While vacation homes for rent may appear to be the same, there is more to them than meets the eye. They always have a tale to tell, from trips filled with thrilling outdoor activities and rustic living to relaxing retreats. Check out these many sorts of private luxury villas that provide the ideal setting for your holiday story.
SaffronStays AsanjA Titaly + Dragonfly, Murbad
Country Style Farmhouses
Farmhouses on acres of the lush countryside are ideal for reconnecting with nature. These largely rustic-style villas with spacious rooms are miles away from the hustle and bustle of city life. They allow visitors to enjoy fresh air, beautiful fields, the cold waters of rivers and lakes, and mouth-watering farm-to-table experiences. Families who enjoy nature will appreciate actual farm activities such as sampling guavas and mangoes straight from the trees at SaffronStays Amrai By The River, Pawna or helping to milk the local cows at SaffronStays SanvinaFarm, Karjat.
Quaint Cottages
The charming cottages such as SaffronStays Fourest, Bhimtal and SaffronStays Monarch Manor, Manali provide a lovely blend of comfort and warmth. Imagine enjoying a vacation with home’s conveniences, handmade local cuisine and a dash of the unusual. SaffronStays makes sure you leave here with plenty of tales to share with your loved ones, whether you choose a private villa for a romantic weekend or a cluster of close-by cottages for a fun family trip. These villas are perfect for cosy, seaside getaways with friends or even a fun workation that combines work and pleasure with coworkers.
Contemporary Houses
Modern vacation houses have fashionable interiors and modern aesthetics while feeling comfy and private. The five-star interiors of luxury villas like SaffronStays Glistening Waters & Spa, Nashik or SaffronStays Ahilya Waters By Kosha Villas, Pawna will envelop you in comfort, and the lush surroundings will give you an immersive experience. You may tell your friends that by relaxing in baths, unwinding in plushly cushioned recliners and sipping wine under a gorgeous sunset, you experienced genuine luxury here. These are ideal for romantic getaways for two or small families seeking some adventure, bird viewing and climbing.
Private Estates & Plantations
If you desire larger residences and more room, private estates are your best choice. In homes such as SaffronStays Foresta By The Lake, Kamshet and SaffronStays Mirissa, Socorro, North Goa, you get the neighbourhood in addition to the actual vacation property. Take a moment to picture yourself unwinding at a lakeside resort with orchards, a cricket field and a pool with a view and a clear sky. Or you might choose a home with gorgeous ficus, mango and eucalyptus trees that shade the yard and vibrant seating areas that encourage fantastic bonding moments and memories. Visitors to these villas have a lot to choose from, and every activity, whether a stroll through an orchard or a game of cricket, makes for a memorable holiday tale to share with loved ones.
Heritage Villas
Villas are ones with large properties and plenty of facilities. They can accommodate large groups and are situated away from busy areas. The classic SaffronStays Calamondinn Bungalow, Coorg and SaffronStays Crescent Bay, Palshet offers an old-world charm for those seeking seclusion. You can enjoy local cuisine created with herbs, honey and milk that are all farmed locally while also exploring the nearby coffee plantation and beekeeping facilities!
These villas are not only spacious and well-decorated within but also have amazing views that encourage interaction and stronger relationships. These private multi-bedroom villas are quiet and clean, with settings designed to provide you with the most pleasing vacation experience imaginable!
Each vacation home type evokes a different holiday experience and set of tales; now that you’re familiar with them, you can pick the best match. You can make one of our luxury villas your personal holiday heaven for a few days, with SaffronStays. Book today to ensure some great new memories!
Finding someone to partner for a business with is one of the most challenging choices one needs to make. It is even more complex and critical in the realty world as the stakes are high here.
In the hospitality sector, your decision to identify a management partner can make or break the entire experience for you. Not to mention the fact that this decision can mean the difference between huge profits or gut-wrenching losses.
So how do you choose the right partner?
In the vacation rental business specifically, you need someone who is accessible, willing to help you in tight situations, and can align the guests your property deserves. Of all these characteristics, judging if a vacation rental partner is accessible to you or not before beginning to work with them is indeed a tricky one.
Here is a roadmap you could follow to ensure your rental partner is available for your home and you.
Judging Your Vacation Rental Partner On Accessibility
You may feel that accessibility is a vague term, and we agree entirely with that. But the reality is that you can break it down into an actionable plan which may guide you towards better negotiations.
● Is it their 24×7 business?
Accessibility and professionalism go hand in hand. When you work with a vacation rental partner who is not pursuing it as their primary profession or has a professional outlook on the business, your partnership will suffer. Since this is not their bread and butter business, they will be unable to dedicate the required time to your vacation rental home. They will not be accessible to you 24×7 or be able to help you out during times of need.
So, if you want to know if your vacation rental partner will be accessible, check on their operating hours and understand how serious they are about this venture. Do they have prior experience, and do they have a problem-solving framework in place?
