A Guide for London Homeowners: Letting out a spare room Monday to Friday
As a London homeowner, if you’re considering letting out a spare room on a Monday to Friday basis, you’re in good company. This arrangement has become increasingly popular, particularly in urban areas like London where professionals and students seek a cost-effective, comfortable alternative to long-term leases. This blog post will guide you through room preparations, help you think about what type of lodger you might want, and explain the advantages—both financial and practical—of Monday to Friday lets, including the benefits of the UK Government’s Rent-a-Room scheme. We’ll also highlight why GetDigs.co.uk is the number one platform for Monday to Friday lets in the UK.
Preparing Your Spare Room: What to Consider
When preparing your spare room for a lodger, it’s essential to make it feel welcoming and comfortable while keeping practicality in mind. Here are some key tips:
- Clean and declutter: Start by deep cleaning the room and removing any personal items. Keep the decor simple, and think about what a professional or student would need to feel at home for a few days each week.
- Furnish thoughtfully: Provide basic but high-quality furniture. A bed with a good mattress, storage space (such as a wardrobe or chest of drawers), a desk, and a chair are essentials. If your lodger will be working remotely, a designated workspace will be a big plus.
- Provide amenities: Think about what would make the room feel homely and functional. Fresh bedding, towels, good lighting, a mirror, and perhaps a small TV or reliable Wi-Fi are great additions. If the room is well-equipped, it’s more likely to attract lodgers who are professionals or students looking for a comfortable place to rest during the week.
- Ensure privacy: Consider adding blackout curtains, soundproofing if needed, and even a lock on the door to give your lodger peace of mind during their stay.
What Kind of Lodger Should You Look For?
Now that your room is ready, it’s time to consider what type of lodger would be the best fit for your household. Are you hoping for a quiet, independent professional who will spend most of their time at work or a nearby university? Or perhaps a student who needs a peaceful place to study during the week?
- Professionals: Many professionals working in London seek Monday to Friday lets as a way to avoid long commutes or expensive city rentals. They tend to be low-maintenance, as they often only need a place to sleep during the week and will go home on weekends. This can offer a balance if you enjoy your privacy over the weekends while making the most of your spare room during the weekdays.
- Students: If you live near a university, you may want to consider renting to a student. University students often need a quiet place to study and are likely to be away during weekends. If you’re happy to offer a supportive environment with study amenities, this could be a good match.
Ultimately, consider the lifestyle you’re most comfortable with. Both students and professionals can make excellent lodgers, but it’s important to think about your expectations.
Advantages of the Monday to Friday Let Model
One of the main advantages of the Monday to Friday let model is flexibility. Because lodgers only stay during the working week, homeowners retain the privacy of their homes on weekends. Additionally, this type of arrangement generally leads to less wear and tear on your property, since the lodger isn’t a full-time resident.
Another benefit is the ease of managing such lets. With lodgers only staying for part of the week, you can avoid potential conflicts that arise with full-time tenants while still generating income from the spare room.
Financial Benefits and the Rent-a-Room Scheme
The UK Government’s Rent-a-Room scheme allows homeowners to earn up to £7,500 per year tax-free by renting out a furnished room in their home. This can make letting out your spare room a particularly attractive financial option, especially if you’re renting on a part-time basis like a Monday to Friday let.
With Monday to Friday lets, you’re likely to have fewer bills and costs to manage, as your lodger will generally only be there for a few days each week. This could mean lower utility bills, less use of communal areas, and an overall more affordable arrangement for both you and the lodger.
Why GetDigs.co.uk Is the Number 1 Platform for Monday to Friday Lets
If you’re looking for a simple and effective way to connect with lodgers, GetDigs.co.uk is the leading platform for Monday to Friday lets in the UK. It specializes in connecting professionals and students with homeowners like you, making it easier to find a lodger who fits your preferences. With a user-friendly platform and a focus on part-time rentals, GetDigs.co.uk takes the hassle out of advertising and managing your let.
Preparing Your Home for a Lodger
Beyond preparing the room, consider the other aspects of your home that will impact your lodger’s experience. Ensure that shared spaces like the kitchen and bathroom are clean and accessible. Clear some storage space in the kitchen for your lodger’s food, and make sure they have access to any necessary appliances. It’s also worth discussing house rules—such as smoking, noise levels, or guests—before your lodger moves in to avoid misunderstandings later. These issues are well covered in the Getdigs.co.uk website.
What Should Be Included in the Weekly Cost?
When setting your weekly rent, consider what will be included. Will you cover utilities like electricity, gas, water, and Wi-Fi? How about cleaning services or providing fresh linen? These small details can make a big difference to prospective lodgers and should be reflected in the price.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to letting out your spare room and enjoying the benefits of a Monday to Friday arrangement. Happy letting!
If you have any queries please contact us at admin@getdigs.co.uk