Explore every episode of the podcast Serviced Accommodation Secrets Podcast

Welcome to Serviced Accommodation Secrets the Podcast for all things Serviced Accommodation.  Brought to you by a real SA operator who has been there and done it.  Made the mistakes and still learning.

This episode we talk about how to furnish your property.

Lease.

Buy Secondhand furniture.

Buy top-of-the-range furniture.

The choice is yours.

If you would like to learn more about our mentorships please email linda@heronsrestsa.co.uk

We would love you to join our facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicedaccommodationsecrets

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This podcast is about how to find properties.

There are different ways that you can approach this.

Speak to estate agents and look on online estate agent portals such as Rightmove and Zoopla.

Do letter drops to local properties?  It may not always be a landlord, but you never know who might see your letter.  Talk about the benefits you can bring to the landlord, and make sure you include your contact details.

It's crucial to be honest with estate agents about your intentions and ensure that the properties you either buy or rent are suitable for serviced accommodation. This not only builds trust but also sets a standard for ethical business practices in the property investment sector.

You must check mortgages and leases to ensure both allow serviced accommodation.

If you would like to find out more about serviced accommodation please join our facebook group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicedaccommodationsecrets

If you would like to contact me please email: linda@theprofitnavigator.co.uk

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This episode offers some important tips about the type of company you should set up for your accommodation business.

We talk about sole trader, LLP, Limited companies.

Each company structure has it's own merits, each person will want a different type of structure.

We talk about the importance of bookkeeping, speaking to an accountant, keeping an eye on your VAT turnover and your tax liabilties.

We would love you to join our facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicedaccommodationsecrets

If you would like to know more then drop me an email: linda@theprofitnavigator.co.uk

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Subletting

After reading a post on Facebook from someone that I believe sells courses on Serviced Accommodation I wanted to clear something up.

When you find a property that you want to rent for the purposes of using it for Serviced Accommodation you need to make sure that the lease allows it.  The post on Facebook said that you should state in the lease that you are subletting the property.

Subletting is not what we do.  The lease should state that the property can be used for Serviced Accommodation.

Join our Facebook group for more hints and tips. https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicedaccommodationsecrets

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Taking everything back to basics.

What is serviced accommodation?

Is it passive income?

The pitfalls of serviced accommodation.

Automation in serviced accommodation.

Join our facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/servicedaccommodationsecrets

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Announcement that I am relaunching the Serviced Accommodation Secrets Podcast.

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I'm very excited to announce that Linda O'Rourke, the operator of Herons Rest Serviced Properties, will be taking over the reins of my Serviced Accommodation Secrets Podcast, so that our community will still be served and supported.

Here, you will enjoy my interview with Linda, who is such a valuable and knowledgeable member of our SA community, and she shares many insights and how she got started in this business. 

Linda is also taking over the Serviced Accommodation Secrets Facebook group & page and the brilliant community in the WhatsApp group.

Linda’s short-term rental properties are located in Staines, near Heathrow, and she is also very experienced in bookkeeping for serviced accommodation, and has great knowledge on accounting and VAT, as well as several years in the short-term rental business.

I'm so happy that Linda is taking over this role, so that you'll enjoy the benefit of her expertise and help, plus I'm sure you'll all continue to support each other too.

Massive congratulations to you, Linda, you're an amazing woman and coming from a place of service as you do, you'll give fantastic support to everyone, I know.

And my deepest thanks to you all out there for supporting me throughout the 5 years of the podcast and I know you'll gain so much with Linda, moving forward.

Visit the Facebook group:

https://www.facebook.com/groups/2113059038913629

And the Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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5 months on from the launch of Hospitable Hosts the No. 1 bestselling book full of gems of wisdom and stories from 40 hosts across the world, we welcome Paul Anderson once again.

You can hear how Paul has developed his business in that time, taking on staff and changing up his priorities.

Paul also has time for interests and a life outside hospitality which you’ll perhaps have thought might be a challenge!!!

