Natural Balance

Western Australia’s economy was largely built on extraction and export of natural resources. We’ve all grown up in, worked for, or know someone who has ties with the mining resources industry in WA. We’re largely reliant on it.

And while the resources sector is in a transitioning phase moving towards more earth friendly, renewable energy, emission reduction and energy efficiency products and services how are we going to address a short fall in traditional industry decline, including jobs and the economic stimulus that stems from this?

We have an mind blowing natural landscape to build on eco/ nature based tourism and leisure experiences. Many that are accessible for free or at a low cost for residents and visitors. Many places unknown to the masses and while we slowly introduce smaller eco tourism developments in nature spaces, to stimulate our economy, create wonderful experiences and jobs, how can we find that natural balance of increased visitation without the effects of over tourism in eco sensitive locations?

We also have a demand for short term rental accommodation close to or within these beautiful places. So how do we combine the two to create special memories without leaving a trace?

There are some clever individuals with innovative ideas within businesses in this space. Some born and bred sandgropers, building eco tourism products and services from the ground up in our great State of Western Australia. Watch this space for some examples of best practice in providing access to our natural beauties introduced for nature bathing, leaving a minimal footprint.

My family and I attended the Ocean film launch at Fremantle Maritime Museum recently. Wow, this is a movie that every human should watch. David Attenborough was outstanding in how he draws attention to the fragility, and the urgency in protecting, our earth. This is important stuff that should influence everything we do in our lives and business.

Short Term Rental Accommodation Industry Regulation Challenges

I’ve been involved in industry advocacy for the past decade since Welcome In was established. First and foremost as an owner and manager of two short term rental accommodation (STRA) properties in WA and then as a business development consultant to the niche sector within the tourism and leisure industry.

Industry regulation has been a process for most of the past decade with digital disruption. I first noticed such disruption when a friend told me about Stayz, now HomeAway. This was back when Stayz was owned by Australian business, Fairfax, who acquired it off founders in 2005, later acquired by Expedia in 2013 - a global corporation.

When it was first introduced to us it would’ve been 2008/9. An owner could list their property and a guest could book it. There were also other basic management administration functionalities such as a cleaners log for example. We paid an annual listing fee of I think $160 per year, per property and the commission used to be a flat rate per day booked fee. I think it was $11.90 from memory or maybe it was $8.90 - I can’t remember.

Fast forward a decade and there are many other booking portals or Online Travel Agents (OTA’s) that allow for online bookings including Airbnb, Booking.com etc. All contributing to an increased supply of home style short term accommodation that I personally grew up with and loved - it was exciting to think we could rent our property in the Perth Hills short term while retaining it for ourselves to utilise when we returned home for visits (while we were working and living interstate in QLD). This increased supply was met with an equal, if not higher demand. Consumers wanted residential style short term accommodation because it was homelier and more affordable for group or family travel.

It’s not the only industry that’s been disrupted though. There are many more examples including Uber, Netflix, Scribe, Isubscribe etc - even Gumtree and RealEstate.com.au were early innovators in this space in Australia. So many more emerging right in this very moment. There are start up incubators actively seeking technological solutions to many of the world’s problems and inventing collaborative consumption businesses left right and centre right now. Peer to peer, cutting out the middle person/ business.

I could go on and on about this. It’s a reality. The world is changing and all we can do is embrace it and keep it fair and safe. Each state and territory in Australia is at different stages of review and regulation. Here’s a summary;

Western Australia

“The McGowan Government is adopting nearly all of the recommendations arising from the recent parliamentary inquiry into short-stay accommodation. 

The whole-of-Government response to the 2019 Parliamentary Inquiry Levelling the Playing Field - Managing the impact of the rapid increase of Short-Term Rentals in Western Australia aims to introduce better management of the industry at a community level. 

Led by Jessica Shaw MLA, the inquiry presented 10 recommendations to improve outdated and inconsistent policy governing short-term rentals, and create greater certainty for the tourism industry, accommodation providers and guests.  

The inquiry found that short-term rentals are a genuine income source for some people and are increasingly widely used by guests; however there was no regulation of the industry and numerous examples of adverse impacts on neighbours and local communities.” (McGowan Government, Western Australia). Read More.

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I feel like I'm getting to that stage in my career where I know a bit about the short term and holiday rental accommodation industry in Australia and so if you'd like to read more articles to help you grow and sustain your operation/ business you might like to subscribe (free) to receive my blog articles in your lovely inbox.

