only a small number of properties 

22:29 Knowing your customer is everything 

24:13 The future for Plum Guide

25:23 What hosts can learn from Plum Guide

28:28 Short-term rental trends in 2024

30:31 Favourite brands in the STR space: Air Peace of Mind and Le Collectionist 

31:09 Laura Iglesias and Jess Scott

31:40 Number one learning: think long term 

Links:

James Varley: https://shorturl.at/rstAB

Holiday Cottage Handbook website: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free newsletter: https://shorturl.at/xLMRY

Free e-book: https://shorturl.at/imtW6

Survey: https://shorturl.at/axOV6

Doron Meyassed: https://shorturl.at/aDQ56

Plum Guide: https://rb.gy/dorwv9

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the furnished holiday lettings tax regime: https://rb.gy/u0n35j

Download your free e-ticket for Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE: https://rb.gy/y61j8q

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: https://tinyurl.com/4sr5pecz

Touch Stay: https://rb.gy/gumxlu

Sustonica: https://rb.gy/buf9p5

RentalWise: https://tinyurl.com/yx4avcz3

Mentions:

Air Peace of Mind: https://tinyurl.com/mr2ky5n6

Le Collectionist: https://tinyurl.com/mr3wpsbz

Laura Iglesias: https://tinyurl.com/n48zevs5

Jess Scott: https://tinyurl.com/3ump4z5d

Enjoy the show?

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This week’s episode is a Spring Budget Special featuring Steve Taggert, the Founder and Managing Director of My Getaways.

Steve was in parliament to hear UK Chancellor Jeremy Hunt announce the abolishment of the furnished holiday lettings tax regime, and he spoke to Holiday Cottage Handbook Founder, James Varley, about the potential implications of the proposal.

3:52 Steve’s story in the short-term rentals world

7:51 My Getaways elevator pitch 

8:59 Make sure you get your rates right 

9:57 Advice to those who want to scale

11:48 Guest communication tips

14:28 Great Wi-Fi and photography

15:31 How hosts can be great neighbours

17:11 Working with homeowners 

18:37 Key trends

21:15 The Spring Budget – Steve’s day in parliament 

25:38 Promoting the industry is vital 

28:32 Advice for hosts who want to help the cause

30:27 Why a registration scheme had to happen

32:10 Data is integral in order to create the right legislation 

33:17 Why professionalisation is important 

35:03 Weeding out the cowboys 

37:33 Steve’s lobbying efforts 

38:51 The impact on housing 

40:03 Favourite brand in the STR space: Minut

41:00 Individual shout-outs: Richard Vaughton and Andy Fenner 

42:24 Advice to people worried about the FHL tax regime: Don’t Panic!

Links mentioned:

Petition to reverse government plans to abolish the FHL tax regime: https://petition.parliament.uk/petitions/658866

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (free e-ticket) https://propertyinvestor.smartreg.co.uk/Visitors/Visitors/register?promoid=WEBSITE

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/

Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/

Free e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Survey: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/LC2W7GJ

Steve Taggert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevetaggert/

My Getaways: https://www.mygetaways.co.uk/

SuperControl’s discovery sessions: https://supercontrol.co.uk/property-investor-show

Minut: https://www.minut.com/?utm_campaign=holidaycottagehandbook&utm_source=partners

PASC UK letter to MPs: https://pascuk.eaction.online/FHL/search

Touch Stay: https://touchstay.com/?utm_source=HolidayCottageHandbook&utm_medium=email+social&utm_campaign=airbnb

Sustonica: https://www.sustonica.com/

Richard Vaughton: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardvaughton/

Andy Fenner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyfenner2023/

UK STAA: https://ukstaa.org/

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This week’s special guest is Bob Garner, the Founder and CEO of EnviroRental – a free resource that is helping short-term rental managers make their properties more sustainable.

Bob talks to Holiday Cottage Handbook Founder James Varley about the upcoming SCALE Green event and shares five simple things that every host and property manager can do to make their rentals more sustainable. 