He shares advice that is not in the book, tips on running your hospitality business that are as true today as they always were, plus valuable myth-busting on the demands of being a host.

As well as being the host of Sandfield Guesthouse in Oxford, Paul is The Social Media Hotelier, Instagram expert for the hospitality industry!

Get in touch with Paul for his inspirational help with your Instagram marketing @thesocialmediahotelier - you can book a consultation with him.

Thanks so much to Paul for joining us for this episode!

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Mark Simpson has spent his whole life in hospitality, now a renowned author, award-winning mentor, and proud Boostly founder, he helps short terms rental hosts of all kinds globally to get more direct bookings, instead of relying on the Online Travel Agencies (OTAs).

Mark launched The Book Direct Playbook in February 2022, and he’s poured all his experience, learnings, insights, (and the odd soccer reference), to help property owners around the world finally regain control and turn their business into the champion of direct bookings.

It’s an incredible resource and Mark gave a totally inspiring talk at the Short-Term Rental (STR) Wealth Conference in Nashville (June 2022) about this key point – many STR hosts lost their businesses in the pandemic due to over reliance on the OTAS!

Get your copy here:
https://amzn.to/3MKlBHW

On the 20th June 2022, Mark is running a free piece of training showing you as hosts how to use your contacts and social networks to generate direct bookings.

Go to http://boostly.co.uk/june2022 to register

His goal from this training is for you as hosts to bring in $1million in direct bookings in 1 week as a community as a whole.

Mark is also co-author of Hospital Hosts, an inspirational new book where the visionary for the project, Jodie Stirling has assembled a stellar collection of the biggest names and icons of the short-term rental industry, and Mark shares his story here too.

Along with 40 hosts from around the globe, their entertaining and heart-warming stories, valuable tips, education and inspiration are all shared in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Mark here:

www.linktr.ee/boostlyuk

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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Tracey Northcott is a serial entrepreneur and multi-preneur based in Japan, and has 10 years’ experience as a short term rental host - as you might imagine, Tracey has superpowers to share when it comes to attracting guests and getting bookings! 

Here Tracey shares the fascinating story of how she got started, the dramatic highs and lows of hosting Tokyo Family Stays, which she grew to a seven-figure business.

Through her business, Tracey Northcott Consulting, she inspires and coaches current and aspiring hosts helping them discover the true potential of their STR business. Her secret weapon is “The Wholehearted Host” method for maximising profits and getting booked in a competitive market without discounting. Tracey also shares her valuable knowledge of hosting and scaling your business through her blog.

Tracey is an international bestselling co-author of “Hospitable Hosts,” a collaboration of 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what it means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Tracey here:
www.linktr.ee/traceynorthcottconsulting

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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Introducing the visionary behind an incredible new book Hospitable Hosts, Jodie Stirling, of Stirling Stays, beautiful short term rental cottages in the Cotswolds, and two of the amazing collection of co-authors & professional short term rental hosts in this project - Julie George - the Million Dollar Host and Lead Coach  of the Legends X STR Accelerator Program from Australia, and Liam Carolan an independent STR trainer and Head Coach with Boostly Academy, and host at Ginger & Gold, with properties in Norfolk.

Here you’ll find out from Jodie how the idea started in the first place, and how Julie and Liam became involved in this exciting collaboration early doors. Julie and Liam share their experience and contribution to this amazing industry.  All three of our great guests share what being a Hospitable Host means to them.

Jodie has assembled a stellar collection of the biggest names and many icons of the short-term rental industry, all sharing what motivated them to build their business and gain financial freedom - their stories will inspire you to do the same.

Are you a host, or dream of becoming one, this book will help you enormously as an awesome resource? We’ll be putting a copy in each of our properties ourselves too, for our guests to enjoy!