I'm also on Facebook! Instagram & Linked In!

Have a superb day!

Cheers

Natalie :)

Google’s Recorder Now Transcribes

I’m a bit of a Google fan, using G-suite to run my business and making use of many Google apps. I’m rather excited that the Recorder app now transcribes.

Actually I was hunting for an app like this a few years ago when I had to chair and take minutes for a Holiday Rental Industry Association (HRIA) now Australian Short Term Rental Accommodation (ASTRA) industry meeting.

Technology continues to deliver by solving problems but be aware as they can become obsolete as swiftly as they are launched. I tend to keep within the Google suite for integration and compatibility even when there is temptation to trial improved competitor versions.

Make sure you seek permission to record conversations and meetings in advance though.

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I feel like I'm getting to that stage in my career where I know a bit about the short term and holiday rental accommodation industry in Australia and so if you'd like to read more articles to help you grow and sustain your operation/ business you might like to subscribe (free) to receive my blog articles in your lovely inbox.

I'm also on Facebook! Instagram & Linked In!

Have a superb day!

Cheers

Natalie :)

Grumpy Australian Holiday Rental Owner or Neighbour?

A grumpy cat to grab your attention - nice! So which side of the fence are you on? We're all a little grumpy about the impending rules and regulations to be thrust upon our niche short term accommodation sector in Australia.Let's face it...most owners managers in the niche short term accommodation rental sector in Australia have known they have largely been flying under the radar. Only recently has Government realised how many exist and what benefit, and impact, they have on the economy and community amenity. And I'm not just talking about the Australian Government. This is high profile global stuff we're talking about here.The challenges differ in each unique tourism region in Australia too. Particularly if you compare high density grouped dwelling stays with regional Australia. There are supply concerns in larger cities which is supposedly driving the price of residential accommodation through the roof and other quieter seaside tourist meccas that demand more tourist accommodation - so short term fills that void. Some cities are in a recession, others are booming!Let's not play the blame game though and point the finger at collaborative consumption trends and savvy digital booking platforms. The reality is that more and more travellers are seeking out an authentic and culturally enriching travel experience and booking portals and OTA's have made that possible as they do generate bookings - we can thank Stayz as the online booking, remote owner management pioneers in Australia. We also know the world has been a little scary since major world events and well the fact is mostly there is little money to indulge in interstate or international travel. This means the traveller is looking for a bargain.We also know the world has been a little scary since major world events and well the fact is mostly there is little money to indulge in interstate or international travel. This means the traveller is looking for a bargain.Holiday homes have always existed. My peers and I have always stayed in holiday rentals over hotels. I've never really understood the appeal of staying in a stuffy hotel room. I prefer space and fresh air and a homely experience plus it means a group of us can bunker down together, share meals and time together and not pay ridiculous prices for buffet breakfasts that many don't front up for, for whatever reason...big night, slept in, preferred to support the local seaside cafe.We haven't needed the fluffy slippers or the dressing gown (most probably manufactured and owned by an international), the newspaper under our door or the revolutionary wake up call or $15 plus movies. Funnily enough we can access most of this fluffy stuff (minus the dressing gown - who actually wears those anyway?) from our smart phones.Times have changed. We are more tech savvy, bargain savvy - because of technology giving us choice and price comparison.Because times are changing though we are sharing our things more, our spaces. More and more savvy people who have a bit of spare space are listing their properties as a whole house or room for rent in the short term accommodation rental market. Yes, it's been happening and a tradition in Australia for many many years. The reality is inventory is now huge and that is because consumers have changed the way they travel and set a demand for such an experience.Right so now you have the background. In the wake of a number of Government enquiries into short term accommodation rental regulations in Australia I have these thoughts;NoiseStart with Noise Abatement legislation. Think about parties. If you are throwing a party in your street you would usually consult your neighbours? If not, you would probably hold your head in shame and knock on their doors the next day and hand them a bottle of Moet - yes I've done this before - actually I sent my husband over! As long as you're not doing this regularly then I am sure you will not be rejected by your neighbourhood.These neighbours have children, or elderly parents or have to get up and work every day. These people need at least 7/8 hours sleep. I know if I don't get enough sleep I will get grumpy and if it happens all the time then I will take action and believe me this is why the sector is under the microscope and why you are a contributor to tighter regulations to control such rogue operations.The fact is there are laws that protect neighbourhood amenity. This means a certain noise level is acceptable. Go over that you will make your neighbours grumpy and they have the right to call the Police. First and foremost you must educate yourself on acceptable noise or just use your common sense and educate your guests to behave.ParkingThe same applies for parking. It would be very helpful and proactive to tell your guests how many car parking spaces there are and that it is not ok to park on the neighbours lawn. Seriously if you are operating and not being mindful of your neighbours then education (for managers and guests) should be considered an important piece of the puzzle.Group Dwelling & Other Zoning RestrictionsWhile I don't think group dwellings are suitable for short term rentals I do think that every owner/ manager should have the opportunity to give it a go. If they disrupt their amenity or rip anyone off then they will naturally have to shut down their operation.Owners Corporations should only have the power to enforce the rules and regulations not set them.Zoning restrictions are irrelevant.House Size & NumbersHouse size is irrelevant.Restricted numbers fair enough but only in terms of health and safety. I realise that overcrowing creates a risk of noisy parties but mostly we are talking about groups of friends or families who just want to crash together to keep the cost low. Noise controls should do just that - control the noise. It's common sense isn't it?!License - Education for Owners & GuestsManagement of a short term rental accommodation is a whole lot of hard work. I know this because I have owner managed with my own investment properties and I've been up close with managers of multiple properties. If we are to give our visitors a fantastic experience then we need to take this seriously and do it properly. There has to be some sort of license that involves education that links to rules and regulations. It is absolutely necessary and has been a long time coming.  