At SaffronStays, managing vacation rentals is our everyday business, and we work day and night to deliver our best to our Home Owners.
● How often can you connect with them?
Most of us have dealt with partners who promise 24×7 connectivity but fail to do so when required. And often, by the time you connect with them, it is either too late, or you are frustrated as they were unable when it was critical. So, a good measure of accessibility is checking how often you can actually connect with the vacation rental partner. Are they available to you as promised and at least within working hours? Is there a system to raise urgent queries, and how soon do they resolve them?
An accessible vacation rental partner will ensure that they have a system to record your queries and for you to escalate the issues. Are there dedicated teams to address specific questions so that there is a niche-based service? SaffronStays provides access to specialised teams to address our clients’ concerns.
● Do you have a dedicated team member to work with?
Lastly, no one wants to get stuck with a generic helpline or a customer care service where you always speak to different people. That is why always work with a business that has a dedicated account manager or team to work with you. This way, you never have to be worried if your concerns are addressed or if the requirements you put forth in the initial
stages are in place or not.
At SaffronStays, we have seen that having a dedicated account manager helps the Home Owners have a peaceful and hassle-free interaction. We see fewer complaints and the vacation rentals run more smoothly than ever.
Like what you see about SaffronStays working model? Connect with us at
Everyone assumes real estate investments are just transactional, but that cannot be any further from the truth. When someone picks a property to invest in, they consider many factors and only invest if they can see themselves using it one day.
In India, the trend of investing in vacation homes is slowly picking up, not just for personal use but for investment too. People are finally coming around to the fact that long-term vacation rentals are here to stay and you can make a good ROI from this industry. But most of them also want to preserve the property well to enjoy it for personal use again.
So how do you ensure that your vacation home fetches a good return over the years while being in good enough shape for you to enjoy it later? By picking the best vacation rental partner possible.
It is definitely harder than it sounds, and that is why the SaffronStays team brings you their insights on picking the right vacation rental partner.
3 things to consider when you choose your vacation rental partner
The right vacation rental partner can help you skyrocket the earnings from your investment and also ensure your home gets the love it deserves. Property management and being a Home Owner can usually be a challenging job, but not if you have the right partner.
So how do you pick the right one?
1. Compatibility with your goals
Yes, this is the first step. When you choose a vacation rental partner, the pros and cons can be overwhelming. Every major operator has their own strength and expertise, so how do you pick one?
As a Home Owner, you have to put yourself first and understand what you want your property to be in the vacation rental business? Is it a property for teenagers to bunk in, or are you looking for exclusive luxury clientele?
Does the vacation rental partner have expertise with the kind of clients you want to attract? Do they know how to maintain homes similar to yours? And finally, are they the kind of brand you want to associate your home with?
Compatibility is important. Only if you have the same goals in mind, can the partnership be successful.
2. Location specific services
Usually, vacation homes succeed because they are in the right place at the right time. The industry has a popular saying that real estate sometimes is just about location, location, and location.
Now we trust you are a smart Home Owner and have invested in the best location to get a good ROI. To make the best of this, you need a vacation rental partner who knows how to sell in that location.
The company should ideally know the best seasons, the best agents, and how to market for that particular location. That makes it easier to find customers and maintain a steady-state of revenue.
So, analyze if the rental partner knows this location by checking their past records in a particular geographical location.
3. Established brand
Small businesses are great, but in the vacation rental business, experience is good. This is an industry where you need people who know what to do and get it done. Protect your investment, so looking for established brands to partner with is a good idea.
But what to look for in a brand to know if they are the right fit?
Check social proof on online platforms to see what guests and other Home Owners have to say about them. Check social media groups and forums to dig deep. Guest experience counts too because it shows the brand’s capabilities.
Understand from them what their marketing strategies are. Do they have a dedicated team in place to bring in leads and convert them? Will they take care of listings too? Pick a team that has a plan in place for end-to-end services.
Most importantly, what are their property maintenance credentials? You need someone interested in property upkeep too and has an in-house team for accountability.
What are their financial commitments in case of payment defaults, damages, and so on? A transparent term will tell you all this upfront.
You will be handing over your home to this vacation rental partner, so take the time for a thorough check.
Looking for a trusted and transparent vacation rental partner? Connect with us at partner@saffronstays.com, and our team will be happy to assist you ahead.
The Indian real estate industry is perplexing for Home Owners right now. On paper, it looks like a seller’s market with property management firms, high-paying renters, and hospitality firms knocking on their door all day, literally! But, no one seems to be becoming any richer, new companies are going belly up, and the market is just not stabilizing.
So what is a Home Owner to do? What are their options in making the best choice for their property – in the long term and short term?
We know the turmoil you are in, and that is why SaffronStays is happy to step in and bust some myths about the market – that taking minimum guarantees is the best choice you can make in a fluctuating real estate market.
