🔍 Real Insights from the Ground: Holiday Lets vs. Commercial Conversions Yesterday was full of learning and a few surprises along the way 🙈. I spent the day viewing potential commercial conversion projects, including one that needs a full back-to-brick refurbishment. A slightly smaller project than what I normally look at. I was genuinely shocked to learn that someone had still been living there, a sobering reminder of the human side of property. Beyond the viewings, I connected with some fantastic local agents and had invaluable conversations with long-standing locals in the area. One neighbour, with over 25 years of experience running a holiday let, shared how oversaturation in the SA (Serviced Accommodation) market has led to prices being slashed by half, outside of peak season, which is a substantial loss in revenue to smaller business owners 😢. To add to that, the consolidation of the market, with Sykes Cottages acquiring many major local SA management companies this potentially could create added pressure on smaller operators, as well as smaller SA management companies. I think the smaller SA management companies have an edge over their biggest rivals, by being more creative with their advertising & the way they do their bookings 👌 A local holiday let specialist also offered a candid perspective on demand trends over the last few years. The message was consistent: the SA landscape is shifting, and not all areas are holding up. The same as a lot of lenders being reluctant to lend on SA’s or less you can prove very strong accounts. On the other hand, commercial conversions are showing more promise, though they come with their own challenges with planning, conservation areas, AONB, Listed Building consent and structural complexity among them. All in all, I’m incredibly grateful for the insights and honesty shared today. These real conversations are helping to shape the direction of my next moves. 👉 If you’re weighing up SA, commercial or R2SA opportunities in your area, let’s connect. I would love to exchange notes and experiences. #PropertyInvestment #CommercialConversions #ServicedAccommodation #HolidayLetTrends #RealEstateInsights #LocalKnowledge #InvestorCommunity #PropertyStrategy #LearningInAction #DueDiligence #OnTheGround

Posted by Dee at 2025-05-31 09:41:29 UTC