It forces the rogue operators out of the shadows and weeds them out as they fail to play by the rules.Trust accounting is a pain in the behind -mostly I think it is necessary - but may requires a relook and rejig as many aspects of it generate a lot of extra work for managers. It's something that needs to be tabled for further discussion that is for sure.Tax is tax. Income is income. You earn an income you decide whether you declare it or. You don't, you risk getting in trouble. That is on you. I really cannot see the difference and if the ATO are worried they are missing out on income they maybe they need to introduce a requirement for an ABN of sorts. Maybe an AMBN (Australian Micro Business Number). I don't really know. It's not been a concern for me because I have always claimed the income from my short term accommodation rental ventures in Australia.Grumpy Neighbours - Where is Your Voice?If you are not a stakeholder, other than an irate neighbour of a rogue operation, then I am sorry on behalf of the industry that you are located in such proximity to a lesser human being. One that is spoiling it for the rest of the industry. My advice is write to your local government authority and consider constructive suggestions on how your life may be made easier. Also I urge you to consider the benefits. Firstly you may have a skill to offer the manager that might earn you some income (caretaker, cleaner, guest experience etc), it's also good to have someone in the house rather than it sitting vacant and you can never tell if your residential neighbour is going to behave either. We never knew we'd be renting next to a barking dog for six months when we relocated out of the City. Yep a barking dog. A relentlessly loud barking puppy who missed it parents every time they walked out the door, including through the night, when they went out of town. Yes, that made me grumpy.Think about all those lovely visitors staying in your community and spending money to boost your economy.  This is happening. This is really truly happening especially if the managers of the holiday rentals are going out of their way to speak with local tourism operators and offering guests a special deal.Managers Present & On Call 24/7Managers must be on call 24/7. You might have the convenience of key locks and avoid the face to face meet and greet. Fair enough. If you are not available to take a call in the event of an emergency or because the kettle isn't working (which I think is an emergency) then you should not be managing a property. Sure, appoint a caretaker but that person should be registered and available.Insurance & Risk ManagementIf you do not have insurance that is your prerogative but for the safety of guests opting to consume holiday rental accommodation I think it is overall a good practice. It means someone has actually assessed your home, identified areas of concern (ie a balcony that is about to collapse) and decided whether it is safe for guests and if not, what is required to bring it up to an acceptable standard. I do believe consumers will be looking out for accredited style accommodations knowing they are safe when staying in the property. If not, there is an understanding that home style accommodation comes with risk just the same as if you crashed in your friends 50 year old granny flat. I actually cannot understand why any manager would operate without the necessary checks and insurances. Maybe they do not understand how many thousands of dollars they may be out of pocket should someone be injured or possibly die in their property. Yes - it happens!!!Fair Rules & RegulationFair rules and regulations and engagement and education with grass roots stakeholders are on the only way forward in my opinion. Knee jerk reactions will hurt this growing sector which is in demand. It is counter productive.Stakeholders Working TogetherLocal government and local tourism organisations must work with short term accommodation rental stakeholders. Not against them. This includes allowing for booking systems that integrate with the managers own independent calendar. Visitor centres must not consider accommodation and experiences as a source of income. It is working against all tourism operators.Owners/ Managers Come Out Of The Shadows - Out From Under The RadarAll owners must come out from the shadows and have a voice. Fly that flag and say yes I have a short term accommodation rental and I want to continue working closely with my local stakeholders to learn how to best operate. If you think that remaining silent will help your cause you are absolutely incorrect. That is in fact why a number of enquiries are being damaged because there isn't enough input from the actual owners and managers of these properties because they are worried they will be shut down. The reality is you will be shut down unless you can convince your worth to your local people, most importantly your local community.Code of ConductYes there is a Code of Conduct introduced by the Holiday Rental Industry Association. We hope all stakeholders, especially those on the grass roots, have a chance to provide some input on any future reviews. Let's also hope there is an education program attached to it that is endorsed and promoted by local government.My closing message is that it is vitally important to understand that you as the owner/ manager of a holiday rental accommodation business in Australia are the most important stakeholder group. Think of global booking portals and OTA's as a means of finding guests. They can certainly contribute their thoughts and opinions, that will protect their own bottom lines, from their own perspective. It is you at the coal face that really knows what is going on and who is well placed to contribute ideas and better ways of going about business.Always strive for independent management for sustainability and only list your properties with booking portals and OTA's who allow integration with your own management technology and systems. Aim for direct bookings through your own independent systems and remarketing to your own guest database.Ok so let's all wait and see what happens with the individual state and territory Enquiries. It's going to be an interesting year ahead.If you are a niche short term rental accommodation industry stakeholder in Australia you might be interested in connecting with me on Linked In. I have a group discussion in place for Short Term Rental Accommodation Legislation & Local Laws.If you'd like to learn more I am currently drafting a guide/ publication for managers and other short-term or holiday rental accommodation stakeholders. Subscribers will receive a discount when it becomes available later in 2018.Have a superb day!CheersNatalie :)Subsequent news stories since the first publication date of this editorial (30/3/2017);Balcony collapse in Brisbane suburb of St Lucia leaves nine in hospitalTravel giant Expedia joins campaign for crackdown on Airbnb rentalsThe 'booming' NSW economy that 100,000 people have joinedWinners and losers – the five main options for proposed NSW Airbnb laws

