Ever wondered what it takes to run a successful short-term rental property on the Sunshine Coast? This fascinating deep dive with Chris Doherty-Fisher, General Manager of Sunny B&B, unveils the mechanics behind managing 80 holiday properties spread across 50 kilometres of coastline.
Chris reveals eye-opening statistics about the extraordinary returns possible in this market, with Coolum, Mooloolaba and Maroochydore all ranking among Australia's top 10 suburbs for short-term rental yields—delivering approximately 80% higher returns than traditional rentals. For property investors considering this path, he offers candid advice about what truly works, from proximity to beaches (the closer the better) to the must-have amenities that drive bookings.
The conversation demystifies common misconceptions, like the belief that short-term rentals significantly impact housing affordability (census data shows only 2% of rental properties nationwide are in the short-term market), and the assumption that booking far in advance guarantees the best rates (often the opposite is true thanks to dynamic pricing models). Chris shares insider knowledge about guest preferences, including why air fryers have become one of the most requested kitchen appliances and how pet-friendly properties can substantially widen your booking potential.
Beyond the business aspects, we explore Chris's fascinating journey from cocktail bartender to managing a thriving family business, his passion for systems and logistics, and the challenges of coordinating cleaners, maintenance staff, and guest experiences across dozens of properties. His insights into property management software, damage prevention strategies, and the art of creating memorable guest experiences provide a masterclass for anyone interested in the short-term rental space.
Whether you're a property investor considering holiday rentals, a curious traveler wanting to understand how these operations work, or someone fascinated by the evolution of the accommodation industry, this episode delivers valuable knowledge directly from someone at the coalface of this dynamic market.