Get your copy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Jodie, Julie and Liam here:
Jodie: www.linktr.ee/JodieStirling
Julie : www.linktr.ee/milliondollarhost
Liam: www.flow.page/liamcarolan

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Enjoy hearing from Sasha Herman, serviced accommodation expert and director of Jesswood Properties in Luton, and Plaxy Budzinska, mentor and founder of Ravens House Assets, with short term rentals located in Bishop’s Stortford, close to Stansted Airport.

Sasha is also a TV presenter, property & travel Expert and luxury brand ambassador - but how did she get involved in the word of serviced accommodation?  Sasha shares a fascinating snippet of her story here, the full account being in Hospitable Hosts!

Plaxy talks about how she got into short term rentals, with her experience travelling around the world.  Now she’s grateful to have turned her passions for hosting, entertaining, cooking, travelling, refurbishing and renovating properties into a successful business - in fact her short-term rental business changed her life.

You’ll be inspired to hear more, as well as gaining advice on getting started and running your business.

Hospitable Hosts is co-authored by 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what it means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Sasha and Plaxy here:
www.flowcode.com/page/sashaherman
www.linktr.ee/PlaxyBudzinska

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Meet Pam Holt, who started as a host in Chicago, USA almost by accident when she went off travelling with her family, and never looked back!  Hear how she has been able to visit so many different countries since she began hosting, so it was the start of a great adventure.

Pam is now helping new hosts to see how they can create a significant income stream while being part of a community, learning the pitfalls to avoid and supported through the experience, and has may brilliant ideas to share here and in the Hospitable Hosts book.

Hospitable Hosts is co-authored by 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what it means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Pam, at the Happy Host Academy here:
www.linktr.ee/TheHappyHostAcademy

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Meet Paul Anderson, the Social Media Hotelier, and host of the award-winning The Sandfield Guest House in Oxford.  Here you’ll hear more about how Paul has been welcoming visitors into his guesthouse since 2009 and how his unique knowledge and desire to pay it forward makes him the best host in the area.

You will be able to learn how Paul discovered his Instagram skills enable other short term rental hosts make the most of their social media marketing.  He started his The Social Media Hotelier coaching business to help hosts learn to use Instagram in a way that is structured, strategic and works!  The way he teaches is very engaging and brilliant fun too! Paul is also the Instagram expert at Mark Simpson’s Boostly Academy.

Hospitable Hosts is co-authored by 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what it means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Paul, The Social Media Hotelier here:
www.direct.me/TheSocialMediaHotelier

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Episode 115 - Serviced Accommodation Secrets - Toby Doré Interview - Hospitable Hosts

Meet Dr. Toby Doré, owner and founder of Cajun Stays his Airbnb business and began his hosting journey in 2016. You can hear how he was working as a full-time University Professor by day and managing two music venues by night - inspired a six-week cross-country round trip road trip from Louisiana to Canada his hosting career began.

Toby writes “The Cajun Traveler” travel blog and Cajun Stays boasts just under 5,000 reviews on Airbnb and currently manages 21 units in downtown Lafayette, Louisiana USA, the heart of “Cajun Country’ and once deemed the happiest city in America.

You’ll hear more about Toby’s story and the crazy experiences he’s had in our fun interview!

Get in touch with Toby here:
www.linktr.ee/CajunStays

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Meet Sean McGregor, host of Stay Work and Play, and as you may imagine, his short term rentals are perfect for digital nomads who embrace the opportunity to work from anywhere!

Hear how Sean got started and the amazing guarantee that they give the property owners whose properties are fully managed so they are hands free and reap all the rewards of being in the safe hands of Sean and his team.

You’ll gain so much from hearing about Sean’s tips and experiences!

Hospitable Hosts is co-authored by 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what it means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Sean, at “Stay Work and Play” here:
www.stayworkandplay.com/links

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Sergio Castaneda is the founder and Superhost of his amazing Jungle House Luxury short-term rental management and consulting company in Columbus, Ohio, USA.  He is an Airbnb Ambassador, helping new hosts set up their listings and as well as consulting to support new and existing hosts in the short-term rental industry.

