So, your Middlesbrough holiday let isn’t exactly raking it in. You’ve tried the usual stuff, but bookings are… meh. Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Lots of folks run short-term rentals and feel stuck in that “why isn’t anyone booking?” rut. The good news? There are practical ways to fix it, and yes, even small tweaks can make a big difference this year. Let’s get into it.
1. Give Your Online Listings a Fresh Look
Most people scroll through listings in seconds. If yours looks dull, you’re toast.
Quick wins:
- Photos matter more than you think: Bright, clean, sharp images. Even a decent phone camera works if you use daylight and tidy every corner. No clutter, please.
- Descriptions that actually tell a story: Say what makes your place stand out. “Cosy garden,” “river views,” or “minutes from the town centre.” Skip the fluff, guests can tell.
- Titles and keywords that hit the mark: Think like a guest. “Pet-friendly flat near Middlesbrough train station” is better than “Lovely flat with nice features.” Specific beats vague every time.
Basically, your listing is your first impression. Nail it or scroll past.
2. Price It Right
Too high, and people click away. Too low, and you’re losing cash. It’s a balancing act.
Smart pricing tips:
- Check your competition: Look at similar properties and tweak your rates. Off-season? Offer discounts. School holidays? Prices can creep up a bit.
- Dynamic pricing tools: Airbnb can adjust rates automatically, but if you like hands-on, manual tweaks work too.
- Perks that justify extra: Free parking, welcome snacks, early check-in… little things that make a guest feel like they’re getting more bang for their buck.
Even shifting by £10–£15 a night can make a noticeable difference.
3. Make Your Property Irresistible
Guests remember comfort. They also notice small touches.
Simple improvements:
- Fresh bedding, fluffy towels, clean spaces. Obvious but vital.
- Regional guidebooks, eccentric maps, or advice on secret locations in Middlesbrough. Visitors really appreciate that inside scoop.
- Modern appliances, a smart TV, maybe even a coffee machine. Little things make stays feel special.
Better reviews follow better experiences, and bookings follow better reviews. Circle complete.
4. Market Outside the Usual Sites
Don’t just rely on Airbnb or Booking.com. Spread your net.
Ideas that actually work:
- Social media presence: Quick Instagram snaps or short videos of your property. Makes it feel real, not just a listing.
- Local collaborations: Cafes, attractions, or event organisers might recommend your place to visitors. Small network, big payoff.
- Email your past guests: Offer a small discount for returning. People love feeling remembered.
Marketing doesn’t need to be rocket science. Steady, small efforts win.
5. Stay Legal and Stress-Free
Nothing kills bookings faster than guests feeling unsure about rules or safety.
Middlesbrough checklist:
- Register your property if required. Councils do check.
- Keep insurance updated. Public liability, building cover—the works.
- Declare income for HMRC properly. A simple ledger can save headaches.
When guests see a well-managed, professional property, they feel safe. That equals bookings.
Quick Table: Small Tweaks, Big Results
| Strategy | Quick Win | Possible Impact |
| Refresh listing | New photos + clear keywords | More views, more clicks |
| Adjust pricing | Seasonal tweaks | Higher occupancy |
| Upgrade property | Towels, bedding, small touches | Better reviews |
| Market wider | Social media + local links | Wider reach |
| Stay compliant | Registration + insurance | Guest confidence |
The Bottom Line
Getting your Middlesbrough holiday rental earning well doesn’t happen overnight. But a few smart moves, done consistently, can totally change the game. Little tweaks, more bookings, happier guests, and yes—more income.
If you’d rather skip the guesswork, call Sell House North East today on 01642 088037. We’ll show you exactly what’s possible.