If you are a Home Owner and looking to rent out your property, you may have heard the term ‘Minimum Guarantee’ crop up in various discussions. What does it really mean, and why are we suggesting that is not the best road to take?
What does Minimum Guarantee mean in the long-term vacation rental business?
Before we tell you why you should not opt for it, let us understand this term. When an operator or a property management firm comes to secure your property to sublet, they assure you a minimum guarantee. Usually, it is just one part of the whole financial deal.
This means that no matter what happens in the market, you will get an assured sum. Usually, they offer this for the first few years claiming that the property needs to stabilise and they are protecting your interests.
“Minimum guarantee became the norm when large venture capitalists started pouring their money in hospitality startups to create supply. They hoped to build large brands with a large supply that will eventually generate enough demand to cater to the minimum guarantee requirements,” says Deven Parulekar, Founder, SaffronStays.
Since most Home Owners are apprehensive of market fluctuations and seasonal demand in the long-term vacation rental business, they take this deal.
This seems like a huge win: the property is in the hands of a seasoned team, you do not have to worry about demand generation, and there is money in the bank.
But is it really practical? What is the hidden text causing so much turmoil and uncertainty in the hospitality sector?
Pitfalls of Minimum Guarantee deals
While minimum guarantee deals look great on paper and like the ROI you deserve, there are a few issues with this proposition.
It creates a tussle between the operator’s welfare and the Home Owner’s interests
When hospitality startups or even property management firms want to expand aggressively with multiple minimum guarantee deals in their kitty, it makes them a little desperate. The brands scramble to ensure that they can meet their financial commitments instead of working for your welfare.
For example, brands that have too many properties in a particular area distribute the demand in a way to fulfil their minimum guarantee commitments. So, this means that the minimum guarantee becomes the most you will ever earn because the operator is not even working on filling your property.
It exploits the property
Minimum guarantee is a deal characteristic of the hotel industry. And it makes sense there because a good operator can host corporate events, marriages, and offer bulk corporate deals to make ends meet.
But a home deserves a little more nuanced approach to maintain its charm and keep it running for longer. When you enter a minimum guarantee deal like a hotel, you open your home to exploitation, damages, and reducing valuation rates.
Minimum guarantee deals do not fit the luxury segment
When you want your home to be a luxurious long term vacation home, you need a team that worries about its long-term upkeep, the clientele they bring in, and their ability to treat it well. If you have a minimum guarantee deal in place, the operator is most likely to care about quantity rather than quality.
This means your home will not be the luxury vacation rental you want it to be catering to a discerning clientele. And you are most likely to be lost in the crowd and not survive long term either.
Minimum guarantee is not sustainable
The luxury vacation rental business is seasonal but pays well if you position it right and work on it during the peak season. But what happens in minimum guarantee deals is that the operator is under pressure to deliver throughout the year. This makes it an unsustainable business and may even drive the operator into losses. You want an operator who can stick with you for the long term, not someone who makes promises they can’t fulfil.
So, all in all, minimum guarantee deals have to be seen as the lose-lose deals they are. Neither can the operator work on delivering quality, nor does the home get the attention and love it deserves.
What can you do instead?
Now comes the question – what can Home Owners do instead? What is a good way to lease their luxury properties for long-term vacation rentals?
We strongly recommend entering into a lease agreement with the operators instead of working on minimum guarantees. Even though this will be less than the touted minimum guarantee, it delivers on your ROI expectations fairly and lets them focus on quality instead of running behind quantity.
This way, you have an assured income, a strong lease agreement, a team to maintain the home, and the guarantee that your home is protected against exploitation.
And if you are looking for a team to work with you on this, reach out to partner@saffronstays.com. We would be happy to assist you.
Travelling and local tourism is easily the backbone of our country’s economy. And, why would it not be when every other town is scenic and worth visiting over and over? Our unique terrain and rich heritage make exploring India a delight for everyone.
But there was a minor hiccup in this process. The state of accommodations and the lack of managed stays had been preventing people from exploring all the remote corners of India. However, these are now problems of the past, with short-term vacation rental homes and managed stays becoming more accessible than ever.
Tourists and travellers do not have to settle for any substandard hotel room, when they have an abundant choice of stays.
Add the apprehension of staying in random hotel rooms with concerns of cleanliness and sanitation, managed stays for private and entertaining holidays are becoming the norm.
The changing Era of Vacation Rentals
Before we dive into what changed in vacation rentals, we have to understand the transformation in the mindset of an average traveller since the COVID-19 pandemic.
It has become about spending quality time with friends, family, colleagues, or indulging in alone time. In the last two years, we have people investing more in relationship building during vacations than chasing a milestone or travel checklist.
Staycations to get away from the boredom of WFH life and reconnect with colleagues they have not seen in a while, are fast becoming the norm too.
