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Thinking of Selling or Renting?
Want to know if your property has increased in value since you purchased it?
We listen to your goals and we offer honest advice coming from experience and local knowledge but geared to your own expectations.
Whether it is a sales, lettings or HMO valuation our dedicated well qualified team will be more than happy to conduct a FREE appraisal of your property.
Not only will they let you know how much your home is worth, our qualified team will also be there to guide you through every step of the process.
Arrange a Sales Valuation
Thinking of selling? Our local property expert will visit your property to provide your free valuation, and be on hand to answer any of your questions.
Arrange a Letting Valuation
Thinking of letting? Our letting team have referenced tenants looking for properties. Get in touch to arrange a Letting valuation.
Arrange an HMO Valuation
Thinking of an HMO valuation. Our team specialise in HMO licensing and understand the market & regulation required to provide accurate, local HMO valuations.
Arrange an Investment Consultation
Cairn also have a dedicated investment team who can consult you on property portfolios and private stock.
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Letting
How to Maximise Returns from Short-Term Letting
How to Maximise Returns from Short-Term Letting If you’re looking to boost your rental income through short-term lets, you’ve come to the right place. Whether you’re new to holiday let management or a seasoned landlord wanting to refine your approach, we’re here to share our top short-term letting tips. By focusing on smart pricing strategies, effective marketing, and efficient maintenance, you can maximise rental returns and ensure a steady stream of happy guests. Choosing the Right Pricing Strategy One of the most critical steps in short-term letting is getting your pricing right. Setting your rates too high can scare off potential guests, while pricing too low might leave money on the table. Market Research – Before listing your property, investigate similar rentals in your area. Look at their nightly or weekly rates, the types of amenities they offer, and how they’re presented. Seasonal Adjustments – Demand often fluctuates with the seasons. For instance, if you’re in a popular holiday destination, prices could spike during summer or school breaks. Don’t be afraid to adjust your rates to reflect increased demand. Dynamic Pricing Tools – Numerous online platforms can help optimise your pricing in real-time, taking into account local events, holidays, and market competition. By staying flexible and aware of market trends, you can avoid undercutting yourself while still attracting the right guests. Quality Presentation Matters Even the best-located property needs the right presentation to stand out. Potential guests typically browse multiple listings, so grabbing their attention from the start is crucial. Professional Photography – High-quality photos that showcase your property’s unique features—be it a cosy living area or a scenic balcony—can significantly boost bookings. Compelling Descriptions – Keep your listing concise yet engaging, highlighting key selling points such as proximity to attractions or recent refurbishments. Make it clear how guests will benefit from staying at your let. Well-Thought-Out Amenities – Essentials like free Wi-Fi, fresh linens, and fully stocked kitchens are almost expected by today’s travellers. Going the extra mile—like offering a welcome hamper or local guidebook—can attract glowing reviews. Seamless Maintenance and Upkeep When it comes to holiday let management, maintenance can make or break your success. An untidy or poorly functioning property can lead to negative feedback and lower occupancy rates. Regular Inspections – Conduct thorough checks between guest stays to spot wear and tear or any urgent repairs. Timely fixes not only preserve your property but also keep guests happy. Proactive Housekeeping – Whether you hire a cleaning service or handle it yourself, ensure that each turnover meets hotel-level standards. This is essential for maintaining your short-term let’s reputation. Maintenance Schedules – Establish a routine plan for garden care, appliance servicing, and other periodic tasks. Preventative measures often cost far less than emergency repairs. Effective Marketing Strategies A hidden gem won’t stay hidden if you market it correctly. Besides listing on popular short-term letting platforms, consider other channels for attracting guests. Social Media Presence – Platforms like Instagram can showcase your property’s aesthetic appeal to a wide audience. Partnerships with Local Businesses – Cross-promote with nearby restaurants, tour operators, or attractions to create unique holiday packages. This can be a win-win for both parties. Loyalty Programmes – Encourage repeat bookings by offering returning guests a discount or a value-added perk—like late check-out or a complimentary local experience. Encouraging Positive Reviews Word-of-mouth plays a huge role in the short-term letting world. A single glowing review can convince future guests to book immediately. Prompt Follow-Up – After a guest checks out, send a personalised thank-you message and kindly request feedback or a review. Responsive Communication – Be available to answer queries promptly, resolve minor issues, and show genuine care for your guests’ experiences. Offer Little Extras – Small gestures—a bottle of wine or local information guides—often turn a satisfactory stay into a memorable one. FAQ Q: Do I need planning permission for short-term lets?A: Requirements differ by local council. Some areas in Scotland may require additional permits. Check with your local authority to stay compliant. Q: How can I reduce the stress of frequent guest turnovers?A: Creating a turnover checklist can streamline your preparation process. Also, consider professional cleaning services to lighten the load. Q: What’s the best way to handle guest deposits or damages?A: Most booking platforms provide a security deposit option. Alternatively, you can request a deposit outside the platform, but make sure it’s detailed in your terms and conditions. Short-term letting can be incredibly rewarding if approached strategically. From choosing the right pricing structure to maintaining impeccable standards, these short-term letting tips will help you stand out in a competitive market. At Cairn Estate & Letting, we’re passionate about helping landlords succeed in holiday let management. If you’re ready to maximise rental returns or simply want a helping hand, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Glasgow, Letting, News, Property Management, testimonial
“Teamwork and Dedication” – A personal recommendation by Scotland’s Former Rugby Captain, Andy Nicol
Our CEO David Rowand met up with Andy Nicol, here is what he had to say.. “As a former Scottish rugby captain, I understand the importance of teamwork and dedication! Recently, my daughter was seeking a rental flat in Glasgow, and I turned to recommended Cairn Letting & Estate Agency for assistance. David and his […]
Careers, Edinburgh, Letting, Meet The Team, Property Managers, Staff
Meet the team – Nicola Ainslie – Business Development Branch Manager – Edinburgh
Describe your role in one sentence at Cairn? As the Business Development and Edinburgh Branch Manager at Cairn, I oversee operations, drive growth, and build strong relationships to ensure the success of our letting and management services. What’s the best thing about working at Cairn? The people! From day one, I felt like I had been here for years—a credit to the team’s warm welcome and the company culture that makes coming to work so enjoyable. What is your proudest business achievement/moment? With 27 years in the property industry, I’ve had many proud moments, but stepping into my role at Cairn and feeling like part of the team so quickly is a big one. It’s a testament to finding the right fit in both culture and career. What is the best piece of business advice you have been given? You don’t know it all—listen to those around you, especially those with knowledge and experience. Give us an interesting fact about yourself? I’m a dedicated football mum, and no matter how many games I watch, I’ll never get tired of standing on the sidelines cheering my kids on. What advice would you give your 18-year-old self? You don’t know everything—listen to others, especially your mum! Who are your heroes inside or outside of business? My mum—she always gave great advice (even when I didn’t listen). What qualities do you most admire in others? A positive attitude can be contagious, uplifting and create an environment where innovation thrives. A willingness to learn, improve, and embrace new challenges is essential for long-term success. How do you unwind out of work? Watching my kids play football, spending time with family, and enjoying the friendly football rivalry at home as I support a different club to my husband and kids. Favourite book and film? Even after all these years, Dirty Dancing is still my go-to movie. Where is your favourite place in Scotland? Any football pitch where my kids are playing—that’s where I’m happiest!
