Introduction
The shortlet business is booming, offering higher returns than traditional rentals. If you’re thinking about starting one, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to launch a profitable shortlet business.
Step 1: Research & Choose a Profitable Location
Not all locations are good for shortlets. A great location should have:
✅ High tourist or business traffic
✅ Proximity to airports, business districts, or entertainment hubs
✅ Demand from business travelers, vacationers, or expats
Tip: Use platforms like Recks luxury homes website to analyze high-demand areas.
Step 2: Secure the Right Property
You can either:
🏡 Buy a property – If you have the capital, this is a long-term investment.
🏠 Lease for shortlet use – Rent a property and get landlord approval to sublet.
🤝 Partner with property owners – Manage their property for a commission.
Tip: Look for apartments with modern interiors, security, and easy access to transportation.
Step 3: Set Up & Furnish Your Space
To attract guests, your shortlet must feel like a home away from home. Essentials include:
🛏️ Comfortable bedding & furniture
📺 WiFi, Smart TV, and entertainment options
🍽️ Well-equipped kitchen with basic appliances
🎨 Attractive interior decor for aesthetic appeal
Tip: Invest in quality photos—first impressions matter!
Step 4: Register on Shortlet Platforms
To get bookings, list your shortlet on multiple platforms:
🌍 Recks luxury homes
🏡 Local listing sites (like Jiji, Private Property, or Facebook Marketplace)
📱 Social media & personal website (for direct bookings)
Tip: Optimize your listings with high-quality images and a compelling description.
Step 5: Set Competitive Pricing & Manage Bookings
Your pricing should be based on:
💰 Market rates – Check competitors in your area.
🎯 Peak vs. off-peak seasons – Adjust prices accordingly.
🛎️ Additional services – Cleaning, airport pickup, or long-stay discounts.
Tip: Use a dynamic pricing tool like PriceLabs or Beyond Pricing to maximize earnings.
Step 6: Market Your Shortlet Business
You won’t get bookings if no one knows about your shortlet! Use:
📸 Instagram & TikTok – Showcase your space with engaging content.
📩 Email & WhatsApp marketing – Build a customer list for repeat bookings.
⭐ Google My Business – Get found when people search for shortlets in your area.
Tip: Encourage guests to leave reviews—they boost credibility!
Step 7: Manage Guests & Maintain Quality Service
🏡 Provide a seamless check-in/check-out process (self-check-in is a plus!)
🛠️ Have a reliable cleaner & maintenance team
📞 Respond to guest inquiries quickly
🎁 Offer small surprises (e.g., a welcome snack) to get 5-star reviews
Tip: Bad guest experiences lead to bad reviews, which kill bookings.
Step 8: Scale Your Shortlet Business
Once you get steady bookings, expand by:
🏘️ Adding more properties in high-demand locations
📊 Automating operations with channel managers like HostAway
💰 Offering property management services for other landlords
Tip: Reinvent your business with new marketing strategies to stay ahead.
Final Thoughts
Starting a shortlet business can be highly profitable if done right. Focus on location, quality service, and smart marketing to maximize your success.
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