So it is no surprise that the billion dollar Indian vacation rental industry is growing faster in the homestays, cottages, private homes, and managed stays sector than the hotel sector.
What can a Home Owner expect from this new era?
When India’s hospitality sector boomed a few years ago with managed stays and private residences going as short term vacation rentals, investment in this sector went up as well. Many Home Owners invested in properties in offbeat and tourist-friendly locations that can work as vacation rentals.
Yes, the COVID-19 pandemic did impact this sector quite a bit. But, as the SaffronStays’ homeowners will tell you, the recovery for managed stays has been quite quicker and stronger than the typical hotel industry.
But we can’t deny that the times are changing and the new era of vacation rentals is here.
So what can homeowners look to invest or expect from this industry?
Well, for starters, as the apprehension around travel during the COVID-19 pandemic settles down, you can expect a revival in demand. We are already seeing the signs for it.
You can expect that the travelers will flock to easily accessible, well-maintained, and modern homes to spend their vacation days in, instead of a hotel room. This means that this time calls for strategic investments in these homes right about now.
The plug and play model will also evolve into the managed stays model where travelers expect the vibe of a homestay but the convenience of a hotel. Rustic homes with a cook and WiFi basically. So, investments here are also in order.
What does a guest look for in vacation rentals?
You can only manage the supply side the right way when you know what the demand is for.
So let us take a look at what will a guest or traveller’s priority be in the new era of vacation rentals?
Obviously, as per the trends we just discussed, the needs now go beyond just a place to stay and some decent facilities. They are looking for places that are safe and allow them to experience a blissful vacation, if not more.
For starters, the property’s location is very important. While offbeat getaways are becoming popular, connectivity is an important factor as well. Secluded properties that offer privacy, but also offer basic connectivity will work the best. If there are accessibility issues, guests expect the property owner or managing firm to assist.
When we speak of experience, we do not mean just the rooms. Everything about the property matters. In the era of Instagram and consistent travel vlogging, you have to work on some vanity metrics too. Well maintained property, beautiful grounds, gardens, and a view can boost the value of the vacation rental.
Last but definitely not least, the properties must be clean to a fault. The pandemic has heightened everyone’s views on cleanliness and contamination, so ensure you have this down to a pat.
Are you interested in being a part of the new era of vacation rentals, but are not sure how to begin? Connect with the Saffronstays team, and we would be happy to help you.
Renting out your second house as a vacation home is a big decision. And like any big decision, you need to think about a hundred different things before casting the die. The number of factors to consider in this case can often be overwhelming, but SaffronStays is here to help you out. We’ve narrowed it down to 8 things you need to know before renting out your holiday home. Trust us, it’s easier than it looks!
1. Expenses precede profits
Yes, renting out your home can be a lucrative source of income. But in the beginning, it requires a hefty investment. Consider maintenance costs, utility bills, staff salaries, insurance payments, advertising costs and prevailing tax laws. So while allotting a certain portion of your finances towards the holiday home, ensure that you have enough savings to sustain yourself until the business takes off.
2. Remodeling is worth the cost
A holiday home is different from a regular home. You want to give your guests the best vacation vibes and that calls for some preparation. From the colour of the walls and furnishings, to basic necessities like toiletries and cooking appliances, to entertainment amenities like board games and bikes, you should rent out a holiday home that exudes a holiday atmosphere. Make it so that guests not only have a good time but also want to return!
3. Locality is an important selling point
Guests on holiday are unlikely to stay indoors all the time. So it’s best to get to know the surrounding area as well as you can. This way, you can save your guests a lot of Google searching and instead offer them a list of the top nearby restaurants, adventure sports or any other attractive features. In fact, this is a great way to sell your house as not just a rental but a complete holiday package!
4. Understanding your guests is key
Before you start marketing your house, understand what kind of guests will appreciate it. Senior citizens favour homes without a lot of stairs. Families with small children prefer spacious homes with amenities to keep the kids entertained. Couples prioritise privacy and look for romantic nooks like hot tubs. Understanding which guests will enjoy your home will help you reach out to the right people.
5. Rental agreements exist to protect you
As you go through the process of renting out a holiday home to total strangers, you want to feel safe. The easiest way to do this is to ensure your rental agreement covers all kinds of situations. It will have your back in case of any misunderstandings of check-in and check-out dates, extra payable services, or even damaged property. So invest time and money in a tight, legal agreement and secure your future.
6. You need to be a people person
Communication is key when it comes to giving guests a hassle-free experience. This includes promoting your home to potential guests, getting all the paperwork done smoothly and informing them of all the house rules. And at the same time, you must cater to their needs and keep things as easy as possible. So if you’re serious about renting out a holiday home, it’s time to turn up the charm!
