So, you are earnestly thinking about short letting your primary home or converting your second home into a holiday let. Despite the fact short-letting can be exceptionally lucrative, many opt to long let their home as they believe it is more convenient and feasible.

Many people have misconceptions about short letting which prevent them from taking advantage of this booming market. We have identified and debunked some popular short letting myths below...

1.  Guests might damage my property and its contents!

This is a popular concern, particularly if you are letting your primary home whilst you are away. To ensure hosts' security and protection, platforms like Airbnb have implemented several safeguards and mechanisms. Airbnb's Host Guarantee and host protection insurance are there to cover most of the damages. However, for peace of mind, a security deposit can be useful for smaller, simple accidents that occur during a stay – like a broken glass. Pass the Keys, as an official Airbnb Co-Host, suggests that homeowners lock their valuables away to prevent this problem.

2. What if I don't get paid?

By working with short-term rental platforms, guests and hosts are protected by security features such as cancellation and refund policies. It is advisable not to accept payments outside of these systems and not to expose yourself to unnecessary risks. Usually, the guest pays to the rental platform when they make the reservation, and the platform transfers the money to the hosts 24 hours after the guest checks-in.

3. What if my guests will not leave?

Tourists generally have a limited number of vacation days, a return ticket or maybe a visa with an expiry date. Also, most platforms have legislation in place to deal with such situations. An additional way to prevent such a situation from happening is a proper screening of the guest prior to reservation. You can also check reviews of the guest, which are generally shown on their public profile and are visible to anyone on Airbnb. Check the importance of the guest vetting process. Companies such as Pass the Keys offers a guest screening service to keep your property safe.

4. Key exchange is such an inconvenience!

Dealing with key exchange can be challenging if there is no proper management or communication. Using smart locks is a great way to solve this issue. This way, you can install a door opening system with a code and change it every time a new guest arrives. New technologies also allow the use of smartphones to unlock house doors. This functionality can be programmed to expire after a certain time has passed. Another method is to install a digital key safe where you can actually store keys outside your house and give access to whoever you like. Sounds easy enough!

5. What if I don't feel comfortable with the guest?

You can decline any booking request you feel uncomfortable with. To do this, ensure that your “instant book” is off and carry out a guest screening prior to booking. Furthermore, if you are not sure about a guest who has already checked-in, portals like Airbnb give you the ability to cancel the reservation at any time. Most short let portals also have emergency helplines that look into such matters immediately. If you are still uncertain, learn how to effectively market your property to the right type of guest.

6. What if my property receives noise complaints?

Airbnb allows you to set up your own house rules before accepting a booking. Have a concise set of rules for things that bother you like ‘no-smoking’ or ‘no loud music' and remind your guests of house rules prior to their arrival. If guests don't oblige with your rules, confront them politely about it, and if they choose not to listen, you can cancel their booking.

What's Next?

If you are still unsure about short-letting, then working with an award winning short let management company could further put you at ease as a host. Pass the Keys property management take security and protection very seriously, for both guest and host. Whatever Airbnb recommends as a precautionary measure, we implement as a must. We set up and follow house rules, and ensure that your property is safeguarded. Pass the Keys will manage your property, from advertising on short-let sites, to guest booking, cleaning, check-in/out and guest changeover. We operate a twenty-four hour guest helpline and keep hosts updated every step of the way. Read our blog on host security and what steps we take to ensure safety. 

Why not get a free assessment on how much could you earn by short letting your property in the UK with Pass the Keys?