Casevacanze.it has compiled a list of the ten most important things to consider for anyone looking to open a holiday home and invest in this type of accommodation.
10 Things You Should Know Before Opening a Holiday Home
1 Holiday Home: Bureaucracy
The first step to renting out a property is to check with your local council about the regulations in your specific area. While tourist rentals are governed by national law, Regions, Provinces and Municipalities may have their own additional rules that must also be respected. Renting a home as a holiday property is not considered a business activity, meaning you do not need to open a VAT number. However, you are required to keep a record of your guests for the State Police, registering through the official portal and submitting guest names within 24 hours of their arrival.
2 Flat-Rate Tax Scheme
Current regulations allow owners to choose between the flat-rate (cedolare secca) tax regime and regular income tax (Irpef). It is advisable to consult your tax advisor to determine the best solution for your case.
3 Tourist Tax
Each municipality may impose a tourist tax for stays under 30 days. It’s important to check the rules with your local authority so you can comply and, if required, apply the necessary fees to your guests.
4 Online Promotion
Eighty percent of holiday home bookings happen online, making it essential to advertise your property on the web. Having a presence on major travel portals is necessary to allow tourists from all over the world to find your accommodation. Be sure to keep your availability calendar updated across all platforms to avoid double bookings or misunderstandings with guests. FullPress Agency, publisher of FullTravel.it, specializes in the promotion of hospitality businesses and holiday homes.
5 Transparent Rates
To provide a consistent and reliable service, set your prices at the start of the year, taking into account the high and low seasons in your area. Make sure your rates are the same on all booking platforms. If you’re doing this for the first time, it’s wise to check prices from similar properties nearby or with similar features, so you remain competitive with the market.
6 It Requires Ongoing Commitment
Managing a holiday home can be more demanding than handling a long-term rental. Each guest needs to be welcomed and checked out, provided with all essential stay information, and you must be available in case of issues or emergencies. At the start, every owner should decide how much time they can dedicate to their holiday home and assess whether it’s necessary to hire someone to manage the logistics.
7 Maintenance
Guests appreciate a property that feels like home, so it should always be comfortable and well-maintained. Everything from working taps to the boiler must be in good order, along with amenities holidaymakers need: pots, dishes, towels, toilet paper and bed linens are just some of the essentials your guests expect to find. Don’t overlook these details!
8 Condominium Regulations
If your holiday home is in a building with other residents, it’s best to print out a summary of key condo rules (preferably in several languages) for incoming guests. Include rules around quiet hours, pet policies, care of communal spaces, and waste sorting to ensure everyone is informed.
9 Tourist Information for Guests
What really elevates a guest’s stay is your willingness to provide local tips and information. Sharing details about festivals, events, points of interest, recommended restaurants and nightlife gives guests a richer and more enjoyable experience.
10 Always Say Thank You
Every booking is a sign of trust from your guests. Leaving a small gift and a thank-you note is always appreciated and a smart way to encourage repeat visits. Sweets, local products or a simple card are thoughtful gestures any traveler will remember.
