A profitable low season: golf, remote work and longer winter stays

While northern Europe heads into months of cold and little daylight, the Costa del Sol keeps mild temperatures and plenty of sunny days. For a growing number of travellers it is the ideal time to come. A property closed from October to March does not just stop earning: it also deteriorates more than a home that is lived in.

Winter is not a dead season

The demand exists, but it is different. People book on other criteria, for longer periods and at more moderate rates. Anyone expecting to repeat August's results in November will be disappointed; anyone who adapts their offer achieves steady income during months they used to write off.

Three profiles that fill the calendar

• Golfers: autumn and spring are the high season for golf in the area. They travel in groups and value proximity to the courses and space to store their equipment.
• Remote workers: stays of two to six weeks, with one non-negotiable requirement: a good internet connection and a comfortable place to work.
• Winter residents: retirees from northern Europe who spend one or several months on the coast and who, if satisfied, return year after year.

Adapting the property for winter

Many homes on the coast are designed for summer only. In January, a house without effective heating is an uncomfortable house. Serviced heat pumps, warm bedding, good lighting and a kitchen equipped for everyday life are the factors that weigh most in the rating of a long stay.

"A property occupied in winter is aired, heated and watched over by itself. It is income and maintenance at the same time."

Price and terms

Weekly and monthly discounts are the usual tool for attracting long stays. For these it is advisable to agree in writing how utilities are handled, especially electricity, which can be considerable in winter, as well as the frequency of cleaning and linen changes.

Mind the legal framework

A let of several months is not governed by the same rules as a one-week tourist stay: the type of contract and the obligations of each party change. Before accepting a long stay it is advisable to confirm with your adviser which arrangement applies in your case. At Vellum Costa we guide you and coordinate the process with specialist professionals.