SaffronStays Forest Trails, Pawna
7. Difficult tenants are a possibility
While most of your guests will come and go with ease, there could be that one odd guest who will stir up some trouble. But there’s no need to worry since there are several ways to be prepared. Background checks help weed out unsuitable persons but if that is not an option, a comprehensive tenancy agreement and charging a security deposit will do the same. You can also keep a record of all valuable objects in the house as well as take out some insurance.
8. It’s time consuming
Last but not the least, you will need to invest as much time as money in this project. From redesigning your house to communicating with guests, every aspect of renting out a holiday home will require your time and attention. But if everything goes right, the result could pay you back tenfold!
Renting out your holiday home does come with a lot of responsibility. You not only need to be good at making your home guest-friendly but also adept at marketing it, and managing the logistics. But why not let SaffronStays take some weight off your shoulders? As an experienced partner in the field of vacation rentals, SaffronStays will manage your property with expertise and you can still reap all the benefits!
SaffronStays Fiesta, Nashik
Ready to start? Here are some tips on giving your guests the best experience.
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It’s very tempting to open up your vacation home for guests and set up a sweet source of income. But that income depends on guests not only choosing your home for a holiday but also having a great time there. Remember, you aren’t just giving them a place to stay but rather curating an experience. So use these 8 tips for holiday homes to provide your guests with the finest vacation!
1. Prioritise safety
SaffronStays Ambe Moha, Karjat
The overall safety of your holiday home should be your top priority! That includes everything from having sturdy door locks to following Covid-19 safety protocols. Keep the house free from fire hazards, cover loose wirings and inspect electrical appliances for any faults. Depending on the locality, add amenities to prepare for extreme weather conditions. Cover all your bases, so your guests can get a sound sleep at night and so can you!
2. Get high-quality furnishings
SaffronStays Horizon 360°, Mahabaleshwar
Your guests are going to expect their money’s worth. How do you give it to them? With high-quality furnishings like plush sofas, Instagram-worthy lighting, gorgeous dining areas, charming outdoor seating and memory foam mattresses that make them go wow. No penny pinching here. Give them a luxury filled holiday and it’s almost guaranteed that they will return someday.
3. Paint a visual picture
Kairos Athena, Karjat
Part of curating a holiday experience is making your rental visually appealing. Nobody wants to feel like they’re still at home, they want to feel transported. So, pick an idea and then bring it to life. Use soft pastel paints and light curtains to make your guests feel like they’re in the clouds. Or pick nautical wall hangings and deep blue hues to make them feel out at sea. Whisk them away to a place of dreams!
4. Offer a fun-filled package
SaffronStays Casa Manga, Karjat
Some people like lazing around on holidays, but most enjoy throwing themselves into a flurry of activity. So whether it’s a pool table, a swimming pool, or a disco room, load up your vacation rental with a bunch of exciting activities. This is one of those tips for holiday homes that will not only keep spirits high but encourage longer holidays. Plus, your guests will love having a range of options to choose from!
5. Top-notch food for every meal
SaffronStays Grand Mansion of Saipem Hills, Candolim, Goa
Three meals a day means that food makes up the majority of one’s holiday time, so it’s crucial that you get this right. In-house cooking services should cater to the majority of your guests, but also feature a variety to keep things exciting. Local delicacies are a must-have. Should the guests feel like it, they should have basic cooking facilities as well as a range of restaurants in and around the locality to order in!
6. Maximum privacy, minimum contact
SaffronStays One Tree Farm, Karjat
An important tip for a holiday home is to give your guests maximum privacy. The space should allow them to feel free to be themselves and let go of all their worries. Highly trained staff who approach only when needed and a quiet surrounding locality are a few ways to ensure this. You should also get the formalities out of the way at the beginning itself. The less you contact your guests, the more they will appreciate you.
7. Stay there once a year
SaffronStays Nadnanvan Estate, Tamil Nadu
The best way to craft a superb experience for your guests is to stay at the vacation home yourself, at least once a year. Putting yourself directly in the consumer’s shoes will enable you to find any gaps in your service and fill them, find any faults in the amenities and fix them. You’ll come across that loose handle or the broken toaster, which otherwise may have been overlooked.
8. Hire a middle man
SaffronStays Fiesta, Nashik
Hiring a middle man will make things very easy for you and your clients. Experienced middlemen can handle all the in-betweens from logistics and pricing to cleanliness and sanitisation. And they can do it with an expertise that only increases the value of your home. An expert vacation rental partner like SaffronStays can make sure that you are giving your guests only the finest service, while managing everything on behalf of you.
So there it is. Follow these 8 tips for holiday homes and yours will be ready to provide the ultimate vacation!
From a 17th Century Hunting Lodge to a Netflix Show – vacation rentals have had the most promising coming-of-age character arc.
Remember going to your father’s friend’s farmhouse in Khopoli during your summer vacations? Or using a relative’s home as a pitstop before you head to the hills or the beaches? I remember my parents hosting many such relatives in our tiny Mumbai apartment where we were the hosts, the travel guides, and the entertainers, too.