You’ll hear how Sergio changed his life completely, to be able to travel and become financially independent through this wonderful world of hosting and providing beautiful places for his guests to stay.

Sergio shares his unique take on creating amazing spaces for his guests to stay and how he came to set up his stunning properties in this way.  He shares his heart-warming story, valuable tips, and so much inspiration!

Hospitable Hosts is co-authored by 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what t means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Sergio here:
www.linktr.ee/junglehouseairbnb

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Here you’ll hear how Jim has been hosting houses on Airbnb since June of 2017, managing properties that he owns as well as houses for Investors and Vacation Rental Owners in San Antonio Texas, and Charlotte, North Carolina in USA.

His homes are in wonderful locations, with so much for guests to do and time to cherish on their stays there.

Jim learned from a young age what a privilege it was to serve others, and how making others happy, made him happy.

But how did he come to be doing this in the wonderful locations of San Antonio and Charlotte, and how has it changed his life?  Jim is a charismatic character and shares how he helps investors, is very much part of his community and helps other STR hosts.

Hospitable Hosts is co-authored by 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what it means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Jim at Vacations Unveiled, here:
www.linktr.ee/UnveiledVacationRentals

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Andrew Hanson shares is incredible story of how he came from nothing to become a performance-driven, multi-faceted, strategic real estate agent and created a successful short term rental business “Pond Life Vacation Rentals” with beautiful homes and many water sports and activities available for guests in New England, USA, as well as running his CityScapes Property Management business.

You’ll hear about his wish is to help inspire readers of the book that no matter what your background is that you can rise to the top and create financial freedom for your family!

Hospitable Hosts is co-authored by 40 professional hosts from around the globe, a collection of industry megastars like no other!!  All share essential tips, education and what it means to be a hospitable host in this amazing book, which is available to buy now:

https://amzn.to/3Mlfr1U - in Kindle edition, paperback or hardback.

You can get in touch with Andrew here:
www.linktr.ee/AndrewHanson

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In the UK the recent Budget had several measures that will help us in the SA sector, and combining this with our Roadmap out of COVID-19 lock down, there’ll be an increase in guests wishing to stay and for numerous reasons… here’s a summary of my thoughts and practical aspects of these two major events announced by the UK Government. 

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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During lock down, if you have your SA units open for business like we do, it’s vital to find out the reason that guests plan to stay at your property and keep within the current laws.

This might seem like a challenge, but in fact there are great opportunities here to help people and thus gain new clients, which is what’s happened with us this week.

And as a second part to this podcast, if you worry that you might struggle to keep running your business if anything happened to you or your loved ones, heaven forbid, then here I share tips on this and how to remain true to what’s important in your life.

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How are you getting on with your new 2021 goals?  Here are specific ways to keep on track and manage both your key actions this year as well as your mindset.

And to share how this still works even if you’re going through a difficult time – unfortunately we’ve had the most traumatic week because a serious car accident has left my eldest grown up child Skye (still your kids even when they’re 21 years old aren’t they?!) with a fractured pelvis and a long recovery expected after surgery this past week.

Obviously, this is distressing and more important than anything else in my life right now, family comes first.  Miraculous that Skye is still with us, and we’re so grateful for this. 

However, because we have systems in place, our SA units are still fully operational, and expansion plans still in place.  This is not to boast, but to share this with you – if you’re struggling or want a better way forwards too, this will help you.

Yes, I’m delayed getting this podcast out, but our actual business and goals are still all fully working and in place.  The methods I share are going to help you through lock down and through life to keep moving towards your vision and what is most meaningful to you.

Our deepest gratitude to everyone for all the support we have had, and the amazing NHS for their awesome skill and support too.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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I hope you’re weathering the storm of second lock down and the tier system in the UK, and anywhere in the world!

