Booking-platform fees
Airbnb, Booking.com, Vrbo and other channels charge for distribution. Airbnb’s official guidance describes different host-fee structures, including split-fee and host-only models. The structure that applies can depend on the listing and account setup.
Ask whether platform charges are deducted before or after the management fee is calculated. This detail can materially change the final owner payout.
Cleaning, laundry and linen
Confirm who pays the cleaner, whether the cleaning charge is passed to the guest, who receives that charge, and whether towels and bed linen are supplied, rented or owner-funded. Also ask how stain treatment, replacement linen and unusually heavy cleaning are handled.
SunnyCoast’s linen programme—hotel-quality linen and towels, professional laundry and scheduled replacement—is included only with Platinum 25%. It is not included with Silver 18% or Gold 20%.
A cleaning fee charged to the guest should not automatically be treated as owner profit if it is being used to pay the turnover team.
Consumables and guest supplies
Toiletries, kitchen basics, coffee, bin bags, cleaning products and welcome items can improve the guest experience, but they still carry a cost. SunnyCoast HomeStays lists consumables as an extra under Silver and included under Gold and Platinum.
Maintenance and emergency work
Management may include arranging the contractor, while the repair, materials and call-out charge remain the owner’s responsibility. Ask whether there is a maintenance markup, an emergency spending limit and a requirement for owner approval above a set amount. A clear approval process protects both the home and the owner.
Utilities and fixed property costs
Electricity, water, internet, insurance, community fees, mortgage payments and property taxes continue regardless of who manages the rental. Air-conditioning and pool use can make utilities highly seasonal. Include these costs in your profitability calculation even though they are not management fees.