Owners Prospectus
Making the Right Choice
2010 marks the launch of our regionally based letting agency Devonshire Cottage Holidays, and we are now looking for new owners to join our group.
Devonshire Cottage Holidays is a new company, branching from the family owned and run Cornish Cottage Holidays, with over 40 years of experience in Holiday Letting.
As a Devonshire Cottage Holidays owner you will benefit from being part of a team which has enjoyed decades of successful experience. Our experienced staff are passionate about what they do and our focus is on the long term needs and goals of our owners whilst building lasting relationships with our guests. Our mantra is today the same as it was 40 years ago - our aim is to exceed the expectations of our owners and guests.
Whether you own or are looking to acquire a holiday home in Devon, or indeed just want a fresh look at what another agent can offer - Devonshire Cottage Holidays is on hand to assist you through every aspect of letting your holiday property.
Marketing your property
A holiday home represents a huge investment and we understand how important it is to get the very best return from your asset.
Together we will decide a strategy which ensures that your property grabs the attention of a prospective guest. Your property will be professionally dressed and photographed and we will take time to consult with you on the unique aspects of your holiday home.
Your property will be introduced on our website with a bespoke online campaign, right through from careful naming of photographs to the broad content of the description; we will be looking at ways to tune your property toward search engine visibility.
Our online marketing campaign is also backed up with targeted traditional media and PR as we recognise there is still great value in selective advertising.
Most importantly: We keep in touch with our customers. With an established and constantly growing customer database, we recognise the value of customer loyalty. Through regular promotions, monthly newsletters and priority advance bookings you can be assured of maximum repeat business for your property.
Finances
We believe in being open and that is why we do not hide away our commission rate of 20% plus VAT in the small print. We have a nominal registration fee of sixty pounds and there are NO OTHER FEES, hidden or otherwise.
You will be paid every month in which a deposit has been taken or a holiday has completed, ensuring regular cash flow throughout your letting season.
When a booking has been confirmed to you, we guarantee payment even if the guest cancels the booking - no additional fees or charges. The risk falls to us to rebook the holiday. Your property consultant will work with you to provide a comprehensive income projection. It would be great if we could visit your property to give you an accurate appraisal, however we are happy to give consultative advice based on estate agents details.
A successful property
Like any other business, the more effort that you make, the larger your rewards will be. There are County hot spots and trends that can affect the demand for a property. If your current marketing solution is not meeting your expectations then we will give you honest feedback on what we think you could be achieving and how we can work together to reach new targets.
Throughout the entire process of building our relationship we will work to agreed standards both in the level of service you receive from us and in the standards that you provide in your holiday home. We will advise you what is essential to provide for your guest and what is desirable.
Your property will be graded based on our Diamond system and we will continue to carry out our appraisals on an annual basis. You may have many questions ranging from towels and bedding to heating and welcome trays, again we will work with you ensuring that you understand what the requirements are and what will be expected by your guests.
Many of our owners manage and clean their own properties. For the remainder,
we can facilitate cleaning management. Through a network of trusted local caretaking companies. Prices for caretaking services and vary however we will advise you on the market value and the level of service you should expect to receive.
Legislation
Because guests' safety is so important we have worked to produce a thorough view of what you will need to do to ensure compliance.
Legal requirements and legislation need not create barriers but they do need to be understood and adhered to. You will need to provide various certificates and assurances to guests including a fire risk assessment. Regular electrical appliance tests, Gas Safe certification, and public liability insurance. We will assist you throughout the process of getting your property comprehensively safe for your guests.
The Next Step
It is never too early to get third party advice, especially when it is free! What you decide to do now may have a huge impact on your profitability and success later. We will provide you with an impartial and objective service. We won't be pushy but we will be passionate about your property, your requirements and what we think will work best for you.
You can order an Owner Information Pack by completing the form found 'here'
Or if you would like to discuss any aspect of letting your property, please contact Kris on 01326 555925 or email: kris@devonshirecottageholidays.co.uk
