Looking for Holiday Home Success?

Cornish Cottage Holidays’ Marketing Manager Emily Mercer explains how self-catering properties have huge potential to thrive in 2025.

For many holiday home owners in Cornwall, their property is more than just a retreat – it’s a valuable business. Making the most of that business and maintaining its appeal in 2025 requires insight and attention to detail.

As Emily explains, “At Cornish Cottage Holidays, we work to maximise bookings and income for our 800+ owners while delivering bespoke property management services. Each January, we analyse data from our national parent company, Sykes Holiday Cottages, to produce our Market Insights Report. This report offers a clear picture of the holiday letting market in Cornwall, based on booking trends, consumer behaviour and industry insights. Crucially, it also provides practical advice for owners looking to enhance their property’s appeal.

“One major trend in our latest report is the rising demand for shorter stays. In 2024, our average stay length dropped to 5.68 nights from 6.14 the previous year, with 24% of bookings for three- to five-night stays. Owners who accept short breaks can see substantial revenue growth – potentially earning 178% of a standard weekly rate if two short stays replace a single week-long booking.

“Allowing pets is another easy win. Pet-friendly properties secure 2.5 more bookings and earn 18% more revenue on average. Sustainability also matters: 65% of UK travellers prefer accommodation with eco-certification. Installing an EV charger could set your property apart – currently, only 5% of our listings offer this.

“Last-minute bookings have become the norm. In August 2024, 2% of all Cornwall bookings were made between 4pm the day before and noon on the arrival day. Ensuring your property remains bookable until the last moment can significantly boost income.

“With demand still strong but bookings made later, working with a well-marketed agency like ours gives owners an edge. We use partner sites, flexible cancellation policies and low deposit options to drive bookings – funded entirely by us, with no risk to you.”

For a free copy of the Cornish Cottage Holidays 2025 Market Insights Report or to discuss letting your holiday home, contact their team today.

CORNISH COTTAGE HOLIDAYS
9a, Barncoose Gateway Park,
Barncoose, Redruth
TR15 3RQ
www.cornishcottageholidays.co.uk