Holiday Letting hot Topics

Katy Falconer, Owner Experience Manager at John Bray Cornish Holidays, shares her insights on the latest industry talking points.

With over 50 years of experience, John Bray Cornish Holidays understands that property owners have questions before each new season and 2025 is no exception.  With that in mind, we asked Owner Experience Manager, Katy Falconer, to run through some  of the common queries.

What lies ahead in terms of customer demand and bookings?

Bookings at our 250+ holiday homes on the north Cornwall coastline continue to flow in, with positive indicators for the year ahead. Our annual survey of 1,000 UK adults conducted in November revealed that 80% are considering UK holiday accommodation in the next year, with 25% specifically looking at Devon and Cornwall. Many properties have already secured over 20 bookings for 2025, reinforcing optimism about continued demand.

Booking trends show a 3.7% year-on-year increase per property, with short breaks gaining popularity. In 2024, 24% of Cornwall bookings were for three to five-night stays, up from 22% in 2023. These mini-breaks benefit owners, as two short stays can generate up to 178% of the income from a single week-long booking.

Last-minute bookings are also rising, particularly for smaller properties. In 2024, 30% of one-bedroom bookings in Cornwall were made within four weeks of arrival. Additionally, pet-friendly properties remain in high demand, with more than 60% of listed homes now catering to dog owners, broadening their market appeal.

Owners who adapt to evolving customer preferences are more likely to see strong booking levels and increased income.

What government changes should owners be aware of?

Recent legislative changes include the abolishment of the Furnished Holiday Let tax regime and updated fire safety regulations. Here at John Bray Cornish Holidays, we offer support through our in-house legal team and Owner Portal, ensuring that owners remain informed and compliant. For further guidance, owners can reach out to our expert team.

How can owners maximise income while maintaining a hassle-free letting experience?

Selecting the right letting agent is crucial. For example, our dedicated teams in Rock and Port Isaac provide full-service property management, covering bookings, administration, changeovers and maintenance to deliver a seamless letting experience.

A strong national marketing presence further enhances bookings. We invest over £35 million annually, utilising platforms like Booking.com, dynamic pricing and intuitive booking software. Additionally, support for local charities and initiatives strengthens community ties. Superb property care, combined with outstanding booking and income levels… we believe it’s the dream combination.

For a free, no-obligation income appraisal, owners can contact the New Property Team using the information below.

JOHN BRAY CORNISH HOLIDAYS
01208 228910
lettings@johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk
www.johnbraycornishholidays.co.uk