Top 5 Benefits Of Short Term Holiday Rentals

Cottesloe Beach House Stays explore the benefits of choosing short term accommodation compared to that of a hotel.

1. EXTRA SPACE

Instead of being cramped in a single hotel room guests are able to enjoy the comforts of extra space and individual rooms. After a few days in a hotel, the room tends to look more and more like a junkyard with souvenirs piled next to the bed and electrical devices battling for outlets.

With the wide variety that Cottesloe Beach House Stays offer, guests can choose from one bedroom studios apartments to five bedroom houses. Because of the variety in size we can find a property that is just right for you and your requirements.

2. ABILITY TO COOK

The ability to cook is one of the most beneficial factors of short term accommodation. Guests are able to save money and eat according to their dietary requirements.

This is particularly handy for guests with allergies, gluten free specifications or food needed for cultural practices.  

3. COST EFFECTIVE

This is particularly the case when couples or families travel together. Guests can share the cost for a whole house rather than paying for separate rooms in a hotel.

For instance, The Cottesloe Seaview Apartment can accommodate up to 4 guests comfortably from $219 per night through low season. Dividing the cost between 4 adults equals $54.75 per night!

4. UNIQUE IN STYLE

Cottesloe Beach House Stays offer properties that are unique in style and pride ourselves on maintaining excellent cleaning standards. Guests can experience the local flavour of the area, with properties situated throughout Cottesloe, Mosman Park, Claremont and Nedlands.

Every property has distinct features which allow guests to experience that home away from home atmosphere.  Forget trying to find the correct door number in long corridors of replicated rooms; short term accommodation is an ideal choice for travellers wanting a stay that is distinctive and memorable.

