Bath, renowned for its Georgian architecture, English charm, and rich cultural heritage, attracts millions of tourists each year. As a property owner in this UNESCO World Heritage city, you may be wondering how you can capitalise on the booming tourism industry. One increasingly popular option is to make your property available for short-term rental through platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, or Vrbo.

With a little preparation and the right approach, your property can become a valuable asset in Bath’s vibrant tourism scene. Before you start, it’s important to research local regulations surrounding short-term rentals, including leasehold agreements, mortgage terms, and health and safety standards.

Here are five key benefits to consider when turning your property into a short-term rental.

1. Increased Income Potential

One of the immediate advantages of offering your property as a short-term rental in Bath is the potential for increased income. Tourists are willing to pay a premium for well-located properties that offer the comforts of home. Whether you own an apartment in the city centre or a charming cottage on the outskirts, short-term rentals often command higher nightly rates compared to long-term rentals.

The influx of visitors to Bath throughout the year creates strong demand for short-term accommodation, especially during peak seasons like the Bath Christmas Market, summer months, or major events like the Bath Half Marathon. By setting competitive rates and offering a high-quality guest experience, you can maximise your revenue.

2. Flexibility and Control Over Your Property

Unlike traditional long-term rentals, which require you to commit to a tenant for months or years, short-term rentals offer unmatched flexibility. As a property owner, you have full control over when your property is available. You can choose to rent it out only during busy periods or keep it for personal use whenever you wish.

This flexibility also extends to pricing. You can adjust rental rates based on demand, seasonality, and special events in the city. For instance, during major events like Bath Festivals or concerts, you can raise your prices accordingly. 

3. Improved Property Security and Maintenance 

With a high turnover of guests, your property is constantly being checked and monitored, which helps identify any issues early on—something not always possible with long-term tenants. Whether it’s a leaky tap, faulty appliances, or signs of wear and tear, short-term rentals allow for timely intervention and repairs.

Additionally, offering your property as a short-term rental ensures it remains regularly occupied, which can deter potential break-ins or vandalism. The constant flow of visitors provides peace of mind, knowing that your property is being cared for and maintained in top condition.

4. Exposure to a Global Market

Bath attracts tourists from around the world, and by listing your property on short-term rental platforms, you can gain access to a global audience. These platforms offer a great way to showcase your property with professional photos, detailed descriptions, and positive guest reviews, all of which can help your listing stand out.

This online exposure is invaluable. With the right marketing strategy and high-quality guest experience, your property can easily become a preferred choice for travellers seeking a unique and local place to stay in Bath.

5. Boosting the Local Economy

Every short-term rental property in Bath contributes to the hospitality sector. Visitors to Bath spend money in local shops, restaurants, and attractions, helping to sustain and grow the city’s economy.

By offering your property as a short-term rental, you’re directly supporting local businesses. Additionally, if you engage local property management companies, cleaning services, maintenance workers, or interior designers, you help create more opportunities for local professionals, further boosting Bath’s economy.

Turning your Bath property into a short-term rental offers numerous benefits. By partnering with a professional property management company, you can maximise your property’s success while reducing the day-to-day workload. Whether you’re new to the short-term rental market or looking to optimise an existing property, Bath is excellent location to unlock your property’s true potential.