Vacations in the good ol’ days meant making the most of pre-existing assets. But as travel evolved and people started exploring more, so did the concept of accommodation. So how did vacation rentals really begin?
Old wine in a new bottle, vacation rentals were always around us. We just never realised their true potential or formalised them the way they have been now. We also didn’t know them by the same name. Almost a 400+-year-old segment, it has aged well, and how!
Heard of the famous Treaty of Versailles?
Palace De Versailles as shot in June 2010 (From Wikipedia: By King of Hearts – Own work, CC BY-SA 4.0)
Most of us may have,in our history textbooks. But have you heard of Palais De Versailles? Built by Henry the XIII, it was used as a hunting lodge in 1623-24, and is touted to have started the trend of vacation rentals. In 1631, they replaced the lodge with a small château. Simple times.
Oh! Where the Pope retires…
Ever wondered where the Pope would unwind centuries ago? Acquired by the Vatican in 1596, the Palace of Castel Gandolfo, which was of great significance during World War II, served as a summer residence and a vacation retreat for The Pope since the 1600s.
(We knew you were only thinking about YOUR next retreat.)
How about snail mail as your vacay planner?
Phone a friend toh bahut sunaa hai. But have you heard of ‘snail mail a friend’? In the 1800s, when you wanted to get away from the city, you’d snail mail your friends with vacation homes, asking if you could use it. This long, awkward silence got better in 1837 with the advent of the telegraph making it faster and easier for one to respond to such ‘friendly requests’.
As they ALL say, sharing is caring
Post World War II, folks in Europe drifted towards the concept of sharing vacation homes. They would jointly buy a vacation villa and use it exclusively for one of the 4 seasons. Each family got to enjoy a particular season to its fullest. However, only a few families would end up vacationing for the whole season so they thought of monetising it for the vacant periods. This was just the start of timeshare and vacation rental markets, the way we know them today. Similarly, in the 1950s, people in the USA started giving out their homes as vacation rentals by placing newspaper listings as they saw some value in capitalising on it.
Own a ‘piece’ of a home
Barnsdale Hall Hotel (UK), which function on the concept of timeshare Credit: By Steve F, CC BY-SA 2.0, Wikimedia
A little later – in the 1960s – the concept of timeshares or fractional ownership was introduced by a developer named Hapimag and his partner Dr. Guido Renggli who constructed a 13-unit resort in Switzerland. It not only brought the costs down but also ensured the space’s wear and tear was shared equally among all owners. Interestingly, the first timeshares strategy involved convincing travellers that buying a room in a resort was far cheaper than renting one out. The concept furthered and people started doing the same for condos.
The more popular the concept got, the more convenient it was for the developers to expand geographically. Since it was unregulated, it got easier to replicate the model. But owing to the quality of lodging, cheating, misleading promises and other dishonest activities, it became important to put some order to it. So, councils were formed, licensing was put into place, newer amenities were added and partnerships were forged. By 1985, The USA founded the Vacation Rental Management Association to put things in order. (37 years later, in India, a policy exclusively reserved for vacation rentals is in the process of being drafted.)
New-age short-term rentals
With the advent of the internet, Vacation Rentals By Owner (VRBO) was launched in 1995 for short-term rental bookings. Similar to the online booking platforms today, it allowed people to choose from a variety of homes that were managed by home owners. Booking.com, a Netherlands-based travel fare aggregator that provided a list of hotels and lodging options in 1996 followed suit. It was also the first in the business to advertise vacation rentals.
Around the same time, Craigslist, which started off as an email distribution list that featured local events, expanded into a classified ad website for jobs, housing, community services, and other such services. Soon, it started taking requests for sublets, short and long-term rentals.
Surfing but on the couch!
Couch Surfing – a social networking service and hospitality exchange service started in 2003
No, we aren’t talking about surfing the internet. As the travel industry evolved, people felt the need to connect with like-minded individuals and travel solo. This gave birth to couch surfing – a social networking service and hospitality exchange service that started in 2003. Hosts here do not charge for the stay; operating on the ‘paying after yourself’ concept, the guests volunteer in exchange for stay, and usually end these trips by gifting a memoir to their hosts. While some countries charge a subscription fee for security and verification, this turned out to be a starting point for experiential stays.
HomeAway from home…
In 2005, five different rental sites got together to develop a vacation rental marketplace – HomeAway. It operated via 50+ websites in several languages and gave customers an option to choose from cabins, condos, castles, villas, barns and farmhouses. After raising funds and expanding globally, it acquired VRBO.
Your BnB’s here – in formal attire.
While the market for vacation rentals was still niche in 2008, Airbnb, a San Francisco start-up, launched as an online marketplace for people to rent out rooms in their homes – probably one of the first companies to do so. Beautiful glasshouses, cosy dens, hillside chalets introduced people to never-lived-before experiences. Earlier meant for the experimental lot, this DIY concept was cost-effective and unique. It further enhanced the customers’ stay with Airbnb Experiences, where guests could participate in city tours, events, and classes to get up, close and personal with the destination and the locals.
