Rates vary greatly according to the season, the region, and the size and quality of a property.

Most people who let year round have low, mid- and high season rates. The high season usually includes the months of July and August and possibly the first two weeks of September. Mid-season usually comprises June, late September and October, and the Easter and Christmas/New Year periods, when rents are around 25 per cent lower than the high season. The rest of the year is classed as the low season. During the low season, which may extend from October to May, rates are usually up to 50 per cent lower than the high season.

Note that rates usually include linen, gas and electricity, although electricity and heating (e.g. gas bottles) are usually charged separately for long lets in winter.

To get an idea of the rent you can charge, simply ring a few letting agencies and ask them what it would cost to rent a property such as yours at the time of year you plan to let it. They’re likely to quote the highest possible rent, so this should be adjusted as appropriate. You should also check advertisements.

Increasing Rental Income

Rental income can be increased outside high season by offering special interest or package holidays – which can be organised in conjunction with local businesses or tour operators – to broaden the appeal and cater for larger parties. These may include:

• Activity holidays, such as golf, tennis, cycling or hiking;
• Cooking, gastronomy and wine tours/tasting;
• Arts and crafts such as painting, sculpture, photography and writing courses.

You don’t need to be an expert or conduct courses yourself, but can employ someone to do it for you.