Is my property suitable for Airbnb and short let management?

Location matters, but not how you think

Don't get hung up on postcode. Some of the best short lets we see are ordinary terraces near a hospital or business park. What matters is who needs to stay nearby. Hospitals, universities, big employers, construction projects, good transport links and tourist spots all bring guests.

In towns like Lincoln, Nottingham and Milton Keynes, a lot of bookings come from contractors and business travellers during the week, not just tourists at the weekend. That steady weekday demand is what makes the whole thing work.

What type of property works best?

Flats, terraces, semis and detached houses can all do well. Two and three bed places are usually the sweet spot because they suit contractor teams and families.

And parking is massively underrated. Contractors will pick a house with a driveway over a nicer one without, every time.

Does it need to be furnished?

Yes, fully, and it needs to be clean and well kept. But don't overspend. Guests care about a good bed, fast wifi and a spotless bathroom far more than designer furniture. If your place isn't furnished yet, we'll tell you what's worth buying and what to skip.

The boring but important checks

Before anything else, check these:

• Mortgage: your lender needs to allow short lets, or you'll need a holiday let mortgage
• Lease: if it's a leasehold flat, read the lease for anything banning short lets
• Insurance: standard landlord insurance won't cover you, so you'll need specialist short let cover
• Local rules: some areas have limits. In London, for example, you can only let a whole home for 90 nights a year without planning permission
• Safety: gas safety certificate, electrical check, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and a fire risk assessment

Honestly, if your lease bans short lets, don't fight it. You'll spend more on solicitors than you'll ever make.

Is it right for you, though?

The property is only half of it. Short lets suit landlords who want higher income and flexibility, and who are comfortable with earnings moving month to month. Summer might be brilliant, January a bit quieter. If that would keep you up at night, a long let might suit you better.

When we'd say no

Sometimes a property just isn't right. A lease or mortgage that bans short lets and can't be changed. An area with hardly any demand. A place that needs major work before anyone could stay in it.

We'd rather tell you upfront that your property won't work than take you on and disappoint you.