Getting Started
How does short-term property management work?
You provide the property; we handle listing it, pricing it, managing guests, cleaning between stays, maintenance and compliance. You receive regular reporting and income, without doing the day-to-day work yourself. See our full breakdown of how short-term property management works.
Is there an upfront fee?
No — there are no upfront fees to get started with Ichiban Stays.
Do I need to be present or available during guest stays?
No. Your dedicated manager and our team handle guest communication, check-in/check-out and any issues that come up.
Which areas do you cover?
We manage properties across the UK. In London we cover all 32 boroughs and the City of London, from central neighbourhoods to outer boroughs, and we also manage properties in major cities nationwide. See the areas we cover. If you’re not sure your area works for short lets, ask in your free consultation and we’ll give you an honest view.
How long does it take to get my property live?
It depends on the property’s condition and how much it needs before the first guests arrive. After your consultation we’ll give you a clear onboarding plan and timeline before anything starts.
Do I need to furnish the property myself?
Not necessarily. We advise on furnishing and presentation so the property meets guest expectations, and we can help prepare it as part of onboarding.
Regulation & Compliance
Do I need planning permission for a short let?
Whole-property short lets in London are currently capped at 90 nights per calendar year without planning permission. Outside London, short-let rules are set locally and vary by council and nation, so we check the position for your property before it goes live. We factor this into how every property is managed. See our detailed guide to short-term rental regulations in London.
Is my property and data handled securely?
Yes — your data is kept secure throughout our management of your property.
What should I check before letting my property short-term?
Check that your lease, mortgage lender and insurance all allow short-term letting. You also need the usual safety checks in place, such as a gas safety certificate, an electrical safety report, smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, and a fire risk assessment. We’ll help you work through the list during onboarding.
Income & Suitability
How much could my property earn as a short let?
It depends on location, property type and size. Get a free, no-obligation income projection for your specific property.
Is short-term letting more profitable than a standard tenancy?
It can be, though it depends on the property and how actively it’s managed. Read our comparison: Airbnb vs traditional tenancy for landlords.
How do you set nightly prices?
We use PriceLabs dynamic pricing, so rates adjust to demand, seasonality and local events. Your dedicated manager reviews pricing regularly rather than leaving it on autopilot.
How will I know how my property is performing?
You get regular reports on bookings, income and any maintenance carried out, and your dedicated manager is always one message away. Our in-house property management software keeps everything in one place, so updates are accurate and on time.