11 Best Airbnb Management Companies in London: Expert Picks

Running an Airbnb property in London can be overwhelming. Managing bookings, coordinating cleaners, handling guest communications, and ensuring smooth check-ins can stretch property owners thin.

The competitive London short-let market requires professional expertise to maximise occupancy rates and rental income.

Professional Airbnb management companies offer solutions that handle every aspect of your property so you can focus on other priorities. These services include guest communication, dynamic pricing, property maintenance, and multi-platform listings.

We’ve evaluated the leading management companies across London. This guide helps you choose the best service for your property and investment goals.

1) JF Property Partners

JF Property Partners is a top Airbnb management company in London. We deliver service that sets us apart from other firms in the capital.

Our guests praise our responsive customer service. When issues arise, we respond quickly and usually arrive on-site within 15 minutes.

We accommodate guest needs with flexibility, including early check-ins when possible. Our properties feature clean, spacious rooms for larger groups.

We maintain high standards across all our managed properties. Guests enjoy well-sized rooms and ample space.

Our rapid response system shows our commitment to guest satisfaction. We monitor properties closely and address concerns promptly.

Property owners benefit from our proven management track record. We handle guest communications and property maintenance efficiently.

Our team’s local expertise in London’s rental market ensures optimal occupancy rates and revenue. We understand the unique needs of different neighbourhoods.

Guest feedback highlights our reliability and professionalism. This reputation brings repeat bookings and positive reviews for property owners.

2) GuestReady

GuestReady is an award-winning Airbnb management company in London. They manage properties globally and bring experience to the UK market.

The company offers management services that include property listing optimisation and professional photography.

GuestReady provides 24/7 guest support throughout the booking process. Guests receive assistance whenever they need help during their stay.

Management fees start from 12% of rental income. This pricing allows property owners to retain most earnings while receiving full management support.

They maximise rental income using data-driven strategies for pricing and occupancy. GuestReady handles cleaning and maintenance coordination to ease daily operations for owners.

With a global presence, they understand international traveller expectations. This helps them deliver consistent service standards across properties.

Property owners can expect professional handling of their Airbnb operations. GuestReady manages everything from listing creation to guest checkout.

3) Houst

Houst is one of the largest Airbnb management companies in London. The company started in 2015 and has grown into a global service provider.

Houst manages bookings, guest communication, and property maintenance. They provide professional photography and create listings on multiple platforms.

They list properties on Airbnb, Expedia, Vrbo, and Homelike. This multi-platform approach increases booking opportunities for hosts.

Houst offers a mobile app for real-time access to booking data. Hosts can track earnings and property performance through the app.

Management fees start from 12% of rental income. Houst claims hosts can earn up to 56% more than traditional tenancies.

Houst has managed around 250,000 bookings across five continents. The company operates in multiple countries beyond the UK.

Services include guest meet-and-greets, cleaning between stays, and property maintenance. This appeals to investors seeking professional, hands-off management.

4) Pass The Keys

Pass the Keys is a trusted Airbnb management company in London. They began operations in 2015 and have built a loyal client base.

Pass the Keys offers comprehensive services, handling listings on Airbnb and Booking.com, guest support, and cleaning.

The company provides 24/7 guest support. Their team manages all guest communications and handles any issues that arise.

Pass the Keys uses price optimisation strategies to maximise rental income. They adjust rates based on demand, seasons, and local events.

Their commission structure varies by property. You receive payment as soon as guests check in, improving cash flow.

The Financial Times, FinBuzz, and London Business School have recommended Pass the Keys. They maintain excellent online reviews from both owners and guests.

They offer full-service management, so property owners can remain hands-off while they handle all aspects of short-let management.

5) City Relay

City Relay has operated as a London Airbnb management company since 2015. They offer end-to-end services for property owners and investors.

The company manages properties across London near popular attractions. They handle both short-term and long-term rentals to maximise returns.

City Relay offers dedicated reception spaces for guests. Guests can check in face-to-face, leave luggage, and receive local recommendations.

