Advice for Owners: A Dickins Guide to Letting
Holiday and short term letting has never been more popular, particularly with the rise of ‘do it yourself’ websites such as Airbnb…but where do you start?
Finding the right agency for you is the first step. Agencies, such as ourselves, offer extra security and advice which are both invaluable when renting a property. We pride ourselves on having a personal relationship with all our owners and the properties we look after. This gives our owners peace of mind and means that we can match the right guests with the right property.
We’ve put together an advice guide to help you get started. Covering all the frequently asked questions, this guide answers some of the questions we get from people either looking to buy to let or people who are currently letting properties but would like to go the extra mile.
Buying a property to let
Buying a property to let can be daunting so, what should you be looking for?
Princes Street Gardens
Where should I buy a property?
We are lucky that Edinburgh has some beautiful areas, however, when buying a property to let, it’s important that you keep in mind what guests are looking for in a self-catering rental apartment. Although some areas might be lovely to live in, these areas might not necessarily be suitable for letting. We suggest that owners stick to the city centre. Both corporate and holiday renters like to be as close to local amenities and attractions as possible.
We specialise is properties within a 20-25 minute walk of Princes Street. This includes areas such as Central New Town, Stockbridge, Inverleith, East New Town, West End/Dean, Old Town, Haymarket, Fountainbridge, Lauriston/Bruntsfield, Marchmont, Southside/Pleasance and Morningside.
To find out more about these areas, please visit our area guides.
What type of property should I buy?
Modern vs. Traditional? The choice is yours. All of our guests have different tastes and are looking for different qualities in a flat. If a flat is in the right area and furnished thoughtfully, it will attract guests.
In our experience, the most popular rental flats to let are our one or two bedroom apartments. They appeal to a wide range of people including individuals, couples and companies looking for apartments for staff.
How should the property be furnished?
We advise that furnishings should always be simple, but stylish. We recommend that palettes should remain neutral with a focus on the details that make a home welcoming and memorable.
The furnishings themselves should be hard wearing rather than flat pack.
Preparing Your Property
Making sure your flat is prepared for letting can be overwhelming, but don’t worry, we are here to help. Whenever we take on a new property, we provide owners with a useful equipment guide and checklist.
Appeal to guests travelling with tots
If your apartment is a bit more spacious, it is worth considering getting a travel cot and high chair for guests travelling with little ones. A couple on their own with a baby will only need a one bedroom apartment, so if there is space to store it, a cot is always a welcome addition.
Digital Essentials
We live in a digital age, so all the properties must at very least have Freeview TV, a DVD player and unlimited WIFI. A docking station or digital radio is always a nice touch and appreciated by guests.
Going The Extra Mile
Guests will always appreciate an owner going that ‘extra mile’ to ensure their stay is the best it can possibly be. Small details and little touches go a long way to securing regular guests and ensuring that visitors have a more enjoyable stay. Small welcome packs, a bottle of wine or a few basic essentials are always appreciated by guests.
In addition, well thought out instructions for how to work everything in the flat is incredibly helpful and include a few things to do and places to go nearby, such as; cafes, restaurants, walks, attractions etc.
Doing these extra little things for guests will ensure repeat business and hopefully some wonderful guest reviews too.
Get Social…
Social Media is a great way to get the word out about your property. St Dickins, we do regular blog features on properties, highlight specific flats in our monthly newsletter and spread the word on social media.
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