WiFi, a safe and guest reviews are key to renting out your Spanish holiday home
Spain has become a land of opportunity for property investors, according to representatives at the recent MIPIM property conference in Cannes, France which comes as good news for those who already own a holiday rental in Spain. For those who want more bookings for their property, we find out what features are key to renting out a Spanish holiday home.
España Breaks, a boutique website advertising holiday rentals all over Spain compiled data from across their portfolio in January 2012 and discovered some stand out features that help raise interest among potential guests.
In the gadget stakes, España Breaks data identified that while devices such as satellite television and games consoles increase rental interest, WiFi and internet access led the way with 19% of guests in January 2012 enquiring for properties that offered these essential features.
Meanwhile, when it comes to property size, 37% of enquires were made for properties with only one bedroom while 23% desired two. With this in mind, España Breaks identified that the majority of holidaymakers travel in groups of four people or less, and along with not wanting to pay the higher rental rates a large property can require, accounts for the lack of interest in larger properties.
Further research shows that properties with reviews from past guests gain more enquiries. Indeed, reviewed properties generated 36% more renter enquiries in January 2012. España Breaks also examined the effect on enquiries levels for un-reviewed property, revealing 40% less enquiries than average.
Finally, when it comes to creature comforts, properties with a secure safe where renters can shelter their valuables was of great importance in January’s enquiries, with 21% requesting this key feature. Taking second spot was the humble hair dryer which increased enquiry levels by 17%.
Robin Haynes, MD of award-winning foreign exchange specialists, Currency Index comments,
“Those who currently rent their Spanish property should take note of these top tips. WiFi and internet access for example are key features within a property nowadays as renters want to use their smartphones for accessing social networking sites, uploading photos or indeed checking the latest exchange rates while guest reviews make all the difference to securing future renters.
“Those who are considering buying rental property will be pleased to know that prices in the traditional favourite location of Spain have reduced significantly for British buyers in the last 6 months, due to the combined effect of a cheaper Euro, and lower local prices.”
For more information about exchange rates and buying currency, contact Robin at Currency Index on 0800 043 2623 or visit www.currencyindex.co.uk.