Somerset has always held a special appeal for second homeowners. From the rolling hills of the Mendip Hills and Quantock Hills to historic towns like Wells and Glastonbury, it offers a perfect combination of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and proximity to both cities and the coast. Owning a second property here has long been associated with weekend getaways, seasonal retreats, or quiet countryside escapes.

But many owners are now asking: “Should my property sit empty for most of the year, or could it work harder for me?” Increasingly, the answer is turning to short-term lets.

The Hidden Costs of Leaving a Property Empty

Many second homeowners underestimate the true costs of leaving a property unoccupied:

• Maintenance Risks: Even a few weeks of vacancy can allow minor issues to escalate. Damp, leaks, or electrical faults often go unnoticed in empty homes. Regular occupancy through short-term lets ensures these problems are spotted and addressed promptly.

• Security Concerns: Vacant homes are more vulnerable to break-ins, vandalism, or squatters. Having regular, vetted guests provides a natural deterrent and an added layer of protection.

• Insurance Considerations: Insurers often charge higher premiums or restrict coverage for properties left empty for extended periods. Occupied properties typically attract lower premiums and stronger coverage.

• Missed Income Opportunities: Perhaps the most overlooked cost is the potential revenue lost by letting a property sit idle. With Somerset’s growing popularity as a tourist and festival destination, unused properties are literally leaving money on the table.

Why Somerset Is Perfect for Short-Term Letting

Somerset’s unique characteristics make it ideal for short-term lets, especially for second homeowners who want to balance personal use with income generation:

• Year-Round Appeal: From summer weekends to autumn walks in the countryside, Somerset attracts visitors throughout the year. Historical landmarks like Wells Cathedral, Cheddar Gorge, and the Somerset Levels draw tourists, while local festivals and events provide seasonal peaks.

• Festival Tourism: Glastonbury Festival, one of the world’s most famous music events, brings tens of thousands of visitors every year, creating huge short-let demand in nearby towns and villages. Even smaller local events attract cultural tourists who want an authentic stay.

• Diverse Guest Profiles: Families seeking rural retreats, couples looking for romantic escapes, and solo travellers exploring Somerset’s food, history, and nature all create a broad market. This variety allows owners to maximise occupancy.

• Accessibility: Somerset’s proximity to Bristol, Bath, and the South West coast makes it easy for visitors to combine city trips with countryside stays, further increasing demand for well-located short-lets.

The Advantages of Short-Term Lets for Second Homeowners

Second homeowners often have unique requirements, which short-term lets can satisfy:

1. Flexible Use: Unlike traditional rentals, short-term lets allow homeowners to block out dates for personal use. Whether it’s school holidays, special occasions, or spontaneous weekend breaks, you retain full control over your property.

2. Higher Revenue Potential: Seasonal demand and high-quality tourism mean short-term lets often outperform long-term rentals in terms of annual income. Owners can capitalise on peak periods like summer holidays, festival weeks, and Christmas.

3. Professional Property Management: Working with experts like Pass the Keys Wells, led by local partner Anthony, ensures your property is maintained, cleaned, and marketed professionally. This hands-off approach allows you to earn income without the hassle of day-to-day management.

4. Guest Screening & Security: A professional short-let manager handles guest vetting, bookings, and check-ins, reducing the risk of damage and providing peace of mind.

Case in Point: Maximising Somerset Property Potential

Take a classic Somerset cottage near Wells. Previously, it was used sporadically by its owners, leaving months of vacancy in between visits. After partnering with a professional management service, the owners now:

• Earn consistent revenue from short-term lets, particularly during festival weekends and summer holidays.

• Block out a few key dates for family use without affecting bookings for the rest of the year.

• Enjoy full support for cleaning, maintenance, and guest communication.

This approach transforms an underutilised second home into a reliable income-generating asset while still keeping it available for personal enjoyment.

Why Pass the Keys Wells Makes the Difference

Managing a short-let is more complex than it first appears. Pricing, multi-platform listings, guest communication, and property upkeep all require attention. Pass the Keys Wells, with local franchise partner Anthony, provides a fully-managed, hands-off solution:

• Multi-platform marketing on Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo.

• Professional photography and property staging.

• Dynamic pricing to maximise occupancy and revenue.

• 24/7 guest support and booking management.

• Cleaning and maintenance coordination between stays.

This level of service ensures that second homeowners benefit from both financial returns and complete peace of mind.

FAQs

Is short-term letting more profitable than traditional renting in Somerset?
Yes. With seasonal peaks, festivals, and steady tourist demand, short-lets often generate significantly higher annual income compared to long-term rentals.

Can I still use my property if I rent it short-term?
Absolutely. Short-let management allows you to block out dates for personal use, giving you the flexibility to enjoy your home whenever you want.

Do I need permission or a licence for short-term letting in Somerset?
Requirements vary by property type and location. Working with a professional management company ensures compliance with local council regulations.

Will frequent guest turnover cause wear and tear?
Professional management ensures thorough cleaning and maintenance after each stay, often resulting in better upkeep than long-term tenants.

How much work will I need to do as a host?
With a fully-managed service like Pass the Keys, your involvement is minimal. The team handles bookings, guest communication, cleaning, and maintenance, leaving you free to enjoy the benefits.

Final Thoughts

For second homeowners in Somerset, the choice is clear: leave a property empty and risk lost income and hidden costs—or unlock its full potential through short-term letting. With professional support, your property can earn reliably, remain well-maintained, and still be available whenever you wish to enjoy it.

✅ Thinking of letting your Somerset property? Speak to Anthony, your local Pass the Keys Wells partner, to find out how much your home could earn and start your hands-free hosting journey today.