If you’ve felt frustrated by the limitations government restrictions have placed on your SA business, know that you are not alone, and now is the time for you to step up and take positive action.  Make the difference to your SA business by helping your guests, your community and your wider audience of potential guests – create and evoke their experience staying with you.  Realise that you can help people this year, next year and into the future.  You can be empowered.  Go for it!!

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Sometimes managing your bookings can be a challenge.  You either have none, or lots come along at once.

Here are some tips on things to do, and what not to do.

With increasing financial pressure caused by the impact of COVID-19, there can be increased pressure to bend your rules or not follow your policies in order to secure bookings.

Here I share a few tips to help you through this rocky period in our history.

For the list of books and podcasts that Chris listens to regularly, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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It was my absolute good fortune and privilege to interview one of the leading speakers in the Short Stay Rental sector, Chris Maughan recently, which is full of practical knowledge and insights that you can apply to your SA business right away!

You may know of Chris as CEO of I-PRAC, which is key to building trust with your potential guests, but did you know he has 20 years’ experience in the industry as CEO and co-founder of AES Accommodation Ltd and AES Events Group?

Providing events for commercial clients such as Twitter, Google, Spotify and Disney including beautiful places to stay along the French Riviera, has meant that Chris and his wife, also his business partner, have been through their share of challenges.

The way that Chris has managed not just his business, but also his mindset, is incredibly inspiring and thought-provoking.

You can benefit from his reading and podcast lists, which he has generously given to me, especially in the face of the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Chris shares how, despite harsh life lessons, you can find ways to overcome traumas to become fulfilled.  A treat for us all.

For the list of books and podcasts that Chris listens to regularly, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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Lots of SA operators have asked for more guidance on how to outsource, and where to find a VA or more varied types of contract workers to complete the many tasks that you want to delegate to someone else.

These may be either things you don’t like doing, don’t have time for, or simply to manage the overwhelming amount of daily tasks that have kept you in a new ‘job’, something you were trying to avoid when you started your SA business!  Here are 3 key tips about how to successfully outsource these different types of work.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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You can enjoy the great mutual benefits of working directly with developers of apartment blocks.  In our rent to SA business the developers retained the freehold of their blocks, and this creates numerous advantages on all sides.  Here I talk about how finances, logistics and guests all receive the positive impact when you work with developers, and how you find them in the first place.

It’s a real win:win!

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Are you feeling overwhelmed in your SA business?  Do you spend your whole day busy with tasks, but at the end of each week you realise you have key actions still undone?

You’ve heard lots of people talk about how hiring a VA is the answer!! “Outsource everything,” they say… and you think it could help, but how on earth do you start this and how much will it cost?  I’ve devised a plan to help – find out more here.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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We will know more after the  announcements on Thursday 5th November,  but here are “Lock down actions” that you can start with now till we know for sure what we’re allowed to do till 2nd December.

There are many opportunities for us to help a lot of people in lock down and to serve our clients - focus on what you can control and stay positive!!

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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In your SA business, are you working out how to serve your community, talk to businesses working on developments in your area and at sites for short term projects.  Are you getting to know the people who are potential guests in your area?

Local networking is of course online and it’s easier than ever to get to know contacts who will want to book and know other people who want to book short term accommodation too – especially as lock down tiers come into force and key workers and contractors as a target market reduce the risk for your business.  More thoughts on what you can do to successfully generate bookings.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Have you outsourced the running of your SA unit(s) to a management company?  If you have this should free up your time and keep your SA business and investment generating a profit for you while you do other things.  However, I’ve had many questions from R2SA business & property owners alike about what they do when the grey areas in the arrangement start causing issues.  Similarly, if you manage SA units for owners or R2SA operators, what exact level of service are you including?

This will help you get it right from the start!

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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This awesome business woman from the world of SA, Moneesha Imrit Ludhor is the founder of KVM Serviced Accommodation Ltd and is the perfect guest to celebrate our 100th Podcast episode!!!

Moneesha operates a successful R2SA business in Peterborough, plus runs the guest house she converted to SA last year with her team including three VAs.

