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How to prepare a property for short-term rental on the Costa del Sol – a guide for owners

Short-term rentals on the Costa del Sol are a great way to earn money, attracting tourists from around the world and increasingly popular with investors. But location alone isn't everything. For your property to stand out on the market and generate stable profits, it must be properly prepared.

At Home4You Costa del Sol Every day, we advise owners on how to optimize their offerings to meet guest expectations and market demands. Here are our proven tips:


1. Invest in professional photos

Your listing is often competing with dozens (or hundreds!) of similar apartments. The photo makes the first impression—it's what determines whether someone clicks on it. A professional photo shoot, appropriate lighting, and interior styling—it's an investment that pays off.

TIP: The space should look bright, airy, and fresh. Short videos or virtual tours also work well.

2. Make check-in and access to the apartment easier

Short-term rentals often involve independent arrivals and departures. Guests expect convenience and flexibility.
Consider:

  • Key safe or smart lock

  • Clear arrival instructions in several languages

  • Possibility of check-in without personal contact

This is especially important for late arrivals from Malaga Airport.


3. Take care of your guest's comfort

Guests will appreciate the details – they're what influence reviews and return visits. The apartment is sure to include:

  • Hotel-quality bed linen and towels

  • Starter kit: water, coffee, tea, olive oil

  • Efficient air conditioning (this is essential on the Costa del Sol!)

  • WiFi and smart TV

  • Guide with local attractions and recommendations

TIP: High ratings on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com are often due not to luxury, but to attention to detail.


4. Professional cleaning between stays

Hygiene standards must be maintained at the highest level – especially after the pandemic. Cleaning doesn't just mean "vacuuming." It means:

  • Textile exchange

  • Complementing welcome kits

  • Technical condition check (bulbs, remote controls, lock)

It is worth entrusting this to a proven company or cooperating with a local partner who regularly inspects the property.


5. Get a tourist license

In Andalusia, short-term rentals must be registered with the Tourist Registry (RTA) . Requirements include:

  • License number

  • Air conditioning in the summer season

  • First aid kit, evacuation instructions, emergency number

  • Submitting guest check-in reports

Don't have time for the formalities? At Home4You, we help owners through the entire process step by step.


Summary

Short-term rentals aren't just about listing a property. They're a complete service —from preparing the apartment, through managing reservations, to serving guests. A well-prepared property not only brings better reviews but also higher revenue .

Do you have a property on the Costa del Sol and want to rent it out?

Contact us – we will help you prepare it professionally and effectively enter the tourism market.

We operate in the area of Marbella – Estepona – Mijas – Fuengirola - Malaga and surrounding areas.

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