Why Property Type Matters in the Short-Term Rental Market
Choosing the right property type can make or break your success in Cambridge’s short-term rental market. While location is key, the type of property you offer will determine your target audience, occupancy rates, and profitability.
In a city known for its historic charm, academic excellence, and booming tech industry, different traveler segments—business professionals, academics, tourists, and families—seek different accommodation styles. Understanding what guests are looking for will help you maximize your bookings and revenue.
Top Property Types for Airbnb in Cambridge
Each property type has its own advantages depending on the guest demographic and rental demand.
1. Luxury City Centre Apartments – Ideal for Business Travelers & Academics
✔ Prime locations near the University of Cambridge, business hubs, and train station.✔ Preferred by corporate travelers, visiting academics, and high-end tourists.✔ High nightly rates, particularly during conference and graduation seasons.
2. Studio & One-Bedroom Flats – Best for Solo Travelers & Short Stays
✔ Ideal for solo tourists, digital nomads, and short-term business stays.✔ Lower maintenance and higher occupancy rates due to affordability.✔ Strong demand for properties in central Cambridge or near public transport.
3. Townhouses & Family Homes – Perfect for Tourists & Family Vacations
✔ Larger groups and families prefer spacious properties with multiple bedrooms.✔ Located in quieter residential areas but still accessible to attractions.✔ Higher profits on longer stays, particularly during summer and school holidays.
4. Serviced Apartments – A Growing Trend Among Professionals & Long-Term Guests
✔ Fully furnished apartments with hotel-style services (cleaning, concierge, etc.).✔ Growing demand among expats, relocators, and long-term business travelers.✔ High occupancy rates with corporate bookings & extended stays.
What Makes a Property Airbnb-Ready?
Regardless of property type, your rental needs to meet guest expectations to stay competitive.
✔ Prime Locations: Close to universities, research centers, business parks, and transport links.✔ Essential Amenities: High-speed WiFi, dedicated workspace, parking, and self-check-in (smart locks).✔ Interior Design: Stylish, modern, and professionally furnished to attract guests in listing photos.
Pros & Cons of Different Property Types
Property Type | Revenue Potential | Maintenance & Management |
Luxury City Centre Apartments | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (High) | Medium |
Studio & One-Bedroom Flats | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Moderate-High) | Low |
Townhouses & Family Homes | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (High) | High |
Serviced Apartments | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ (Very High) | Medium-High |
Each property type has different management needs, which is where professional Airbnb management services become invaluable.
How Professional Management Helps Optimize Each Property Type
✔ Tailored Pricing Strategies: Maximize revenue with dynamic pricing tools based on market trends.✔ Higher Occupancy Rates: Expert marketing and Airbnb SEO optimization attract more bookings.✔ Hassle-Free Hosting: Professional teams handle guest communication, cleaning, and maintenance.
How We Increased a Cambridge Landlord’s Revenue by 50%
A landlord with a two-bedroom city centre flat struggled with pricing and occupancy fluctuations. After joining Cambridge Stays, we:
✔ Optimized pricing based on seasonal demand.✔ Improved listing photos & descriptions to attract high-value guests.✔ Increased occupancy to 90%+, resulting in a 50% revenue boost.
Is Your Property Airbnb-Ready?
Different property types suit different travelers, but success in short-term rentals depends on expert pricing, professional listing management, and top-tier guest experiences.
📢 Not sure if your property is Airbnb-ready? Let Cambridge Stays handle everything for you.
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