5. PERSONALISED SERVICE

Booking accommodation needs to be as easy as possible, from the start of the booking process right through to when you check out. Cottesloe Beach House Stays personalised service ensures guests feel at ease with the property whilst respecting the privacy of your stay. Our motto is: “We care, we can do and we want you back again!”

This is why we have after hours contact numbers in case of any urgent matters. We also offer meet and greets at many or our properties to go through all of the ins and outs.

We welcome feedback, so please feel free to be in touch if you have any recommendations for our business! For further information regarding Perth short term accommodation, please browse our wide variety of Properties or contact us today on info@cbhstays.com.au

Provide Your Guests Regional Tourism Information. Game Changer!

Save your guests time and preempt the activities they are seeking. Make the information readily available for them before and during their stay.

Don't limit yourself. Partner with local businesses that can add value. If you're an accommodation provider, find out if there is a day spa close by who will offer an in house or discount service for example. A local restaurant might offer a free bottle of wine for your guests or you could offer restaurant clientele 10% off accommodation. It works both ways.

It might be worth looking for national industry partners to. Triplify, The Traveller's What's On Guide is a national directory of authentic and culturally enriching festivals and other events. We have a few clients who have embedded an event widget within their website which lists events of interest specific to their tourism region and the guests dates of travel. Have a look at an example here on Cottsloe Beach House Stays in Perth, Western Australia. Visit the Triplify website to learn more about how they can enhance the entertainment information you provide your guests to enhance their experience.

Connect with your local community, chamber of commerce, LGA, tourist association/visitor centre. Add them to your database, subscribe to their communications. Keep informed and share information.

Think outside the box with your marketing and build up content on your website to share with your guests.

For more holiday rental management tips subscribe to the Welcome In e-community here (free)  or contact us if you would like to find out a little more about how Welcome In can help you successfully manage your short term accommodation in Australia.

Connect Your Holiday Rental Guests with Local Tourism Experiences

Save your holiday rental guests time and preempt the activities they are seeking. Make the information readily available for them before and during their stay.Don't limit yourself. Partner with local businesses that can add value. Find out if there is a day spa close by who will offer an in house or discount service for example. A local restaurant might offer a free bottle of wine for your guests or you could offer restaurant clientele 10% off accommodation. It works both ways.Connect with your local community, chamber of commerce, Local Government Association, Regional Tourism Organisation, Visitor Centre. Add them to your database, subscribe to their communications. Keep informed and share information.Think outside the box with your marketing and build up content on your holiday rental website to share with your guests.For more holiday rental management and marketing tips subscribe to the Welcome In e-community here (free) or contact us if you would like to find out a little more about how Welcome In can help you successfully manage your holiday rental accommodation in Australia.Find out about our new product, the Welcome In holiday rental guest packs, which allow your guest to make a cuppa, have a snack, wash up, relax and feel at home while they're away. They can also link to local tourism offerings.

Feeling At Home While Away

My friends and I escaped the hustle and bustle of the Perth City (minus husbands and children) for some well needed rest and relaxation. We had Bunker Bay (South West of Western Australia) in our sights.We arrived at our destination, the Bunker Bay Beach House, an individually owned holiday property within the Bunker Bay Resort estate. Exclusive short term accommodation – this place was pure luxury. We searched for our accommodation on Welcome In – The Short Term Accommodation Specialists site.At the point of booking the Bunker Bay Beach House it was brought to our attention that we could access all of the Bunker Bay Resort facilities during our stay including eligibility for the Mii Spa ‘Enjoy a Day at Bunker Bay’ special which included a divine massage, facial, scrumptious lunch and a glass of wine at the Resort restaurant. Of course we didn’t hesitate to book this in.The ladies and I had three nights and two days to spend at Bunker Bay. After reading through the information provided, by the owner of the Bunker Bay Beach House in their comprehensive house notes and guest file, we decided to:

• Shop locally in Dunsborough for our supplies.

• Have a browse through the Dunsborough shops. A favourite was Beach Lifestyle Living gifts and home wares.

• Have a bite to eat for lunch on day 1 at the Tealicious House (wow!) and breakfast on our departure day at Bunkers Beach Cafe (absolute beach front ambience in this beauty).

• Order some take-away from Thai Papaya in Dunsborough.