Your alternatives are here!
By 2013, the above category widened, and people became more experimental. People started looking at these more affordable options with experiences different from a regular hotel. BnBs gave rise to alternative accommodation start-ups that offered exclusive, fully staffed, and serviced private spaces. For the longest time, many thought it would be hard to match the hotel standards. But as concern about villas and private bungalows being white elephants increased, the need for having regulated operators rose, too.
A well-travelled individual who wanted to have a do-nothing vacation with only their loved ones for company started getting pulled towards alternate accommodation. These places had professional property managers and companies looking into every little aspect of running it – the professionalism of a hotel combined with the charm and comforts of a beloved second home. Purpose-driven, they started offering flexible accommodation, home-cooked meals, and certainty and privacy to you and your group. Someone Do It For Me (DIFM), ya!
By 2019, of the four vacations a person/family took every year, 1 or 2 were spent at a holiday home. This could be because of the hesitation and untrusting outlook towards them compared to a hotel. A lot of it was basis word of mouth. However, COVID-19 was a watershed moment in the history of this industry. They entered as disruptors and turned mainstream. The luxury of owning the space in the comforts of your people and accessing all amenities away from our apartments – sounds good! This had many traditional resort-goers switch gears, and they now recognise, acknowledge and consume private vacation homes in the same manner.
Professional vacation home management companies worldwide have put some method to the madness with a zing and brand value of their own. Responsibilities are offered from reservations to operations, staffing and managing the place, marketing it, and accounting, among other services. Many also partner with Online Travel Aggregators (OTAs) as distribution channels, help in guest relationship management, and have account managers for consistent communication and long-lasting relationships. They all fit the bill from castles, heritage homes, palaces to houseboats, treehouses, villas, container homes, and more. And they are not just limited to a quick getaway or a home away from home. You can have an intimate celebration, a workation, a team outing, your pet’s birthday, and so much more! The rage is so huge that even leading hotel chains have started venturing into this category as a natural extension of their services.
Your uncle’s farmhouse is no longer only reserved (just) for you!
Remodeling your holiday home has to be one of the best adrenaline rushes out there. Exploring all those gorgeous colour palettes and laminate sheets is a journey of its own. The excitement that comes with pretty colour palettes and fancy laminate sheets is like no other. But slow down, take a breath. As delightful as it is, rushing into a process like this can lead to some mistakes. But we’ve got your back to ensure that that doesn’t happen to you. To make the best use of your time and money, go through this list of common remodeling mistakes one can make and then make sure you give them a wide, wide berth!
1. Not planning a specific vision
SaffronStays Beach Blues, Alibaug
Whether your vacation home is for your family use only or being made available for guests to rent out, it needs to have a unique selling point. Are you going for a simple, minimalist style with muted colours and clean lines? Or a bohemian style with quirky decor that is suited for youngsters? The layout, colours, furniture, lighting and decor should come together to create a signature look. Without it, your home just won’t have that spark you need for a refreshing holiday.
2. Sticking to old appliances
SaffronStays Gardenia, Kihim
Keeping your old appliances is tempting. But even if your holiday home is used once in a while, it needs to be up to date. If not, you might waste a lot of your precious off-work time just fixing things. WiFi, for example, is a must-have even during vacations. Ensure you have everyday appliances like microwaves, washing machines and hairdryers, in perfect working condition. It’s also best to opt for machines that are easy to use. Holidays aren’t meant for reading manuals!
3. Making it difficult to clean
SaffronStays Kairos Athena, Karjat
If the first thing you do on reaching your second home is sweep and scrub, then that’s kind of a bummer. Because these getaway homes are used only once in a while, they tend to gather dust. Which is why you should ensure your renovation makes the place easy to clean. Keep all those nooks and crannies easily accessible. Get reliable cleaning tools and definitely hire a caretaker-cum-housekeeper. After all, this is your time to relax.
4. Choosing affordability over durability
SaffronStays SanvinaFarm, Karjat
It may feel nice to pick low-priced tiles and more affordable furniture, but will their prime condition last for years? For a holiday home, you need furnishings that will last for months and years on end, with minimal use/without use and still be in perfect condition. Beachside villas, in particular, need to withstand the salty sea air and sand. Think of remodeling your holiday home as a long term investment. The more you put in, the higher the rewards. Spending on sturdy materials will be more economical in the long run.
5. Not considering entertaining the people
SaffronStays Masaya, Alibaug
One of the crucial things to consider while redoing a holiday home is the number of people it is meant to A crucial thing to consider while redoing a holiday home is the number of people it is meant to accommodate. Homes for large families can include wide outdoor patios with cushions and fairy lights, whereas homes for couples or small groups should include cosy nooks for intimate talks. The capacity of the home will help you make decisions such as choosing between a macrame swing or a set of lounge chairs.
