‘Our business is struggling’

Emma Tapping, 36, runs a family holiday home, but is finding the unsteady income tough

“Last year my partner James and I were paying £950 a month in rent and struggling on one income, so we decided to take over a relative’s empty holiday cottage on the Isle of Man, do it up and rent it out. James left his job as a labourer and we uprooted our children, Mia, 14, Ella, nine, and Tatun, two. We spent £2,000 renovating the place and we now live in the house next door for £500 per month in rent. Six weeks ago we also spent £1,500 setting up an e-business where we recommend reputable tradesmen to renovators and get 10 per cent of any job. It’s new so we haven’t made a penny yet. We’ve been renting out the cottage for a year and take in around £2,400 a month, but sometimes it’s empty and so we have no income. We’re desperate for these ventures to work as we uprooted our family. Also, our spending on groceries seems to have surged. I shop in Tesco and try to go for offers, but we’re spending £600 per month! How can I cut back and drum up more business?” SARAH’S 3-POINT PLAN 1) PRIORITISE THE COTTAGE. Ask guests to leave reviews on Tripadvisor to encourage more interest. Also advertise on more than one site, like Airbnb and Love Cottages – there may be a charge, but the exposure should result in more bookings. During peak times, Emma should try to save earnings for slower months, and when business is quiet, she can offer last-minute discounts, special offers and themed stays. 2) BE MORE FLEXIBLE. The e-business is a good idea, but it would help if James carried on doing some work as a labourer alongside it. It will increase income and he’ll be making contacts and meeting potential local customers. They may also benefit from taking an online course in digital marketing once some money is coming in – visit www.reed.co.uk for info. 3)SLASH SPENDING. Emma needs to cut back on her food bill. Plan weekly meals, make a list and stick to it to avoid impulse buys, and compare prices on mysupermarket.co.uk to get the best deals. She could also reduce beauty spends by visiting blogs like Makeupsavvy. co.uk for bargain beauty tips.