She is a shining example of a woman who replaced her substantial income from her high pressure corporate job, enabling her to spend precious time with her husband and young family, including her son who was born this summer.

Moneesha gives many insights into how she became successful in SA and how you can do the same, following her key learnings  and experience.

Massive thanks to this inspirational soul for joining me on this extra special episode!!

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

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As lock down continues in the UK, with our public health emergency caused by COVID 19, the ‘new normal’ now includes ‘NHS Test & Trace’ which is part the range of measures to track where COVID 19 has spread and enable us all as individuals to do the right thing to self-isolate if we’ve had contact with someone who has symptoms or a full case of the virus.

Here are details about the individual QR code we must display specific to our property, and info on the requirements to maintain records of guests staying in our properties, any other visitors, our housekeeping teams and maintenance people.  This must all be in accordance with GDPR too.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Lots of SA operators in the community have been asking for help with revenue and basically becoming profitable, as things can be a struggle in lockdown.

Here are 11 points to guide you through steps to take - it can just take a few small adjustments to change this to start making money now instead.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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I was lucky to be presenting all about SA Business Systems at the online The Property Ladder with KMO Support monthly meeting.  Thanks so much to Kudirat Mojisola Olowosale for the privilege to share what we do and the benefits of SA systems.

With SA being hospitality as well as property, it’s really key to use systems to give your guests the best experience when they stay, while still remaining personal.

There were several questions I didn’t have time to answer in the end, so I thought it would help to answer these now.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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Kevin, known as The Property Soldier, runs successful serviced accommodation and property businesses with his partner Caroline Benson and he also enjoys sharing his knowledge as lead SA trainer at Progressive.

In this interview we hear how Kevin got into SA in the first place and his future goals, plus many gems of wisdom.

Kevin’s recent Amazon bestselling book Serviced Accommodation Success, is bursting with foundational knowledge about SA and features numerous achievements by new SA operators who've trained with him.

You can hear his valuable knowledge and thoughts on the opportunities out there now for those of us in SA.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Episode 95 - Serviced Accommodation Secrets – Getting AA COVID-19 confident accreditation

We received our AA COVID-19 confident accreditation for our SA units this week, which is something that all SA operators can still apply for if you haven't already.

Here I go through what you need to do to receive this, plus thinking about communications with any overseas guests who’ve booked and need to self-isolate and how to prepare for their stay.

It’s not just to tick a box, it’s to ensure your SA unit is up to standard every time a guest is due to arrive, that you document what you do, and the property is sanitised.

We may have fallen into a sense of the ‘new normal’ being a bit more relaxed but it’s crucial that we continue to follow these strict steps to ensure your guests and your team are protected and as safe as possible.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

This is to help you manage the peaks and troughs in your SA business - we’ve gone into a really busy phase this week, and persistence is paying off, but these times have been challenging!

Some operators I know are really busy with weekend guests but we have a mix of bookings - contractors and now overseas guests who are working here but need to self-isolate, so we have some solid stays :)

If you’ve got patchy bookings and the indecision of lock down is affecting your business, just keep going doing all the right things and you’ll come through successfully.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We’ve been working on a guest survey to find out what our guests really want, and what they’d love us to do more of and anything we could stop doing that would improve their experience staying at our serviced apartments.

This will be awesome to enable our guests to come back and have an even happier stay next time they book.

Along with other recent events, it made me think that a valuable exercise in our own lives could make all the difference too.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With rent to SA, we have the chance to create brilliant, rewarding win:win relationships with our property owners whether you have SA houses or apartments in a block, or another niche type of SA unit!

We provide a valuable service to our guests which has been shown to weather the battering of lock down, particularly well, with the diverse needs of travellers and key workers.

With our economic climate uncertain, it is likely that we’ll have more landlords, freeholders and property owners who will benefit from our type of property management, so it’s a good idea to make plans to how you can do this too.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What lifestyle do you want to live, and what legacy do you want to build?  If you’re constantly involved in the daily operations of your business, then you won’t be making decisions about this, you won’t have the time or the choice!!