Bob’s favourite brand shout-out went to Touch Stay, while Damian Sheridan from SCALE Rentals was his individual mention.

3:26 Bob’s journey in the short-term rentals world 

4:37 Bob’s Italian adventure  

4:58 How the hosting journey has changed over the years 

6:57 Bob’s focus on sustainability 

9:20 Green VR Events and EnviroRental

12:31 Bob’s top tips: No. 1: Shift to a green energy tariff

14:03 No. 2: Stop buying single use plastics

16:06 No. 3: Try using an accreditation scheme like Sustonica

17:55 No. 4: Invest in biodiversity 

19:12 No. 5: Think about your web profile

21:52 SCALE Green in London on 23 April

24:59 SCALE Green presenters and subjects 

26:48 Tickets are just £40 each. Visit green.scalerentals.show 

27:40 Bob’s favourite brand in the short-term rentals space: Touch Stay

28:18 Bob’s individual shout-out: Damian Sheridan from SCALE

29:00 No. 1 lesson learned since founding EnviroRental: It’s not all about logic! 

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Take our two-minute survey

Bob Garner

EnviroRental

SCALE Green

SuperControl Discovery Sessions at Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE

Sustonica

Touch Stay

Andy McNulty

Damian Sheridan

SCALE

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This week’s special guest is Sally Henry, Vice President of Business Development at Key Data, the global leader in market intelligence in the short-term rentals industry.

Sally talks to HCH Founder, James Varley, about 2024 trends – shining a light on supply, occupancy, and rates. She also discusses Airbnb losing market share to Booking.com in Europe and the UK, how to get your pricing right, and how strict your cancellation policy should be.

Sally’s favourite brand shout-out went to cottages.com, while Simon Law (her fellow ‘radiator’) earned her individual mention.

3:30 Sally’s career in the STR world, which started in the brochure era!

7:35 The growth of the industry has been massive 

9:14 Innovative tech is prevalent in the STR space

10:08 Elevator pitch for Key Data 

11:43 The onboarding process for Key Data customers

13:03 The cost and platform: Key Data website

14:08 What the data is telling us in 2024 so far (more supply, lower occupancy, lower rates)

17:51 Have we hit peak supply?

19:36 Airbnb has lost market share to Booking.com (2% drop in the UK and 4% drop in Europe)

22:03 2% and 4% swings are quite significant 

23:22 Sally’s top tips to navigate 2024

27:11 Price is everything. People are taking more trips but stays are shorter

30:17 Working out the optimal cancellation policy 

33:15 Favourite brand in the STR space: cottages.com

34:40 Individual shout-out: Simon Law

36:39 No. 1 tip to STR hosts and managers in 2024: utilise your data!

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Sally Henry

Key Data 

cottages.com

Simon Law

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This week’s special guest is Howard Reuben, from HCH Financial Services – the new home of holiday let mortgages.

Howard discusses his career as a mortgage broker and financial advisor, founding HCH Financial Services (in collaboration with Holiday Cottage Handbook), and how the growth of short-term rentals has boomed since the pandemic. 

Howard picked the Principality Building Society for his favourite brand shout-out, while Samantha Turmaine took the individual shout-out for her outstanding work in managing HCH Financial Services. 

If you need any type of mortgage or financial product, contact HCH Financial Services:

Call: 0333 1234 536

Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Visit: https://www.hchfs.co.uk/

3:46 Howard’s career as a mortgage broker and financial advisor 

9:20 Why this is the right time to launch HCH Financial Services

12:51 The customer journey – we aim to deliver your long-term goals

15:56 A range of options: holiday let, buy to let, residential mortgages, and much more

17:13 There are lenders who will consider all sorts of circumstances 

19:09 The holiday let market has boomed since the pandemic 

23:38 The state of the market right now 

28:26 Favourite brand shout-out: Principality Building Society 

30:01 Individual shout-out: Samantha Turmaine from HCH Financial Services 

31:39 No. 1 lesson learned: the only constant is change 

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Howard Reuben

HD Consultants 

Principality Building Society

Samantha Turmaine

HCH Mortgage Podcast 

Enjoy the show?

