Short Lets: New body bids to make sector more professional

A new trade body is being set up in a bid to professionalise the short lets sector.

The sector - which embraces such firms as Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, HomeAway and others - has been the subject of sharp criticism from some letting agents and many other organisations because of alleged poor management of tenants, anti-social behaviour, and the long term effect of losing mainstream rental units to short lets.

Now the body, called the Professional Host Alliance, claims its “mission is to accelerate the professionalisation of a sustainable, global short-term rental sector and build trust in the homesharing economy.”

This includes creating a more uniform experience for tenants and building “a sustainable and futureproof short-term rental ecosystem.”

It’s being promoted by PropTech firm Lavanda and says short-term rental operators and property managers of any size and type from around the world are encouraged to apply for membership.

Those who join will also be eligible for “exclusive business growth opportunities, industry trends and insights” as well as training and marketing programmes.

“The Professional Host Alliance is the missing catalyst that is necessary to professionalise the short-term rental industry and unlock a step-change in the experiences of guests and hosts globally,” comments Guy Westlake, founder of Lavanda and chairman of the new body.

"With better support, partnerships, tools and access to information, professional hosts will be able to innovate faster and realise the hugely exciting potential in this sector.”