Short-term online rental service launches

A service that enables sales and lettings agents to make money from short term rentals using prime properties that are awaiting sale or long-term lets has been unveiled. Lavanda.co.uk, which specialises in ‘super short-term’ upmarket rentals, has launched a version of its service just for agents, claiming to be the first of its kind within the property sector. The company claims its service will enable agents to make money from vacant properties at a time when many are worrying about generating revenue after the tenant fees ban is introduced next year, and that the service is fully compliant with existing UK law. Lavanda prices up empty properties for agents and then rents them out and says it can also put furniture temporarily into unfurnished properties. It will also vet potential short-term tenants, provide “hotel-style housekeeping”, a 24-7 concierge service and someone to meet and greet tenants when they arrive. Short-term rentals Properties will be advertised on the main short-term rental websites including Airbnb, Booking.com, HomeAway and Expedia. The service will be rolling out in London at first but is expected to go nationwide next year within cities. Lavanda recently raised £1.5 million in funding from investors including Sir Terry Leahy,…