Have you ever arrived at a holiday rental, excited for a relaxing getaway, only to find yourself scrambling for a corkscrew or wishing there were enough towels for everyone?
It’s the little things that can make or break a guest’s experience.
In the competitive UK holiday let market, “fully furnished” isn’t just a buzzword – it’s a promise. It means providing guests with everything they need for a comfortable, stress-free stay, from essential appliances to thoughtful extras.
In this guide, we go into what truly constitutes a fully furnished holiday let and explore how exceeding guest expectations can translate into glowing reviews, repeat bookings, and ultimately, a thriving rental business.
Fully Furnished: Essential Furniture and Appliances
Creating a welcoming and functional space starts with the essentials.
These are the fundamental items that every guest expects to find in a fully furnished holiday let:
Bedroom
A comfortable bed is non-negotiable. Invest in a high-quality mattress and ensure it’s the right size for the room and the number of guests you intend to accommodate.
Provide a variety of pillows to suit different preferences and ensure all bedding is fresh, clean, and of good quality. Consider offering extra blankets for colder months.
A wardrobe or chest of drawers is essential for guests to unpack and organise their belongings.
Living Area
A sofa and armchairs should provide ample seating for all guests to relax and unwind. Choose durable fabrics that are easy to clean and maintain.
A practical surface or coffee table for drinks, snacks, or books adds to the comfort of the living area.
A TV is a standard expectation, but elevate the experience by offering streaming services like Netflix and/or a DVD player with a selection of films.
Kitchen
A fridge-freezer, oven/hob, microwave, kettle, and toaster are the bare minimum for a self-catering holiday let.
Provide a wide range of pots, pans, baking dishes, knives, cutting boards, and utensils to cater to various cooking styles.
Ensure there are enough plates, bowls, glasses, mugs, and cutlery for all guests, plus a few spares.
Dining Area
Choose a table and chairs that comfortably seat the maximum number of guests you allow.
Consider the space available and opt for a table that can be extended if needed.
Bathroom
Provide enough bath and hand towels for each guest, plus extras. Consider offering beach towels if your property is near the coast.
A non-slip bath mat is essential for safety and a fresh, clean shower curtain is a must.
Start guests off with travel-sized soap, shampoo, and conditioner.
Remember, these are just the essentials.
While it’s important to use good quality items, they should also be durable and easy-to-clean.
By going above and beyond with additional amenities and thoughtful touches, you’ll create a holiday let that stands out from the competition and keeps guests coming back for more.
Beyond the Basics
While the essentials create a functional base, it’s the thoughtful extras that make a holiday truly memorable.
Consider these amenities to enhance your guests’ experience:
Technology:
- Fast Wi-Fi: In today’s connected world, reliable and fast Wi-Fi is a must-have. Guests expect to stream movies, check emails, and browse social media without interruption.
- Smart TV: A smart TV with access to popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and BBC iPlayer gives guests entertainment options beyond traditional channels.
- Bluetooth Speaker: A portable speaker allows guests to play their favourite music while relaxing indoors or enjoying the outdoor space.
Outdoor Space (if applicable):
- Patio Furniture: Comfortable seating and a dining table encourage guests to spend time outdoors, enjoying the fresh air and sunshine.
- BBQ Grill: A barbecue grill adds a fun and social element to a holiday, especially during warmer months.
- Garden Games: Croquet, badminton, or giant Jenga can provide hours of entertainment for families and groups of friends.
Additional Touches:
- Welcome Hamper: A basket filled with local treats, snacks, and a bottle of wine is a thoughtful way to greet guests upon arrival.
- Local Guidebooks and Maps: Help guests discover the best attractions, restaurants, and activities in the area.
- Board Games and Puzzles: Provide entertainment options for rainy days or quiet evenings.
- Books and Magazines: A selection of reading material can be a welcome distraction for guests who enjoy unwinding with a good book.
- Extra Blankets and Pillows: Cater to different preferences and ensure everyone stays cosy.
- Coffee Machine: Include a coffee maker or espresso machine for guests who enjoy a fresh cup of coffee in the morning. Consider providing a variety of coffee and tea options.
Maintenance and Repairs
Ensuring a seamless guest experience goes beyond initial furnishings.
Regular maintenance and prompt repairs are essential for both guest satisfaction and the longevity of your property.
Create a detailed inventory of all items in the property, including furniture, appliances, and décor.
A copy of the inventory should be provided to guests upon arrival and they should be asked to report any discrepancies.
Regular Inspections:
- Schedule Checks: Implement a routine schedule for inspecting appliances, plumbing, electrical systems, and the overall condition of the property. Look for leaks, wear and tear, and any potential safety hazards.
- Appliance Maintenance: Keep appliances running smoothly by scheduling professional servicing and cleaning. This includes the boiler, heating system, and any gas appliances.
- Seasonal Preparation: Prepare your property for different seasons. This might involve checking gutters before autumn, ensuring the heating system is in good working order before winter, or servicing the air conditioning for summer.
Prompt Response:
- Be Available: Provide clear contact information for guests to report any issues or concerns during their stay. Respond promptly to their messages and address any problems as quickly as possible.
- Emergency Plan: Have a plan in place for dealing with emergencies, such as a burst pipe or a power outage. Know who to contact for immediate assistance.
- Feedback: Encourage guests to provide feedback on their stay, including any maintenance issues they encountered. This can help you identify areas for improvement.
Professional Services:
- Property Management: If you don’t have the time or expertise to handle maintenance and repairs yourself, consider hiring a property management company. They can take care of everything from cleaning and maintenance to guest communication and booking management.
- Trusted Tradespeople: Establish relationships with reliable plumbers, electricians, and other tradespeople who can respond quickly to any urgent repairs.
Remember, a well-maintained property not only ensures happy guests but also protects your investment. Proactive maintenance can prevent small problems from turning into costly repairs down the line.
The Business of Fully Furnished Holiday Lets
Beyond creating a comfortable guest experience, a fully furnished holiday let is a business venture with financial implications and marketing considerations.
The income you can generate from your holiday let depends on various factors, including location, property size, amenities offered, and demand. Researching average nightly rates in your area can give you a good starting point.
Holiday let income is taxable, and currently, Furnished Holiday Lets (FHLs) have specific tax rules that can offer benefits such as capital allowances on furnishings and potential Capital Gains Tax reliefs.
However, it’s important to note that the FHL regime is being phased out, with these benefits no longer applying from April 2025. You should seek professional tax advice to understand how this change might affect your financial planning.
Marketing your property effectively is essential for attracting bookings and maximising your income. Start by highlighting the unique selling points of your holiday let.
Is it the picturesque location, the luxurious amenities, or the stylish décor?
Professional photography can beautifully showcase your property’s best features, making it irresistible to potential guests.
Listing your property on popular platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Vrbo will significantly expand your reach. Finally, tailor your marketing efforts to your target audience – whether it’s families, couples, or pet owners – to attract the right guests and secure bookings.
An opportunity
A fully furnished holiday let is more than just a place for guests to rest their heads – it’s an opportunity to create a memorable experience that translates into positive reviews, repeat bookings, and a thriving rental business.
By investing in essential furniture and appliances, offering thoughtful amenities, and prioritising maintenance, you can set your property apart in the highly competitive UK holiday let market.
If your ambitions go beyond owning just one or two holiday lets then you may have considered owning a holiday park site. The finance for this is slightly different as you will need holiday park finance (commercial mortgage) to buy the actual land first.