They list properties on Airbnb, Zoopla, and Rightmove. Their smart pricing system aims to optimise occupancy rates and guest satisfaction.

Property owners get access to Opago, City Relay’s management platform. Owners can monitor portfolio performance through this system.

City Relay blends short, mid, and long-term stays. They handle cleaning, maintenance, and guest services as part of their offering.

Their established presence in London’s market makes them a reliable choice for professional management.

6) Your AirHost

Your AirHost provides flexible short-term rental management in London. They offer solutions for property owners seeking to maximise income.

The company handles corporate bookings, short-term lets, medium-term stays, and monthly reservations. This flexibility helps adapt to market demands.

Your AirHost focuses on unlocking the rental value of properties. They help hosts maximise income through professional management.

Services are tailored for owners wanting full-service management. Your AirHost positions itself as a solution for optimising rental returns.

Their approach suits both new and experienced hosts. They handle operational complexities so owners can focus on other priorities.

7) Smarthost

Smarthost is a PropTech company operating across London. They help property owners maximise rental revenue with complete Airbnb management.

Smarthost creates listings, manages bookings, and handles guest communication. Their services also cover payments, cleaning, and property maintenance.

They use technology and hospitality expertise to maximise earnings for owners. Smarthost serves both single-property owners and those with multiple properties.

Their approach covers the entire guest experience from booking to checkout. Property owners can rely on a comprehensive service package, including guest meet-and-greets and ongoing care.

Smarthost aims to simplify hosting while maximising property potential for clients.

8) Hostmaker

Hostmaker operates in several European cities, including London. They offer premium hotel-like customer service for Airbnb management.

The company performs regular property checks to ensure everything stays in working order. Hostmaker has an in-house interior design studio to help improve your flat’s appearance for better prices and ratings.

They handle bookings and guest communication. Hostmaker focuses on maintaining high service standards and offers end-to-end management services.

They compete with other major companies like Airsorted and Pass The Keys. Hostmaker aims to simplify hosting by combining property management with design services.

9) HelloGuest

HelloGuest has managed Airbnb properties in London since 2013. They offer a full-service approach, from professional listings to guest meet-and-greets.

The company manages over 500 short-let rentals across London and more than 200 properties in the City of London area.

HelloGuest charges fees starting from 12%. Property owners can keep up to 88% of their income, which is higher than many competitors.

Services include property optimisation, guest greeting, cleaning, and maintenance. HelloGuest handles bookings across multiple platforms, including Airbnb and Rightmove.

They have earned five-star ratings and maintain 95% positive reviews from clients. HelloGuest describes itself as a boutique company that has grown significantly.

The company also operates in Edinburgh, Glasgow, Liverpool, Brighton, and Manchester. They offer hassle-free management and focus on maximising rental income for owners.

10) UpperKey

UpperKey is one of London’s leading Airbnb management companies. They offer a unique business model that differs from traditional services.

UpperKey becomes your sole tenant rather than just managing your property. They guarantee monthly rent payments even if your property sits empty.

They offer rent payments up to 12 months in advance and charge no onboarding fees. Their service includes full property management, from bookings to cleaning and maintenance.

UpperKey achieves around 77% occupancy rates across managed properties. They focus on long-term bookings through partnerships with Asian businesses.

UpperKey guarantees rent for up to three years in some cases. This provides predictable income and removes the stress of vacancy periods.

Commission ranges from 15-20% including tax. They maintain a 5-star rating on Google and handle everything from guest communication to maintenance.

11) StayinLondon

StayinLondon is a local property management company specialising in short-term and monthly rentals. They have built their reputation over nine years in the Airbnb management sector.

The company charges from 12% plus VAT for management services. This makes them competitive with other London-based firms.

StayinLondon focuses on Central London properties and offers personalised service. Their team handles guest meet-and-greets in person and provides 24/7 support during stays.

They maintain strong client reviews and high occupancy rates. Their smaller size allows more tailored attention to each property owner.

StayinLondon manages bookings, cleaning, maintenance, and guest communication. Property owners receive dedicated account management with specific managers assigned to each property.