• Indulge in the Mii Spa package

We also decided to stay close to the house, go for walks along the beach (100m from our accommodation), read by the fire and chill out - most importantly. All of the above was easily scheduled into our simply glorious getaway.The highlights of the trip included having everything we needed at the Bunker Bay Beach House including indoor and outdoor spa’s, two living areas with gas (wood) fires, large and ambient open plan kitchen/dining and proximity to the magical Bunker Bay. The outdoor spa was located within a spectacular outdoor wilderness entertainment area on the deck. Completely private and tranquil.We felt like we were holidaying at home. The service from enquiry to checkout was first class. The house notes and guest file allowed us to choose our activities with ease. A completely effortless and thoroughly enjoyable experience.We will return and recommend the Bunker Bay Beach House and all short term accommodation listed on Welcome In to our loved ones.NoteFind the local treasures during your time away include searching the Welcome in supplier directory of local attractions and services.Alternatively contact your local Visitor Centre, in this instance it would be the Geographe Bay/Dunsborough Visitor Centre. They list local attractions and have an online business directory.Tourism WA has a dedicated page on their website for Bunker Bay. And the regional website, Australia’s South West, provides an online and interactive Holiday Planner that can also be downloaded and printed to help plan your journey.The Local Government Authority is also another great source for local information. In this instance it’s the City of Busselton. Search for community based tourism attractions (facilities, events etc). Who else knows their community better than the residents living in and driving the local economy.I know for me I like to seek out the most community culturally enriching tourism experiences when I go away especially when I have my family with me. The added bonus is these attractions are usually free and are well suited to young families. An example is a community market. Where else can you go for free to browse the stalls, enjoy the hand made goods and local produce and get the real vibe of the community you are visiting.

Want to know about Development Applications (DA)?

I thought I’d never have to hear about DA’s again since departing local government and establishing my own consulting business. Sadly that is all I hear about as I support the Australian Short Term Rental Accommodation (ASTRA) industry association fight for fair industry regulation.

DA = Development Application, whereby you seek permission off your Local Government Authority (LGA), guided by a local or state planning law, to change the use of or develop land.

So why I am all of a sudden hearing DA in daily conversations again when I am no longer sitting in on council meetings?

It is because in 2009 WA Planning released guidelines which promoted local regulation of Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) in Western Australia. While they state "In general, holiday homes should be residential dwellings on freehold lots." they also propose "Identification of preferred areas for holiday homes in local planning strategies based on sound planning principles." and recommend "that holiday homes be introduced as a use class in the zoning table of local planning schemes, and be made a D or an SA use (discretionary or discretionary subject to advertising)."

This is where the DA comes into play. If the LGA in which you operate has adopted a local STRA policy or regulation, then you will either need to go on a register and/or formally apply for a change of use from residential to whatever they define the use, in most it is Special Residential and therefore residential properties let short term are grouped with hotels, traditional bnb’s, serviced apartments, lodging and boarding houses.

We are challenging regulators over this requirement to change use as STRA properties are still used as residential dwellings, shorter term. That’s another topic for another blog article.

I have just processed my first DA on behalf of a STRA owner and manager and so I am familiar with the process. I also have a strong local government background working for Mandurah, Ravensthorpe, Western Downs (QLD) and Darwin LGA’s directly, and others as a contract consultant.

If you need assistance in submitting a Development Application (DA) for Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) in Western Australia please do not hesitate to contact me for more details on the service and fee I offer natalie@welcomein.com.au.

If you are also concerned about STRA being redefined as a commercial use, or maybe you want to connect with other industry stakeholders, learn, educate and so forth, then I strongly encourage you to join the Australian Short Term Rental Accommodation (ASTRA) industry association at www.astra.asn.au. I have also formed a closed WA ASTRA members Facebook group and all WA members will be invited to review the draft Position Statement soon to be released by the WA Government as the next stage in the STRA regulation enquiry.

Do you have permission to rent your residence short term?

I’ve been involved in fair Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) industry advocacy for almost a decade. In Western Australia, we’re at the pointy end of a long drawn out fight for the survival of a traditional, highly sought after, accommodation experience for travellers who want to stay in a residential property/ home away from home for a holiday, business, education, health and many other reasons.

As a child we used to mix up our holidays with nature based camping, park stays on the water in Dunsborough and short term holiday rentals. As a young adult my friends travelled in groups and Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) was our preference. When I had on operation in Noosa we found a STRA/holiday home because we had young children. The list goes. We know this residential style of short term accommodation is legitimate and yet here we remain fighting for long term sustainability because this sort of accommodation is very popular now and there are a small number of dodgy operators who don’t care about guest safety or neighbourhood amenity.