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Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com 

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Beyond is the global revenue management system for the vacation rental industry and prides itself on helping customers increase their annual revenue by a whopping 40%.

During this week’s episode we hear from Beyond CEO Julie Brinkman about her career, the dynamism and innovation of the short-term rentals industry, and future trends we should all be looking out for.

Julie also offers a deep dive into the Beyond platform, outlining why it stands out in the dynamic pricing tool landscape.

Julie’s favourite brand shout-out went to Host & Stay, while her individual shout-out went to Fiona Campbell, CEO, Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers.

3:32 Business, travel, and growth: Julie’s career journey

5:47 The dynamism of the short-term rentals industry

7:16 Where the STR space stands currently

8:19 Where the industry is heading 

10:11 Why hosts and property managers should be using Beyond

11:20 A dynamic pricing tool like Beyond keeps you up-to-date with shifts in demand

12:43 Beyond can help you boost revenue by up to 40%!

13:53 Why Beyond stands out in the dynamic pricing tool landscape 

17:12 The onboarding journey for new Beyond customers 

18:30 It’s easy to set minimum and maximum nightly rates

19:02 The first 5,000 bookings with Beyond are free! 

19:48 Trends in the short-term rentals industry 

20:59 Julie’s top tip: know your market 

21:57 What’s next for Beyond?

23:03 Favourite brand shout-out: Host & Stay, Dale Smith

23:32 Individual shout-out: Fiona Campbell, CEO, Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers

24:03 Number one lesson learned from being CEO of Beyond 

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Julie Brinkman

Beyond

Host & Stay

Dale Smith

Fiona Campbell

Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers 

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This week’s special guest is industry expert Mark Simpson – the direct booking king, Founder of Boostly, and the man Airbnb don’t want you to know about. 

Mark spoke to James Varley about being born into the vacation rentals industry, founding Boostly, his top direct booking tips, marketing tactics, and what he really thinks about Airbnb.

Mark’s favourite brand shout-out went to Mount, while his individual shout-out went to HCH Founder, James Varley.

3:44 Born into the STR industry

15:47 The Boostly elevator pitch: the ultimate direct booking solution

19:05 Why are direct bookings so important?

28:12 Mark’s top three direct booking tips

39:21 What Mark has learned about marketing 

45:27 ‘I love Airbnb’ – but you have to make the OTAs work for you

49:32 The future of Boostly 

50:42 Top tips for hosts and property managers: start with a great bed! 

51:20 Top trends in 2024

55:14 Favourite brand in the STR industry: Mount (shout-out for Madison Rifkin)

56:39 Individual shout-out: James Varley(!)

57:04 Biggest lesson learned: get a great accountant! 

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Mark Simpson

Boostly

Touch Stay

SuperControl

Isaac French 

Mount

Madison Rifkin

James Varley 

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Nicolas Francony, International Business Developer at Swikly, is the special guest on today’s show.

Learn about Swikly’s deposit solution for short-term rentals, including its discreet process for guests and robust claims procedure.

Nicolas named Avantio as his favourite brand in the industry and gave a special shout-out to the Kennedys of SuperControl fame.

The episode includes sponsor mentions for HCH Financial Services, Hosthub, Smiling House Luxury, and Beyond.

3:23 Nicolas’s journey in the short-term rentals industry
4:07 Swikly is built for self-caterers who want to secure a deposit
5:52 The Swikly process to discreetly obtain a deposit
7:09 What happens if the damage costs more than the deposit?
8:59 The limitations of AirCover from Airbnb
11:14 The Swikly claims process
12:43 Reminding hosts to be careful
14:28 How many stays result in a claim?
15:28 The cost of using Swikly
17:40 The growth plans for Swikly
18:38 The average Swikly customer
19:32 Head to www.swikly.com for further details
20:10 Trends to look out for
21:04 Top tips for hosts and property managers
23:54: Favourite brand: Avantio 
24:47: Individual shout-out: The Kennedys of SuperControl

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Free ticket for Your Air Success on 8 November: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book
Property Management Masterclass podcast series: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/property-management-masterclass

Nicolas Francony: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolas-francony-6a48a226/
Swikly: https://www.swikly.com/

Mentions:

Avantio: https://www.avantio.com/
SuperControl: https://www.supercontrol.co.uk/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/ Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.com

Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=HCH

Smiling House Luxury: https://smilinghouse.ch/

Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

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This week’s episode is dedicated to Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE, which will be held in collaboration with the Property Investor Show on 19-20 April at ExCel London. 

