Hunters to short-let homes that are For Sale but awaiting buyers

Hunters is partnering with a PropTech firm to allow homes on the market and still awaiting buyers to be short-let for two nights or more.

The franchise giant is linking with Lavanda, a short-let platform; this will allow Hunters‘ sellers and landlord clients to receive income from very short-term lets.

Currently it is being trialled in Manchester but Glynis Frew, Hunters’ chief executive, says it will be rolled out nationally this year.

Every property under the Lavanda partnership will be advertised on major short-let websites including Airbnb, Booking.com, HomeAway and Expedia.

“Today the service is live in Manchester and we are planning to roll it out to major cities nationwide over the course of the next 12 months” says Frew.

“Much to the frustration of vendors, the recent slow sales market has led to swathes of prime property sitting empty. This has not only resulted in vendors suffering a significant loss of income, but not facilitating a quick sale can also damage the agent’s reputation with their client” explains Guy Westlake, chief executive and co-founder of Lavanda.

“Our solution regularly unlocks tens of thousands of pounds in additional income for vendors. We are really excited to offer our services to Hunters’ future and existing clients and feel proud to be working with one of the UK’s leading and fastest growing agents” he adds.

The first project being piloted is a central Manchester residence, where a range of studio apartments are available from £750 per month.