Their service covers both short stays and longer monthly arrangements. This flexibility helps maximise rental income throughout the year.

How Airbnb Management Companies Add Value

Management companies handle the daily tasks that turn rental properties into profitable businesses. They focus on three core areas: creating professional listings, setting prices, and providing round-the-clock guest support.

Professional Property Marketing

Management companies create listings that stand out in London’s competitive market. They use professional photographers to capture high-quality images of your property’s best features.

Quality photography makes a big difference in booking rates. Companies know which angles work best and how to stage rooms properly.

They often reshoot photos seasonally to keep listings fresh. Compelling descriptions highlight unique selling points and address common guest concerns.

Professional copywriters use proven keywords to improve search rankings on Airbnb’s platform. Multi-platform presence means your property appears on sites like Booking.com, Expedia, and others.

This increases your property’s visibility without extra effort from you. Management companies also handle listing optimisation.

They monitor performance metrics and adjust titles, descriptions, and amenities to keep search rankings high.

Dynamic Pricing Strategies

Pricing affects your rental income more than any other factor. Management companies use advanced tools to adjust rates based on demand, events, and seasonal patterns.

Revenue management software analyses competitor pricing, local events, and booking trends. Rates change automatically, often several times per day.

Market analysis helps identify peak periods for premium rates. Companies track everything from football matches to major conferences.

Seasonal adjustments reflect tourist patterns and business travel cycles. Summer rates target leisure travellers, while winter pricing attracts business guests and long-term stays.

Last-minute pricing helps secure bookings that might otherwise go to competitors. Rates drop strategically for unsold nights to protect your overall revenue.

Guest Communication and Support

Round-the-clock guest support reduces your workload and improves booking rates and reviews. Management companies handle all communication from initial enquiries through checkout.

24/7 availability ensures guests get immediate responses no matter the time zone. This responsiveness boosts booking conversion rates and guest satisfaction.

Professional messaging uses templates that answer common questions efficiently. Companies keep a consistent tone and branding in all guest interactions.

Check-in coordination covers keyless entry systems, property tours, and local recommendations. Guests receive detailed instructions before arrival and contact numbers for any issues.

Issue resolution includes maintenance problems and neighbour complaints. Experienced teams handle these situations quickly so you don’t have to get involved.

Key Considerations When Choosing an Airbnb Management Company

Selecting the right Airbnb management company requires careful evaluation of their service offerings, pricing models, and legal compliance. These factors directly impact your property’s profitability and success.

Service Inclusions and Exclusions

Management companies offer different service packages. Examine what each company includes in their standard and premium offerings.

Essential services usually cover guest communication, booking management, and basic cleaning. Most companies handle check-ins, property listings, and pricing adjustments as part of their core package.

Premium services can include interior design consultations, professional photography, and maintenance coordination. Some companies provide welcome amenities, key management systems, and 24/7 guest support.

Review exclusions carefully. Many companies charge extra for deep cleaning, linen replacement, or emergency repairs.

Marketing fees, professional photography updates, and inventory restocking may also cost extra.

Common exclusions include:

• Utility bill payments
• Council tax management
• Insurance claims handling
• Major maintenance work
• Property renovations

Fee Structures in London

London management companies typically charge between 15% and 35% of gross rental income. Higher-end areas like Kensington and Chelsea often see rates at the upper end of this range.

Commission-based pricing is most common. Companies take a percentage of each booking, aligning their success with yours.

This model ranges from 18% to 30% in central London. Flat-fee structures charge monthly rates regardless of occupancy.

These usually cost £200 to £800 per month depending on property size and included services. Compare total costs, not just headline percentages.

A 20% commission with cleaning and maintenance may be cheaper than 15% with extra fees. Additional fees to consider:

• Setup costs (£100-£500)
• Photography (£150-£400)
• Check-in fees (£25-£50 per guest)
• Cleaning surcharges
• Marketing fees

Regulatory Compliance

London’s short-term rental regulations require strict adherence. Management companies must understand local council requirements and planning permissions.

