The Hidden Costs of Self-Managing a Serviced Accommodation Property

1. Is Self-Managing Really Cheaper?

At first glance, running your own serviced accommodation might seem like the cheaper option. No management fees, no middleman, just direct bookings and full control.

But many landlords quickly discover that self-managing often costs more than expected, not just in money but in time, effort, and missed opportunities.

At AV Hughes Properties, we speak with landlords who have tried self-managing before realising how much time and expense it really involved. Our expert management service helps landlords maximise income while keeping their investment completely hands-off. Keywords: self-managing serviced accommodation, serviced accommodation

2. Cleaning and Laundry Costs

Unlike traditional rentals, serviced accommodation properties need hotel-standard cleaning after every stay.

That means professional cleaners, fresh linen and towels for each guest, and restocking toiletries, coffee, and essentials.

Average cleaning fees per stay can range from £40 to £100+, depending on property size. For high-turnover properties, these costs quickly add up, and managing cleaners yourself can become a full-time job.

AV Hughes Properties manages this process end to end, coordinating reliable professional cleaners and ensuring every property meets our high guest-ready standards, saving landlords both time and stress.

3. Guest Communication and Support

Guest communication is constant. You’ll handle late check-ins and key issues, lost property, maintenance requests, review management, and messaging before, during, and after stays.

If you’re managing one property, it can take several hours per week. For multiple units, it’s practically a full-time role.

AV Hughes Properties provide proactive guest communication and support, ensuring every guest has a smooth experience and landlords properties maintain excellent reviews without lifting a finger.

4. Software, Subscriptions, and Tools

To stay competitive, self-managers often pay for software like channel managers to sync Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo, dynamic pricing tools, smart locks and security systems, and cleaning schedules and reporting apps.

These are essential for efficiency, but subscriptions can cost over £100 per month once you add everything up.

5. Time Commitment and Lost Opportunities

Even if you manage everything well, time is your biggest hidden cost.

Tasks include coordinating cleaners, replying to messages, updating listings and prices, and dealing with maintenance issues.

Many landlords underestimate how much time it takes, time that could be spent growing your portfolio, working, or simply relaxing.

Partnering with AV Hughes Properties means you reclaim your time while we handle every operational detail, giving you a truly hands-off investment.

6. Missed Revenue Potential

Without professional tools and experience, many self-managing landlords underprice or miss out on bookings.

A professional serviced accommodation manager such as AV Hughes Properties uses dynamic pricing algorithms to maximise income, listing optimisation for better visibility, and multi-platform marketing to increase occupancy.

The result is higher revenue, often more than enough to cover management fees.

7. Why Professional Management Can Save You Money

By outsourcing to a serviced accommodation management company like AV Hughes Properties, landlords benefit from consistent guest satisfaction and better reviews, reduced operational costs through bulk cleaning and supplies, higher occupancy rates with expert marketing, and peace of mind knowing everything is handled professionally.

📞 At AV Hughes Properties, we manage every part of your serviced accommodation, from guest communication to cleaning and pricing, so you can enjoy truly hands-off income. Get your free property assessment today.

8. Conclusion

Running your own serviced accommodation might seem straightforward, but once you factor in cleaning, guest management, software costs, and your own time, it rarely stays cost-effective Please see one of our recent reviews from a management client of AV Hughes Properties:

Review from one of AV Hughes Properties landlords

With AV Hughes Properties, you’ll have a dedicated management partner who looks after everything, maximises your property’s potential, and delivers consistent returns without the hassle.

👉 Find out more about how AV Hughes Properties can manage your property today 📱+44 7845 025299

📧 info@avhughesproperties.com