Property Tribes Co-Founder Vanessa Warwick – an ambassador for Property Investor Show – is the special guest and she explains why this is a must-attend event in our industry.

Tickets for Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE are FREE! All you need to do is register via the Property Investor Show website.

Hope to see you there! 

3:55 Why the Property Investor Show is a must-attend event in our industry

5:54 The importance of valuable (and free!) property education

7:41 Understanding what’s going on in the short-term rentals space

9:22 Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE exhibitors

9:46 There will be something for everyone – whether you're a new investor or manage hundreds of properties

11:30 Portfolio landlords are shifting towards short-term rentals

14:02 Industry events will help you become a better investor and property manager

16:06 The audience is made up of experienced property investors who are looking to scale

19:26 Property investors are feeling optimistic in 2024

21:17 The event is FREE. There is no excuse not to attend! 

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Vanessa Warwick

Property Tribes

#HCHLIVE exhibitors:

HCH Financial Services

Hosthub

SuperControl

Sykes Holiday Cottages

The Aparthotel Revolution

Your AirHost

Interested in exhibiting? Email: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com

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Send us a text

This week’s special guest is Robert Kennedy, the Co-Founder and Product Director of SuperControl – a long-established property management solution based in the UK.

Robert charts his journey from hosting in Scotland to developing a simple booking channel and eventually creating a PMS which takes £50 worth of bookings every second.

Robert’s favourite brand shout-out went to Premier Cottages, while his individual shout-outs went to Fiona Campbell, from the Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers, and Alistair Handyside, from PASC UK.

3:42 The story of SuperControl

9:11 What makes SuperControl stand out

11:51 The growth of PMS options on the market 

14:15 Will we see consolidation in the PMS space?

15:53 Why hosts should consider SuperControl

17:52 Starting out as a host has been key to the success and growth of SuperControl

19:40 Tips for hosts: pricing, presentation, and partnerships 

21:37 Head to www.supercontrol.co.uk to sign up for a free trial 

23:13 Favourite brand shout-out: Premier Cottages

25:04 Individual shout-outs: Fiona Campbell and Alistair Handyside

27:01 Best advice to a new company 

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

SuperControl

Premier Cottages

Fiona Campbell

Association of Scotland’s Self-Caterers

Alistair Handyside

PASC UK

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This week’s special guest is Philip Pickard, the CEO and Co-Founder of Speedy Wi-Fi. Philip talks to James Varley about how short-term rental hosts and property managers can advertise and leverage high-speed Wi-Fi in order to attract more bookings and boost revenue. 

Philip’s favourite brand shout-out went to Plum Guide, while his individual shout-outs went to Boostly’s Mark Simpson and Airbnb CEO and Co-Founder, Brian Chesky.

3:39 The story of Speedy Wi-Fi

4:29 Helping property managers advertise and leverage high-speed Wi-Fi

5:21 What speed is high-speed Wi-Fi these days?

5:56 Consistently capturing Wi-Fi performance data 

7:33 Guest demand for high-speed Wi-Fi is unquestionable 

7:48 If you have great Wi-Fi, shout it from the rooftops

9:03 Targeting larger property managers 

10:24 Guests are 84% more likely to book a property with verified Wi-Fi data 

11:04 Speedy Wi-Fi pricing and sign-up info

11:56 Philip’s career before founding Speedy Wi-Fi

13:20 Being customer-obsessed is key 

14:39 Favourite brand in the STR space: Plum Guide 

15:18 Individual shout-outs: Mark Simpson from Boostly and Brian Chesky from Airbnb

16:25 Best advice: focus on what your customers want

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Speedy Wi-Fi

philip@getspeedy.io

Philip Pickard

Plum Guide

Mark Simpson 

Boostly

Brian Chesky

Airbnb

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The CEO and Co-Founder of Turno, Assaf Karmon, is the special guest on this week’s #HCHPodcast.

