Make Money with Cottages – Simple Steps to Boost Your Rental Income

If you own a cottage in Lancashire, you already have a ready‑made holiday spot. The question is how to turn that charm into cash. The good news? You don’t need a big agency or a fancy marketing budget. A few practical moves can lift your earnings fast.

First, look at what you’re charging now. Compare your price to similar cottages on local sites. If you’re undercutting the market, you’re leaving money on the table. If you’re too high, you might be scaring guests away. Aim for a sweet spot – a rate that feels fair for the space and still leaves room for profit.

Rent Directly to Cut Out the Middleman

Booking platforms take 10‑20 % of every reservation. That cut adds up quickly. By promoting your cottage on a simple website or using social media, you can invite guests to book straight with you. Collect their email, send a friendly confirmation, and ask for a small deposit. Direct bookings also let you build a repeat‑guest list, which means fewer empty weeks.

To make direct booking easy, create a clear photo gallery, a short description, and a calendar that shows availability in real time. Tools like calendar widgets are free and sync with most phone calendars, so you won’t double‑book. When guests see a smooth, trustworthy booking process, they’re more likely to choose you over a large site.

Add Value and Charge More

Guests love extra touches that don’t cost you much. A basket of locally sourced tea, a guide to nearby walks, or a set of board games can turn an average stay into a memorable one. Highlight these perks in your listing – they justify a higher nightly rate.

Another easy upgrade is offering optional add‑ons. Charge a small fee for extra clean‑ups, early check‑in, or a stocked fridge. Because the cost to you is low, the profit margin stays high. Just list the prices clearly so there are no surprises.

Seasonal pricing also helps. During school holidays or local festivals, raise the rate a bit. In slower months, offer a discount for longer stays – a week‑long booking at a modest discount still brings in more revenue than a few short stays.

Finally, ask for reviews after each stay. Positive feedback boosts credibility and can increase bookings without any extra spend. A quick thank‑you email with a link to leave a review does the trick.

By renting directly, adding small value‑adds, and pricing smartly, you can turn a cozy Lancashire cottage into a reliable income stream. Start with one change today, watch the bookings grow, and enjoy the extra cash that comes with it.