We have a patchwork of local regulations because the planning guidelines are outdated. There is no clear definition for STRA as a residential use. Regional and rural locations usually welcome them because they provide needed accommodation and bring visitors to boost their economy, metropolitan LGA’ s are influenced by large corporate lobbyists deeming STRA commercial because they consider STRA competition and want to level the playing field. They hone in on a very small number of neighbour complaints and paint the STRA industry as a nuisance destroying local communities. Unbelievable really.

Reading through the comments provided in the WA inquiry submissions I’m quite frankly - gob smacked! One comment alluded to a resident feeling like she’s living in a ghost town because most of the properties on her street are STRA. Really? Is this actually being considered as a reason to tell owners what they can and can’t do with their properties?

I love that half the properties on our street are vacant. The one across the road a few years ago had permanent residential tenants who had drug and domestic violence issues, with police called out numerous times, screaming down the street through the day and night. The resident actually turned up on my doorstep high as a kite one day. That was scary. Another time when we were renting while searching for a new home we found ourselves severely sleep deprived from a permanent resident next door (owners) dog barking whenever they weren’t home - which was often. I had two young toddlers and I have to say that was not a time I was able to peacefully enjoy my residence without noise disturbance.

We are offering home style accommodation, short term. Some Local Government’s will require you to complete a Development Application (DA) to seek planning permission to rent your residential property short term. Depending on the local planning policy STRA will be either be considered;

“‘P’ means that the use is permitted by the Scheme providing the use complies with the relevant development standards and the requirements of the Scheme;

‘D’ means that the use is not permitted unless the local government has exercised its discretion by granting planning approval as required by clause 4.8;

‘A’ means that the use is not permitted unless the local government has exercised its discretion by granting planning approval as required by clause 4.8 after giving notice in accordance with clause 9.4; and

‘X’ means a use that is not permitted by the Scheme.” (Cottesloe Town Planning Scheme 3).

To find out if you have permission to rent your residential property short term you will need to research your local government authority’s policy on STRA, search for the local planning scheme and the most closely fitting accommodation definition then locate the zoning table. In Cottesloe for example some residential precincts it’s not a permitted use or ‘X’. Other zones it’s ‘D’ or Discretionary meaning the administration will engage with neighbours and consider the Development Application and the local councillors will decide by majority vote if you are granted permission.

If you want to rent your residential property short term in Mandurah then you have permission to go ahead subject to registration. Yay! How great is that. The situation is similar for the Shire of Murray.

As a leisure management professional, with a background working in local government, experience as a STRA owner and manager, 3 + years on the Board of the national Australian Short Term Rental Accommodation industry association I am well positioned to provide consulting services to assist you in navigating regulation and seeking permission, assist you in becoming/ help finding a professional property manager. If you’re already an established agent/ contract property manager maybe I can help you grow your business.

Please complete the contact form below (in the footer) if you wish to connect. I’d be happy to jump on a telephone or teleconference call to introduce myself and determine what problems I can help you solve. There’s a bit about me below including a link to my Linked In profile.

If you’re a Short Term Rental Accommodation (STRA) stakeholder (owner, manager, supplier etc) I recommend reaching out to the national industry association Australian Short Term Accommodation (ASTRA). They are continually advocating for fair industry regulation across Australia.

If you’re in Western Australia, I have formed a WA stakeholder group on Facebook and warmly welcome you to send me a join request.

Happy days!

On your doorstep or in close proximity….

Everyone knows how to use Google Maps but most won’t before they search for their ideal short term rental or holiday accommodation. I want you to visualise yourself as a traveller without a car. I say this because you want your property to be appealing to all travellers. Also because many want to get out among the elements, enjoy a bit of exercise rather than jump back in their car.

I want you to imagine that you’ve spent all day travelling and have just arrived late afternoon. You’re tired yet eager to see the sights. You probably don’t feel like cooking and a short walk will justify a cheeky beverage at your favourite inner city waterhole (pub).

You want to be immediately immersed into the unique culture of this place and enjoy the local buzz.

Now try and recreate that one such experience in a paragraph in your property description. Take the prospective guest on a story telling journey highlighting what is great that is close by for them to easily experience as soon as they arrive.