Turno has grown into one of the biggest brands in the short-term rentals space – helping hosts and cleaners to significantly improve and expand their operations.

Assaf spoke about the story of Turno, outlined a bunch of actionable tips for hosts and property managers, and shared his pride at seeing cleaning professionals grow their businesses on the platform.

Turno has teamed up with HCH to provide listeners with a very special offer. You can earn $150 in Amazon vouchers simply by completing your first turnover with a Turno marketplace cleaner by 31 March 2024. Head to turno.com/hch for further details.

4:32 Assaf’s journey from a software engineer to co-founding Turno

7:03 Turno supports hosts and cleaners 

8:01 The growth of cleaning companies dedicated to short-term rentals

8:43 The impact of COVID-19 on cleaners

10:35 The benefits of starting out as a host 

11:17 Advice to hosts: find a good team and delegate

12:54 One trend to be aware of: quality

15:01 Delivering value for hosts and cleaners

17:29 Turno’s plans for 2024

19:04 Growth locations for Turno 

20:37 Favourite brand in the STR space: Airbnb

22:18 Individual shout-out: Tim Rosolio at Vrbo (Expedia Group)

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Assaf Karmon

Turno

Airbnb

Tim Rosolio

Vrbo

Expedia Group

Earn $150 Amazon gift card! Sign up: turno.com/hch

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Short-term rentals expert Richard Vaughton is the special guest on this week’s episode.

A veteran of the industry, Richard has seen and done it all. From managing and building a family business, to launching and scaling tech companies, all the way through to advising some of the biggest brands in the sector.

During the interview, Richard talks growth, scaling, direct bookings, industry trends, AI, and much more. 

His favourite brand shout-out went to OVO Network, while his individual shout-out went to Louis Andrews.

3:37 Richard’s story in the short-term rentals industry

5:00 From a host to an industry player

11:12 Where the STR space is right now and where it’s heading

14:05 Is there room for new companies every week?

16:15 Key trends for hosts and property managers

23:55 How STR hosts can utilise AI

26:01 How important are direct bookings?

29:56 Why should hosts go after direct bookings?

35:12 Favourite brand shout-out: OVO Network (special mentions to Moving Mountains, Jayne's Luxury Rentals, Host & Stay, and My Getaways)

37:16 Individual shout-out: Louis Andrews (OVO Network again!)

38:08 Which do you like best: Airbnb or Booking.com?

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

OVO Network

Moving Mountains

Jayne’s Luxury Rentals

Host & Stay

My Getaways

Louis Andrews 

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Property Hub Co-Founder and best-selling author Rob Dix is the special guest on this week’s show.

Rob discusses his latest book, The Price of Money, outlines the 18-year property cycle, talks about the power of inflation, and makes his market predictions for 2024.

His favourite brand shout-out went to Savills, while his individual shout-out went to Expat Property Story.

4:00 Why Rob wrote The Price of Money

6:09 What everyone needs to know about money 

8:44 Starting out in property

11:09 The growth of Property Hub

13:25 The 18-year property cycle 

16:40 Can you time property investment?

18:23 The importance of taking a long-term approach to property

20:53 The great thing about inflation for property investors

24:04 The influx of investors getting involved in short-term rentals

26:34 Will there be any government support for the private rented sector?

28:57 Should the UK build more houses?

31:18 Rob’s property predictions for 2024

33:16 Rob’s favourite brand shout-out: Savills

33:39 Rob’s individual shout-out: Expat Property Story

34:32: Rob’s advice to a new company in the property industry

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

The Price of Money on Amazon

Property Hub

Akhil Patel

Savills

Expat Property Story

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Kick off 2024 by finding out the five new year resolutions that every short-term rental host and property manager should be making!

