Frequently Asked Questions

• We offer a comprehensive range of services for short-term rental properties

• Listing creation and optimisation on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Stayz.

• Set Up with a PMS to manage your property and give you a direct booking website

• Assistance with professional photography and property staging

• Dynamic pricing and revenue management

• Guest screening and communication

• Check-in and check-out management

• Management of cleaning and maintenance

• 24/7 guest support

• Financial reporting and payout management

Q: What's involved in getting started?

A: We begin with a friendly consultation, property assessment and revenue projection. Once you're ready to proceed, we'll provide a simple management agreement and comprehensive setup checklist. From there, we arrange professional photography and create optimised listings across all platforms.

Q: How long does the onboarding process take?

A: Typically 7-14 days from agreement signing to going live, depending on photography scheduling and property preparation.

Q: What documents do I need to provide?

A: We'll need basic property information, insurance details, and bank account for payments. Our onboarding checklist will guide you through everything required.

Q: Do I need to prepare the property?

A: Yes, we'll provide a detailed preparation guide. This includes essential items for guests, safety requirements, and recommendations for optimal presentation.

Q: When can I expect my first booking?

A: Once live, properties typically receive their first bookings within 1-4 weeks, depending on season and market conditions.

Q: How is my property managed financially?

A: We set you up with a Property Management System (PMS) in your name, giving you real-time visibility of your property's performance. All booking platforms and payments are set up directly in your name, ensuring complete transparency.

Q: How are payments processed?

A: For Stayz, Booking.com and your direct website bookings, our commission is automatically deducted through the Stripe payment system, with the balance instantly transferred to you. For Airbnb bookings, which handle payments differently, we'll send a monthly commission invoice.

Q: What access do I have to my property's performance?

A: Through your PMS login, you'll have 24/7 access to view bookings, occupancy rates, revenue, and all financial transactions in real-time. This puts you in complete control with full visibility of your property's performance.

Q: How are the booking platforms set up?

A: All booking platforms are set up in your name, with our team managing the listings and guest communications. This ensures you maintain ownership of your property's online presence and reviews.

Q: What if I already have existing platform listings?

A: If you have established listings with positive reviews, we can maintain and update your existing profiles to preserve your valuable reputation. Alternatively, we can pause existing listings and create fresh ones if you prefer a new start.

Q: What registrations are required for holiday rentals?

A: All NSW holiday rentals require three key registrations:

1. NSW Government's Department of Planning - Short-term Rental Accommodation Register

2. ASTRA (Australian Short Term Rental Accommodation) membership

3. Central Coast Council compliance requirements We'll guide you through all registration processes and help maintain ongoing compliance.

Q: What safety requirements do I need to meet?

A: Properties must have working smoke alarms, fire extinguishers, and first aid kits. We'll provide a comprehensive safety checklist and can arrange any necessary installations or certifications.

Q: Do I need special insurance?

A: Yes, standard home insurance typically doesn't cover short-term rentals. We recommend specific holiday rental insurance and can suggest suitable providers who understand the local market.

Q: What about pool safety?

A: Properties with pools must have current certification and compliant fencing according to NSW Swimming Pool Register requirements. We can arrange inspections and help organize any required upgrades.

Q: How do you ensure ongoing compliance?

A: We maintain a compliance calendar for each property, tracking registration renewals, safety checks, and certification requirements. We'll manage these requirements and keep you updated on any regulatory changes.Description text goes here

Q: How is cleaning handled?

A: Cleaning fees are paid directly by guests. We use professional, trusted cleaners who understand holiday rental standards and ensure your property is always guest-ready.

Q: What about linen service?

A: We manage all linen changeover logistics and laundry coordination between guest stays to ensure fresh, clean linen for every booking.

Q: How is property maintenance managed?

A: We conduct regular checks to ensure everything is guest-ready. For ongoing services like gardening and pool maintenance, we have reliable local partners we can recommend and coordinate with.

Q: What happens if something needs urgent repair?

A: We maintain a network of trusted local trades - plumbers, electricians, and other emergency services. We can either provide these contacts directly to guests or coordinate repairs on your behalf.

Q: What about household essentials?

A: We'll provide a comprehensive list of required guest essentials (such as cooking oil, shampoo, coffee) and notify you when items need replenishing. This ensures your property always meets guest expectations.

Q: What returns can I expect from short-term rentals?

A: Well-managed holiday properties typically achieve around 40% higher returns than long-term rentals. However, properties with desirable features like water views, beach access, or unique characteristics can see returns of 100-150% higher than long-term rentals. Initial setup costs like quality linens and guest amenities are typically recovered quickly through these higher rental rates.

Q: What upfront investments should I consider?

A: Starting a holiday rental requires some initial setup costs:

• Quality linen packages and towels

• Guest amenities and kitchen essentials

• Entertainment options (Smart TV, WiFi, etc.)

• Basic supplies and pantry items These investments typically see quick returns through higher nightly rates and positive guest reviews.

Q: What are the additional benefits beyond financial returns?

A: Short-term rentals offer unique advantages:

• Regular property inspections and maintenance at each changeover

• Freedom to use your property when you want

• Better property upkeep as issues are identified and fixed promptly

• Ability to enjoy your investment for family holidays or weekends away

Q: Why choose a local property manager?

A: As a Peninsula local who manages my own Umina Beach property at 85% occupancy, I understand what drives success in our market. My hands-on experience means:

• Strategic local pricing that maximises returns

• Understanding what drives five-star reviews in our area

• Knowledge of what Peninsula guests value and expect

• Quick response to local market changes

• Focus on experiences that command premium rates

Q: What influences my potential returns?

A: Several factors affect your earnings:

• Peak season and holiday periods attract premium rates

• Property location and unique features (especially water views or beach access)

• Quality of furnishings and amenities

• Local events and festivals

• School holidays and long weekends

Q: What Are Central Coast Getaway's Management Fees?

Q: What is your management commission?

A: We charge a 16% management fee on booking value, excluding cleaning and other guest fees.

Q: Are there any setup fees?

A: There's a one-off $350 setup fee which includes:

• Creation of optimised listings across all booking platforms

• Setting up your property management system

• Initial market analysis and pricing strategy

Q: What about photography packages?

A: Professional photography is essential for maximizing your property's appeal. Contact us directly to discuss packages tailored to your property's needs.

Q: Are there any other costs? A:

• Cleaning fees are charged directly to guests

• Linen changeover is coordinated by us

• Property maintenance and trades are charged as needed

• Compliance assistance packages available on requestItem description