6. Prioritising style over safety
SaffronStays Masaya, Alibaug
Redesigning your home opens up a flow of endless creative ideas. But what you want, may not be what the house needs. So before you install those fancy kitchen appliances, make sure they won’t cause electrical issues. Avoid having too many sharp corners in small spaces. Stay away from pretty bathroom tiles if they are too slippery. Ensure the staircase bannister is not just charming but also strong. Whether it’s for you or any guests you might rent the home out to, safety is your highest priority!
7. Restraining the designer in you
SaffronStays Aurelia, Panchgani
Your holiday home is where your wildest dreams can come true. Pick the bright colours, mosaic tiles and glitzy ceiling light that you thought would be too much for your home in the city. Go for Portuguese architecture or French balconies. There’s no need to hold back since this house is meant for you to have a good time. At the end of the day, your holiday home should make you feel transported! But make sure it’s not a Jackson Pollock painting brought to life; you should highlight certain areas, and let the others compliment your statement picks.
8. Forgetting to add a touch of luxury
Last but not least, your holiday home should be a place where you can have fun! As beautiful as your house is, it may not be worth it if there isn’t much for a person to do. So while you’re remodeling your holiday home, don’t forget to add in those features that you would love to use on a vacation — karaoke systems, a dance floor with a disco ball, a foosball table, tennis lawn, board games, an outdoor bar by the pool, the list can go on and on.
Keep in mind the goal of the house — to be a place where you can let loose, relax and enjoy. Let that mantra guide you as you renovate your holiday home. All you need to do is avoid making these 8 common mistakes and you won’t go wrong. Let the remodelling begin!
Real estate in India has seen several resets in the past couple of years, and the pandemic has only served to accelerate it further. Second homes which were hitherto very aspirational and a means to invest a surplus of funds, have now become the norm for a majority of Indian buyers. With cities getting increasingly chaotic, second homes serve the purpose of an alternative abode, a place to go to over the weekends with family, somewhere where nature and calm surrounds you.
Every one of us dreams of a home to run off to every once in a while. Sea-facing, close to hills or mountains, or surrounded by orchards and rivers are just some of the expectations we design them around. While many of us grew up with just dreaming this dream, so many today have been able to make this a reality. Vacation homes for a majority of us, especially those well settled, having lived and worked in bustling cities, is a dream that resonates with our true selves.
Owning a second home versus making do with one
Whether it is an investment choice or just the need to escape to another abode, building or purchasing a second home is a wise move. It does involve the usual hassle of building construction, doing up the interiors, taking care of amenities and sprucing up the surroundings and ensuring it is well looked after all the year through. But when the effort culminates in a place you can call your own, it is well worth the effort. However there can be thoughts crossing your mind about whether all the effort is worth it?
White Elephant or Earning Family Member
Second homes can be both a blessing and a curse, the latter if you’re not happy with your decision or the costs far exceed the investment (both tangibles and intangibles). What then are the decisions to be taken about the second home and how does one go about it?
Second homes are an added expense as you probably know by now. If you’re making use of it between you and your family, benefitting from its shelter and place to escape, it is already giving you returns. Figure out how often you use it through the year, and match it against spends for caretaking and general upkeep.
Second homes are almost always a culmination of a dream, deeply personal and emotional. It is where you’ve done what you wanted, put together decor and interiors you always imagined, designed it the way you’ve always envisioned. Figuring out whether it is really worth the effort to keep can be a biased decision but one necessary to take.
Second homes can be a mental preoccupation. Constantly worrying about paying bills, checking on the home, maintenance and care can take their toil over time and a home that should actually bring happiness can seem like a white elephant you are grudgingly carrying around.
Despite all of these thoughts, second homes can be a blessing as shared by homeowners who have made theirs a valuable earning member.
Businessman Raja Varma whose second homes – Villa 270° in Dapoli, and Suvarna Sangam in Udupi – are exclusively managed by SaffronStays, shares his experience.
Way back in 2013, before I retired from my corporate life, I decided I need to have my own second homes. In 2015, I acquired 3 such properties. While my family was enjoying them, maintaining them turned out to be a big challenge in terms of the fixed costs. As luck would have it, I met the company’s founders through a common friend. They explained the company’s business model to me. Initially, I was reluctant but reached out to them after a couple of weeks.
As a homeowner it is natural for thoughts like this to cross your mind. Here’s a way to make your second home a valuable earning member.
Partner with a trusted vacation rental partner who takes care of things for you.
Keep it with you but rent it out whenever you wish to get income that offsets the cost.
Let someone else manage your risks, help your space get occupied and make it earn for you
Let your second home give you a sense of joy, instead of becoming burdensome and a financial weight.
Give someone else the joy of experiencing it as much as you.