Join host James Varley for an in-depth chat with industry guru Simon Lehmann, who shares his insight and knowledge for the benefit of hosts and property managers everywhere.

Simon’s brand shout-out went to Moving Mountains, while his individual shout-out went to Antonio Bortolotti from Vacation Rental World Summit. Tune in to find out why.

4:04 Is a storm still brewing for short-term rentals?

6:04 The operators that are going to thrive 

8:05 Regulation will keep changing 

9:46 Main takeaways from conference season

12:11 Simon’s predictions for 2024

14:15 Supply might continue to increase 

15:03 Resolution No. 1: Prioritise sustainability 

17:00 Resolution No. 2: Financial hygiene

18:55 Resolution No. 3: Pricing strategy

22:44 Resolution No. 4: Enhance the guest experience (remote work is here to stay)

25:55 Resolution No. 5: Market and promote effectively (we are at the mercy of the online travel agencies)

28:53 Favourite brand in the industry: Moving Mountains

29:54 Individual shout-out: Antonio Bortolotti from Vacation Rental World Summit

31:37 Which is your favourite: Airbnb or Booking.com?

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

HCH Financial Services Call: 0333 1234 536 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

AJL Atelier

Moving Mountains

Antonio Bortolotti

Vacation Rental World Summit 

Airbnb

Booking.com

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Join host James Varley for an in-depth chat with Christianne Crump from STR HUB – a new resource which aggregates information about the short-term rentals industry. 

Christianne tells us the story of STR HUB and shares a number of top tips, including for hosts starting out, the importance of understanding the major online travel agencies, and the trends everyone should be looking out for as we head into 2024.

Christianne’s brand shout-out went to the Vacation Rental Management Association (VRMA), while her individual shout-out went to Mark Simpson from Boostly. Tune in to find out why.

3:33 Christianne’s journey in short-term rentals 

5:42 The story of STR HUB

8:34 The vision: Aggregating resources in one place

14:22 Christianne’s top tips for hosts starting out

18:26 STR marketing tips

21:52 The most exciting parts of the STR industry

24:55 The trends hosts and property managers should be looking out for

28:00 Christianne’s favourite brand shout-out: VRMA

29:22 Christianne’s individual shout-out: Mark Simpson at Boostly

31:04 Key learnings from starting a new company in the STR space

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

HCH Financial Services Call: 01206 577266 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk

STR HUB

VRMA

Key Data

Mark Simpson 

Boostly 

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Join host James Varley for an in-depth chat with Will Parry, CEO and Co-Founder of ALTIDO by Joivy. Will talks about his career in the short-term rentals industry, which materialised after stints in finance and selling apple juice. He outlines why ALTIDO is an industry disruptor and gives a whole host of shout-outs to people and businesses in the STR space. Will’s brand shout-out went to Unplugged, while his main individual mention went to Bob Garner from EnviroRental. Tune in to find out why.
 

3:41 Will’s journey in the travel industry, via finance and making apple juice

5:02 The apple juice industry

6:15 The story of ALTIDO, which started with one property on Airbnb

7:49 ALTIDO’s customers

9:44 ALTIDO is active in six countries – and each market is different

12:05 The biggest changes in the last decade

14:09 How ALTIDO has scaled operations

17:24 Getting listed on ALTIDO

20:00 Starting life with a new brand (saying goodbye to ALTIDO in 2024)

21:14 ALTIDO: An industry disruptor

24:07 Advice for hosts who want to scale

27:24 Is there room for all the tech companies in the STR space?

28:30 What are you most excited about in the STR industry?

30:00 The biggest threats to the industry

31:49 Favourite brand in the STR space apart from your own: Unplugged

34:11 Individual shout-out: Bob Garner from EnviroRental

35:48 Advice to companies starting out in STR

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook LIVE (download your free e-ticket)

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

HCH Financial Services Call: 01206 577266 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk 

Altido

Unplugged

Chris Stephenson

Thibault Masson

Nadia Adan

Vanessa de Souza Lage

Bob Garner

EnviroRental

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Join host James Varley for an in-depth chat with Joe Siart, Managing Director at RentalReady.

