January: The Ideal Time for a Holiday Let Makeover

January is often a quieter month for holiday lets — fewer bookings, leads to a rare window to focus on improving your property without disrupting guests. While it may feel like an off-season lull, it’s actually one of the most valuable times of year to invest in your holiday let.

In a competitive market, first impressions still matter. Guests often decide where to stay within seconds, based largely on photos and overall presentation. A property that feels dated or tired is easily overlooked, while a refreshed, well-styled space immediately stands out.

That’s why a property makeover in January isn’t just cosmetic — it’s a smart, forward-thinking investment.

1. Make a Strong First Impression (Before the Busy Season)

With fewer guests coming and going, January is the perfect time to refresh décor, repaint walls, improve lighting, or update furnishings. Once complete, new professional photos can be taken and listings refreshed in plenty of time for spring and summer bookings.

2. Improve Guest Experience

Guests don’t just book a place to stay — they book comfort and experience. Upgrading beds, bed linen, key pieces of furniture, or adding a workspace during the quieter months ensures everything is ready when demand increases. These improvements often lead to better reviews, which directly impact future bookings.

3. Stay Competitive

A modern, well-maintained property is more likely to stand out in search results. January allows you to review competitor listings, follow emerging interior trends, or refine a unique style that sets your property apart before peak season returns.

4. Increase Revenue Potential

Properties that are well presented and thoughtfully designed can often command higher nightly rates. Even modest updates made during the off-season can deliver strong returns once bookings pick up later in the year.

5. Highlight What Makes Your Property Special

Whether it’s an outdoor seating area, a cosy reading nook, or an Instagram-worthy interior, January is the ideal time to enhance and showcase your property’s unique features — ready to be promoted across listings and social media.

Conclusion

A January makeover is more than a refresh — it’s a strategic move. Using the quieter months to improve style, comfort, and functionality puts your holiday let in the strongest possible position for the year ahead. Investing now allows you to welcome future guests with confidence and maximise bookings when it matters most