Are you a second homeowner in Oban or the surrounding areas?
From 1st April 2024, Argyll and Bute Council will introduce a 100% Council Tax premium on second homes, doubling your Council Tax costs.
But there’s a smart way to reduce this financial burden—convert your second home into a self-catering holiday let.
In this guide, we’ll explore how making this change can help you save money, generate income, and make the most of your property in the beautiful coastal town of Oban.
The Financial Challenge of Council Tax: Rising Costs for Second Homes
💷 What’s Changing?
Argyll and Bute Council has implemented a 100% premium on Council Tax for second homes, meaning second home owners will pay double the standard rate.
🛑 The Impact
These increased charges could make owning a second home in Oban more expensive, especially for properties that aren’t used year-round.
To learn more, visit the Argyll and Bute Council Tax leaflet.
The Solution: Convert Your Property into an Oban Holiday Cottage or Self-Catering Let
By registering your second home as self-catering accommodation, you can enjoy numerous financial and practical benefits:
1. Switch to Non-Domestic (Business) Rates 🧾
Reduce Costs: Properties used for short-term letting may qualify for Non-Domestic Rates, which are often cheaper than Council Tax.
Small Business Bonus Scheme: Properties with a rateable value under £15,000 could be eligible for up to 100% relief, saving you even more.
Learn more on the Scottish Government Non-Domestic Rates Relief page.
2. Earn Additional Income from Your Oban Holiday Property 💰
Rental Income: By welcoming guests year-round, you can earn additional income.
Offset Costs: Use your earnings to cover property expenses, maintenance, and improvements.
3. Meet Business Rates Criteria for Holiday Lets 📋
To qualify for Non-Domestic Rates, your Oban property must:
Be Available for Letting: Advertised as a self-catering holiday let for at least 140 days per year.
Be Actually Let: Booked for a minimum of 70 days annually.
More details are available on the Scottish Government Self-Catering Properties page.
4. Keep Your Oban Holiday Cottage Secure and Well-Maintained 🏠
Regular Upkeep: Frequent use means identifying and addressing maintenance issues promptly.
Enhanced Security: Occupied properties are less likely to face vandalism or unauthorized entry.
5. Enjoy Personal Use Flexibility 🌅
Even as a holiday let, you can block off dates in your booking calendar for personal stays, as long as you meet the letting requirements.
Why Choose Oban Holiday Lets?
At Oban Holiday Lets, we make turning your property into a successful holiday let simple and stress-free.
🌟 Expert Support
From registering your property for business rates to applying for relief, we’ll guide you every step of the way.
📣 Professional Marketing
We list your property on major platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and our own website to maximize visibility and bookings.
Check out our Oban holiday rental properties page to see how we help our clients succeed.
📈 Smart Pricing Strategies
Our dynamic pricing tools ensure you achieve the best possible rates all year round.
🛎️ Full-Service Property Management
From guest communication to coordinating cleaning and maintenance, we handle everything.
Discover the Benefits of an Oban Holiday Cottage Today
Don’t let the rising Council Tax premium weigh you down. Transform your second home into a profitable Oban holiday rental property and enjoy the rewards of holiday letting.
Get Started with Oban Holiday Lets
📧 Email: Natalie@obanholidaylets.com
🌐 Website: www.obanholidaylets.com
Let us help you turn your second home into a Scottish holiday cottage that works for you.
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