During the podcast, Joe tells us why RentalReady is one of the most powerful property management solutions on the market, outlines the trends hosts should be looking out for, and offers advice on how to improve the guest experience.  

Joe’s brand shout-out went to Swikly, while he also praised RentalReady customer Matthew Lowe for supercharging his property business in 2023.

3:19 Joe’s career in the travel industry

4:48 All about RentalReady

5:57 Why RentalReady stands out from the crowd

8:11 RentalReady: All the essentials under one roof

9:59 The average customer at RentalReady

13:48 How a PMS can take your business to the next level

16:33 The trends people should be looking out for

18:43 Joe’s best advice to enhance the guest experience 

22:42 It’s ‘early afternoon’ in the short-term rentals space

27:06 What Joe is most excited about in the industry 

28:30 Joe’s favourite brand in the short-term rentals space: Swikly

30:30 Shout-out to Matthew Lowe in Bristol 
 

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

HCH Financial Services Call: 01206 577266 Email: advice@hchfs.co.uk 

RentalReady

GuestReady 

Swikly

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Learn how to scale a short-term rental property management business in London by listening to Stefan Hoffelner, CEO and Co-Founder of Your AirHost.

Stefan shares advice for new property managers, explains how to navigate London’s 90-day rule, and outlines the top amenities for rentals in major cities.

Stefan named Holiday Cottage Handbook, Superhog, Lavanda, and Guesty as his favourite brands, and gave Leo Walton a special shout-out.

He also previewed Your Air Success – an event in London on 8 November which will be co-hosted by Holiday Cottage Handbook and Your AirHost. Click here to register for your free ticket and please note places are limited: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost

3:35 Stefan’s journey in the short-term rentals industry
4:53 Advice for new property managers
6:44 The elevator pitch for Your AirHost
8:03 Navigating the 90-day rule in London
9:50 Top London amenities
12:05 How to acquire properties
13:33 How to keep guests and owners happy
16:01 The advantages of working with a property management company
18:56 How to get great reviews 
23:45 How to achieve direct bookings 
25:28 Where and what to buy in London
29:08 A new event in London: Your Air Success on 8 November
30:27 Favourite brands: Holiday Cottage Handbook, Superhog, Lavanda, and Guesty 
31:30 Individual shout-out: Leo Walton from Superhog
31:54 Lessons learned: get your accounting right and enjoy the ride

Links:

James Varley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jdsvarley/
Holiday Cottage Handbook: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/
Free ticket for STR Zone on 4-5 October: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/str-zone
Free ticket for Your Air Success on 8 November: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/yourairhost
Priority list for new e-book: https://www.holidaycottagehandbook.com/e-book

Stefan Hoffelner: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stefan-hoffelner-6b360955/
Your AirHost: https://www.yourairhost.co.uk/

Mentions:

Superhog: https://www.superhog.com/
Lavanda: https://www.getlavanda.com/
Guesty: https://www.guesty.com/

Sponsor links:

HCH Financial Services: https://www.hchfs.com/
Hosthub: https://www.hosthub.com/?utm_source=affiliate&utm_medium=banner&utm_campaign=HCH
RentalWise: https://www.rentalwise.com/
Beyond: https://www.beyondpricing.com/products/why-beyond?utm_medium=seo&utm_source=partner-2024&utm_campaign=holiday_cottage_handbook_2024

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Join host James Varley for an in-depth chat with short-term rentals industry expert, Moriya Rockman, the Co-Founder of Smiling House, Triangle Luxury, and Villa Tracker.

Moriya discusses her journey in the short-term rentals space, shares key knowledge from her career, and outlines what everyone can learn from the luxury sector.

If you have any interest in vacation rentals, this episode is not to be missed. Moriya is a highly regarded thought leader and the knowledge she shares here is second-to-none.

