MASTER THE SHORT-TERM LET

The company you choose will give plenty of advice, but the basics you will need to get right are excellent photographs of your home, a good host profile and a listing – which you can usually set up yourself.

According to Airbnb, guests are most persuaded by images, so make sure yours are clear and well-lit. Consider commissioning a local photographer for an hour or two, which could make all the difference.

When it comes to the listing, focus on your home’s best features and what makes it special – but be honest. Your host profile needs to show you are trustworthy and authentic, so tell people a few things about yourself. When it comes to pricing, Plum Guide advises looking at comparable listings to help you set the right amount.

Check the local rules

Cities can vary in terms of how long you can rent out your home legally or for tax purposes, so be sure to check the rules for your area before taking the plunge. In Greater London, for example, you can only rent your property out for 90 days a year, so bear this in mind when calculating your expected income and organising bookings.

Insurance

The boom in short-term lets has seen the rise of insurance companies dedicated to the sector. One such is Guard Hog, which can help to make sure you are covered for the right things as standard, such as deliberate and accidental damage, theft or public liability, as well as offering services for screening potential guests.

Rent a Room scheme

Under the Government’s Rent a Room scheme, you can earn £7,500 tax-free each year from letting a spare room or your whole home if it is your main residence (halved if you are letting jointly). Be sure to check the terms of your mortgage/rental contract or contents insurance.

Getting your home guest-ready

According to Plum Guide, good communication, a great sleep and a clean home are must-haves for guests – but the finishing touches are what make it special.

Catherine Banner advises stocking up on basics (oil, coffee, bin bags), leaving space in wardrobes and recording instructional videos for guests. Jane Eustace says putting away valuables or anything you don’t want people to use will give you peace of mind, while a final walkthrough will help spot anything you may have forgotten. Thoughtful touches, such as a bottle of wine or flowers, will make for a memorable stay.

What to do with your pets

Catherine and Rod Banner’s three dogs are looked after by their cleaner when they are away. However, there is an abundance of pet-sitting apps and online services to choose from. In some cases, hosts of holiday lets factor in guests looking after their pets as part of the listing.

House swapping vs letting

One of the advantages of home swapping over short-term lets is the value, allowing you to stay in homes that could go for hundreds of pounds a night on letting sites for just the cost of your membership.