Licensing obligations vary by borough. Westminster requires registration for properties let for more than 30 nights annually.

Camden has similar restrictions with extra safety requirements. Verify that management companies handle licence applications and renewals.

Non-compliance can lead to fines up to £20,000 per property. Safety compliance includes smoke alarm installation, gas safety certificates, and electrical inspections.

Professional management companies should coordinate these checks and keep proper documentation. Key compliance areas:

• Council registration and licensing
• Fire safety equipment
• Gas safety certificates (annual)
• Electrical safety inspections
• Insurance requirements
• Tax reporting obligations

Management companies should provide regular compliance updates and handle all regulatory correspondence for you.

Conclusion

The right Airbnb management company in London can turn your rental property into a profitable investment. These companies handle guest communications, cleaning, and maintenance.

Top management companies offer full-service solutions that boost occupancy rates and rental income. They use professional photography, dynamic pricing, and 24/7 guest support to maximise your property’s potential.

At JF Property Partners, we know the London rental market and can help you with your property investment. Visit https://jfpropertypartners.com/ to learn how we can support your goals and connect you with the right management solutions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Property owners often have questions about choosing management companies and maximising rental income. Here are common concerns about Airbnb management services in London.

Which Airbnb management company is best?

The best Airbnb management company depends on your needs and property type. JF Property Partners offers personalised service and local expertise.

GuestReady provides comprehensive technology solutions. Houst uses automated systems and competitive pricing.

Pass The Keys focuses on full-service management with transparent fees. City Relay specialises in premium properties in central London.

Compare commission rates, included services, and client reviews. Look for companies that handle guest communication, cleaning, maintenance, and multi-platform listings.

How much do Airbnb management companies charge in the UK?

Most Airbnb management companies in London charge 12% to 25% commission on gross rental income. Basic services usually start at 12-15% plus VAT.

Full-service management often costs 18-25% of your total bookings. This includes guest communication, professional cleaning, maintenance, and multi-platform listings.

Some companies charge extra for services like photography or deep cleaning. Always ask for a complete cost breakdown before signing contracts.

What is a good booking percentage on Airbnb?

A good occupancy rate for London Airbnb properties ranges from 65% to 85% annually. Central London locations often achieve higher rates due to steady business and tourist demand.

Properties in Zone 1 and 2 usually see occupancy rates above 70%. Seasonal variations affect booking percentages, with summer months showing higher demand.

Professional management companies often achieve 10-20% higher occupancy rates than self-managed properties. They use dynamic pricing and multi-platform listings to maximise bookings.

How to boost your Airbnb bookings?

Professional photography increases booking rates and allows for higher nightly prices. High-quality images showcase your property’s best features.

List your property on multiple booking platforms such as Booking.com, Vrbo, and Expedia. This increases visibility and booking opportunities.

Respond quickly to guest enquiries and maintain excellent reviews. Properties with 4.8+ star ratings receive priority in search results.

Use dynamic pricing tools to adjust rates based on demand, events, and seasonal trends. This maximises revenue during peak periods and keeps rates competitive during quieter times.

Can you recommend some Airbnb management agencies with a strong presence in London?

JF Property Partners offers personalised service with dedicated account managers. They focus on maximising revenue through local expertise.

GuestReady provides technology-driven solutions with 24/7 guest support and comprehensive care. Houst specialises in automated systems and competitive commissions.

Pass The Keys offers transparent pricing and full-service management across London. City Relay focuses on premium properties in prime central locations.

What do Airbnb management companies in London typically handle for property owners?

Management companies handle guest communication from the initial enquiry to checkout. They respond to questions, provide check-in instructions, and resolve issues during stays.

Professional cleaning takes place after each guest leaves. Companies coordinate key exchanges and property inspections.

They also handle maintenance requests. Management teams list properties on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, and Vrbo.

They use dynamic pricing to adjust rates based on demand and local events. Most companies provide monthly financial reports and manage guest reviews.

They coordinate repairs when needed. Management companies restock essential amenities for each stay.