3:18 Moriya’s journey in the short-term rentals industry

5:32 Luxury vacation rentals are thriving

5:48 Key learnings from the industry 

7:15 Be an ambassador for your destination

9:55 What everyone can learn from the luxury sector

12:56 Invite your guests to be part of the community  

14:37 Work with other hosts 

15:50 Trends that Moriya is embracing 

17:45 What Moriya is most excited about in the short-term rentals industry

19:03 Travel professionals are starting to offer vacation rentals rather than hotels

21:34 Airbnb changed the industry – and property managers who are wavering need to hold on

24:46 We need to keep the personal touch and use tech in the right way 

27:36 Favourite brand in the STR space: Guesty / shout-out to Jodie Stirling

29:33 Best advice to a new company: work on your brand, find your identity, and get a property management system from day one

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Smiling House

Triangle Luxury

Villa Tracker

Guesty

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Join host James Varley for an in-depth chat with social media and marketing expert Katie Bessant, who runs The Holiday Hive.

Katie is an experienced short-term rentals host and professional who helps property managers to promote their rentals on social media. 

During the pod, Katie shares her top five tips for marketing short-term rentals.

3:12 Katie’s lifelong journey in short-term rentals

6:20 The Holiday Hive

7:38 Tip 1: Photography is key

10:52 Tip 2: Set up a direct booking website

13:33 Tip 3: Utilise social media 

14:26 Tip 4: Email marketing 

15:42 Instagram and Facebook can be powerful platforms

16:17 Have a consistent social media game

17:13 Try repeating quality content 

18:05 One platform can be enough 

18:43 Tip 5: Focus on the guest experience

20:30 The personal touch is important 

21:38 Top tips for hosts starting out  

22:54 The situation in Devon 

24:10 Follow @theholidayhive on Instagram

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Book a one-to-one consultation

The Holiday Hive on Instagram

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Join host James Varley for an in-depth chat with Amanda Stecker, who runs Holiday Letology and Unique Cotswold Cottages.

Amanda offers one-to-one coaching for short-term rental hosts who are keen to improve and scale their operations.

During the pod, she offers a variety of tips for hosts and property managers, including the importance of photography, pricing, and how to get the most out of Airbnb.

3:19 Amanda’s journey in short-term rentals

4:35 The biggest mistake Amanda made (an expensive booking agent)

6:41 Supporting hosts and managers through Holiday Letology

8:47 Top tips for hosts starting out 

10:46 Tips for people who manage remotely 

13:09 Driving year-round stays

16:45 Excellent communication is essential

18:55 Sustainability measures

20:17 2023 so far – and future proofing for 2024 and beyond

23:05 How important are direct bookings?

26:11 Should you use a dynamic pricing tool?

27:20 Tips to achieve more bookings during quieter times of year

32:16 Free resources from Holiday Letology: www.holidayletology.com

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Book a one-to-one consultation

Holiday Letology

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Join host James Varley for a chat with Noelia Novella, CEO of housekeeping operations specialists Doinn. Noelia talks about the importance of cleaning and automation for short-term rentals, and outlines how Doinn is helping property managers and cleaning companies to scale their operations.

Sponsor: Hosthub: www.hosthub.com

(3:11) Noelia’s journey starts with a round-the-world trip

(5:00) Doinn’s business model – helping property managers and cleaning companies to scale  

(8:24) Why hosts should consider engaging with Doinn

(12:09) Guests expect a super-clean rental

(16:50) Prioritising sustainability 

(18:35) The advice Noelia would give herself in 2015

(19:29) What’s next for Doinn: new SAAS (software as a service)

(22:04) More professionalisation is coming

(23:26) Head to doinn.co for more information

Links mentioned:

Holiday Cottage Handbook website 

Sign up for our free weekly newsletter 

Download our free e-book for investors, hosts, and property managers

Book a one-to-one consultation

Doinn 

Enjoy the show?

Please subscribe, rate, and review! 

Email the show: james@holidaycottagehandbook.com