Here’s how systems can help you see what tasks are being done in your business and how to delegate effectively.  That way you have a systemised operation, time to really choose how to live your life, yet personal customer service to keep your guests happy and secure in the knowledge that you’re looking after them.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

With all that’s been going on with lock down, and changes to rules, easing then tightening again, this is an especially important time to build trust with our potential guests, especially at this time, They may find OTAs reassuring, but direct bookings are brilliant for us as operators and for our guests alike.

There is a lot we can do to assure our guests that they are safe in our hands, for example, we’ve just been approved by I-PRAC, which is an international verification program that gives guests extra peace of mind when they book.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Many of us have been in survival mode for such a time now during lock down, now is the time to take the path of least resistance so that we thrive instead.  If you tap into support systems that you most likely already have, you’ll feel more energised, vibrant and successful – here’s how.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I was privileged to attend a webinar recently, hosted by Na'ím Anís Paymán and Emilio of Zeevou, and listened to the fabulous panellists who spoke from the heart about race relations in our industry.

Here I share aspects of the discussion and their help for us to make good and positive changes to benefit the human race in the incremental ways we all can.

In your business it's so important to share your values and show empathy, kindness and compassion so that we become a united community, supporting and understanding issues and the discrimination faced by black, indigenous and people of colour, whether indirect or direct.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We have been in lock down for the whole of the 2nd Quarter of 2020, so it's time to take stock and review your income and expenses per Serviced Accommodation unit!

It’s important to keep track of your revenue and specific costs per property, and review monthly so you can stay on top of your revenue management and know how your SA units are performing.  So here we go through how to do this and regroup successfully from this point forward.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Are you ready for your guests, can they be confident in your SA unit?  If you don’t have your COVID-19 measures in place yet, here is detailed help on how to re-assess your current COVID 19 measures and enhanced cleaning procedures.

You need to carry out an appropriate COVID-19 risk assessment, at a business and onsite level, and train your housekeeping team.  It’s straightforward and will keep your guests and team safe.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Preparations for 4th July re-opening in the UK - Cleaning Compliance

It's exciting that we will be able to welcome all guests from Saturday 4th July!!
As lock down eases, it super important to make sure we still have robust cleaning processes and an enhanced regime in place, even if you've been open for keyworkers, to ensure our guests are confident in their serviced apartment.
This is about how to help your guests with self check-in too, the PPE you need and doing a risk assessment of your SA units - your current COVID 19 cleaning checklists and training, so you are also looking after your housekeeping team as well as your guests.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We had a weird thing happen with a potential guest getting in touch and it got me thinking about how we all need to stay vigilant to make sure our guests are meant to be staying with us.

This is the time to follow your processes and do due diligence on guests and bookings - most people are lovely but sometimes there are those who are may plan to misbehave in various ways, so take preventative measures.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

We, in the hospitality business, have a few more weeks till we can open fully to all guests, but from today non-essential retail shops can open and so we are heading towards SA, hotels, pubs, restaurants and attractions opening in early July.

Exciting times for anyone who has been closed, and if like us you’ve been open, this will help you to prepare for the shift in the market and opportunities that are opening up for us.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

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With lockdown easing but rules still in place for the SA sector and our guests, as well as the threat and difficulties of COVID-19 itself, sometimes our guests are very stressed or have concerns, and we are there to help them and make sure they are doing well.  Placing ourselves in their shoes, being kind, showing courage and compassion in these challenging times across the globe is so important just now, and will help no end.

Having a personalised touch but also systems in place to enable us to deliver our service and communicate consistently, will create a firm base on which we can all build amazing customer care and guest support in our SA businesses moving forward.

For show notes and resources in my podcast, go to my website www.servicedaccommodationsecrets.com and Facebook page: http://bit.ly/SASecretsPage

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.