I’ve even taken a screen shot of Google Maps (above) with the journey mapped out. I used a landmark close by instead of my own address. Note distance, time and scale provided in this screenshot which is helpful information to include.

Now here is how I might draft such a paragraph;

“There is much to experience in close proximity to your holiday rental in Halls Head, Mandurah. After you arrive we know you won’t feel like cooking, and will be keen to immerse yourself in the Mandurah culture, so why not take a short stroll (2.5kms, 30 minute walk) into Mandurah City and enjoy a bite and bevvy on the water at Bar Therapy? Before you arrive at your short term accommodation we’ll give you a list of fabulous experiences right on your doorstep, or very close by”.

Note the key words I’ve used in this paragraph, which will greatly assist in your short term accommodation being found in Google searches. Location (including suburb and city), holiday rental, short term accommodation. All these words will be inserted into Google searches, possibly even searches on the short term rental accommodation managers website if the prospective guest is savvy enough to #bookdirect.

Why not make this a little project and send me a link to your listing to show off your story telling skills to natalie@welcomein.com.au.

Are New Marketing Applications A Liability For Short Term And Holiday Rental Businesses?

I am seriously losing track of which apps (short for applications) I've installed and what technology I am trialing from the start up sphere. Some of you will be scratching your heads wondering what the heck is this article is about. Others will sympathise and probably have a Ripl, Screencastify, IStock (essential I think - to compliment an amazing holiday rental accommodation image gallery) Shopify, SumoMe, Mail Chimp, WeVideo, Netflix, Canva (...) application running either on their desktop or mobile device.

All these new start up's promising the world. New innovations to simplify processes, trendier, hip ways of doing cool stuff for your business. Commerce is so fast paced now with digital technologies. It's really tricky to keep up - or even keep ahead to be competitive.

Remember that all the time you spend downloading and trialing new solutions are a cost to you as a business manager. Some of that investment will pay off. Other times you may find that placing too much focus on new technologies may in fact be a liability to your operation.

You might be a start up yourself. "A startup company (startup or start-up) is an entrepreneurial venture which is typically a newly emerged, fast-growing business that aims to meet a marketplace need by developing a viable business model around an innovative product, service, process or a platform." (Wikipedia - however reliable that is!).

Technically (pardon pun), I am a start up. I'm not a tech start up but a start up nonetheless. Actually Welcome In has been in start up mode for roughly seven years now. I know this because I was pregnant with my second son, Marshall, who is now six. OMG - time, flying!

So getting back on the subject I sometimes stop and realise that I am in fact getting sucked into the vortex within the start up sphere. This is when I actually lose control of exactly what I have signed up for, downloaded, subscribed (sometimes a paid subscription - can you believe how expensive Linked In Premium is these days but OMG I have to have it....).

I often download the app, which is conveniently available for mobile devices, then my space runs out (because I really need to download another app or I've taken too many photos) and so I delete it thinking I will download it again in the future. Before you know it six months have passed and then a monthly subscription fee shows up on my statement - ARGGHHHH! - the shocking part about this is that I have actually paid for a subscription but haven't used it for months and months. Hmm. Naughty! I guess I can at least claim them as businesses expenses for research!

Yes I know some are quite evidently amazing. Like Netflix - how can anyone watch free to air TV now! Yes I know this is an entertainment app. There are others like WeVideo that are fantastic too but oh dear they now charge to receive what you did for free 12 months ago. Be wary of this. The art is to test in the free trial and then be realistic and know that it is very likely that this start up will recognise their worth (because they will be using metrics like adopter growth) and switch into monetisation phase - this essentially means they will start charging you to use their application. At some time they have to make money to be viable. Just like you need to invest in marketing to grow your holiday rental business by attracting more visitors to your site who make more bookings!

I guess the point of this article is to have fun, give new technology a go. I personally really value Canva for marketing communications graphics. My advice is to give it all a go but keep a close eye on what you sign up for particularly if there is a subscription fee involved and you missed the small print that says your subscription will be auto-renewed every month until you opt out!

I feel like I'm getting to that stage in my career where I know a bit about the short term and holiday rental accommodation industry in Australia and so if you'd like to read more articles to help you grow and sustain your operation/ business you might like to subscribe (free) to receive my blog articles in your lovely inbox.

I'm also on Facebook! Instagram & Linked In!

Have a superb day!

Cheers

Natalie :)