Keen interstate investors are purchasing Sunshine Coast properties to use as Airbnbs, without even setting foot in the region.
Buyers are making the most of the area’s booming property and domestic tourism markets.
Caloundra-based interior designer Hilary Sharp of Box Clever Interiors has seen a dramatic increase in enquiries from people in Sydney, Melbourne and beyond, looking to leverage the opportunities on the Sunshine Coast.
With the help of local professionals on the ground, it’s clear it is not only Queenslanders who are benefitting from the increasing popularity of the Sunshine State.
“The region is pumping, fuelled by a growing property and rental market, coupled with increased domestic tourism growth,” Ms Sharp said.
“We’ve experienced both sides of the property equation, with our property staging and home styling services on offer.”
The demand for short stay and long-term rentals is unprecedented on the Sunshine Coast and regional tourism has seen a massive rise in the rental Airbnb market with COVID-19 removing the option of international holidays.
“Holiday-makers are expecting more from their experience and standard of accommodation,” Ms Sharp said.
“With international holidays off the cards, many want the five-star luxury treatment from here.
“We specialise in transforming ordinary properties into outstanding holiday lets that carry individual personality and stories. These amazing transformations have helped raise property profiles and maximise their rental incomes”.
Property owner Jacinta McHutchison is reaping the reward of a fully booked and highly rated Sunshine Coast Airbnb after they consulted local professionals in the area to style, furnish and photograph their property.
“We reached out to Hilary and the Box Clever Interiors team, who took our ideas and budget and added so much value to the property that my husband and I could never have done on our own,” she said.
“The process was very straightforward, they provided options with varied prices, and we gave our input.”
Mrs McHutchison said using a professional in the area ensured a smooth process, especially when buyers were not able to check things out for themselves.
“There was a moment where we didn’t think certain beds would fit in a bedroom, we couldn’t really visualise it, but with the team on the ground they checked it all out, told us it would work, and it turned out perfectly,” she said.
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Having expert eyes on the ground can also help property owners identify unique opportunities.
In Mrs McHutchison’s case, her design team not only selected unique furniture pieces for their home, but also planned and helped them source local builders to convert an open plan area upstairs into a fifth bedroom and reading nook to enable larger groups to book the home.
“We get so many messages sent to us directly as well as on our Airbnb reviews with compliments about the property,” she said.
“When we uploaded the professional shots with all the styling in place, we found ourselves fully booked for the summer and we are now currently 4-5 weeks booked in advance through winter.”
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Mrs McHutchinson’s Airbnb listing has achieved a 5-star rating with many reviews complementing the style, function and spaciousness of the property.
“This was an amazing Airbnb! The hosts were so thoughtful, considerate, flexible and friendly,” guest Renee said.
“The house felt like a hotel with all rooms finished with beautiful quality bedding, furniture and the house was styled beautifully. The pool and entertainment area was spacious and practical. The house was so organised and had EVERYTHING!
“This would suit a weekend away with family or friends with child friendly facilities. We were so pleased with our stay and the personal items left for us made the stay so special! We highly recommend this Airbnb!”
To book Jacinta’s Airbnb: http://www.airbnb.com.au/rooms/44039551
