Property Owner's Guide to Holiday Rentals
Everything you need to know about turning your Akaroa property into a profitable investment. From choosing the right management approach to maximizing your rental income.
What You'll Learn:
Getting Started
Before diving into holiday rentals, it's important to understand the basics and ensure your property is ready.
Preparing Your Property
Transform your property into a guest-ready holiday rental with the right furnishings, amenities, and safety measures.
Pro Tip: The 5-Minute Rule
Walk through your property as if you're a guest arriving for the first time. Within 5 minutes, you should be able to: find the WiFi password, figure out how to use the TV, locate extra blankets, and understand the heating/cooling system. If it takes longer, consider improving your setup or instructions.
Professional Management Support
With full management services, we handle property assessment and preparation guidance as part of our onboarding process. Our team conducts detailed property evaluations, provides furnishing recommendations, and ensures all safety compliance is met before your first guest arrives.
This includes professional photography consultation to highlight your property's best features, ongoing maintenance coordination, and seasonal preparation adjustments to keep your property guest-ready year-round.
Understanding Your Management Options
Every property owner has different needs and circumstances. Here's an honest look at the pros and cons of each management approach to help you make the right choice.
Pros
- • No management fees
- • Complete control over property
- • Direct guest relationships
- • Flexible pricing & availability
- • Keep all revenue (after platform fees)
Cons
- • Time intensive (20-25 hrs/month)
- • Always on-call for emergencies
- • Marketing expertise required
- • Guest screening responsibility
- • No coverage when unavailable
- • Stress of complaints/issues
Best for: Retired or flexible schedule owners who enjoy guest interaction
Pros
- • Professional cleaning handled
- • Some time savings
- • Maintain booking control
- • Lower cost than full service
- • Choose your cleaner
Cons
- • Still 15+ hours/month work
- • Guest communication on you
- • Marketing/pricing skills needed
- • Emergency response your job
- • Coordination still required
- • Limited professional support
Best for: Local owners who want to stay involved but need cleaning help
Pros
- • Completely hands-off
- • Professional marketing
- • 24/7 guest support
- • Revenue optimization
- • Emergency response included
- • Quality standards maintained
Cons
- • Management fees (15-25%)
- • Less direct control
- • Rely on company standards
- • Communication via third party
- • May feel disconnected
Best for: Busy professionals, remote owners, or those wanting passive income
Which Option is Right for You?
- • You live locally
- • You enjoy guest interaction
- • You have flexible schedule
- • You want maximum control
- • You live nearby
- • You want some involvement
- • You have hospitality skills
- • Budget is tight
- • You live remotely
- • You want passive income
- • You're busy professionally
- • You want maximum revenue
Marketing & Photography
Professional presentation is crucial for attracting guests and maximizing bookings. Learn how to showcase your property effectively.
Invest in Professional Photos
Quality photos can increase bookings by 40-60%. Professional photography pays for itself within weeks.
Capture Key Shots
Exterior, living areas, all bedrooms, bathrooms, kitchen, and unique features or views.
Best Lighting Conditions
Schedule photos during the day with natural light. Avoid harsh shadows and dark corners.
Stage Your Property
Clean thoroughly, declutter, add fresh flowers, and arrange furniture to maximise space.
Compelling Property Title
Include location, property type, and key selling points. "Stunning Akaroa Harbour Views - Modern 3BR Home"
Detailed Description
Highlight unique features, nearby attractions, and what makes your property special for Akaroa visitors.
Accurate Amenity List
Be comprehensive but honest about what you offer. Include WiFi, parking, kitchen facilities, and location benefits.
Competitive Pricing Strategy
Research similar properties in Akaroa. Consider seasonal demand, local events, and unique features.
Ready to Start Your Holiday Rental Journey?
Whether you choose self-management or full-service management, we're here to help you succeed in Akaroa's holiday rental market.