If you’ve ever wondered what salary a holiday rental owner really earns, the answer isn’t always straightforward. The income can vary widely depending on where you work, the type of properties you manage, and the services you provide.
In coastal regions like the Mornington Peninsula, where short-term rentals and luxury beach houses are in high demand, a skilled property owner can earn impressive annual income through management fees and commissions. Let’s take a closer look at what this role involves – and how professionals like Go Coastal make it both rewarding and sustainable.
Average Salary of a Holiday Rental Owner
When it comes to what salary a holiday rental owner can really earn, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Income depends on factors like property type, location, and the scope of services offered.
In high-demand destinations such as the Mornington Peninsula, experienced property owners who handle guest relations, bookings, and maintenance can achieve strong annual earnings through a combination of base income, commissions, and service fees.
Average income overview:
- Average annual salary (Mornington Peninsula): $75,975 per year (Ref: source)
- Typical commission rate: 20–30% of rental income
- Additional earnings: Cleaning and maintenance coordination fees
- Location-based variation: Higher rates in coastal or tourist-heavy areas.
- Top-performing homes: Luxury or larger properties can exceed $100,000–$150,000 annually, especially in peak seasons
The Role of a Holiday Rental Owner
A holiday rental owner is ultimately the person who owns the property and earns income from short-term guests – but how hands-on that role is depends on how the property is managed.
At its core, the role involves overseeing the guest experience and property performance, whether you do it yourself or through a management partner.
Key responsibilities include:
- Reaching out to potential guests: Using established networks, travel websites, personalised property copywriting, photography, and advertising to attract bookings.
- Cleaning and maintenance: Coordinating reliable housekeeping and maintenance teams so owners can enjoy peace of mind and consistent property standards.
- Guest check-in and check-out: Handling key exchanges and ensuring guests feel welcomed and supported throughout their stay.
- Customer service: Offering seven-day support to resolve issues quickly and enhance guest satisfaction.
- Financial management: Setting seasonal pricing, managing income and expenses, and providing detailed reports to property owners.
Each Go Coastal property owner also enjoys access to a secure Owner Portal, where they can easily track bookings, monitor income, and even make their own reservations – making the process as transparent and stress-free as possible.
Factors Influencing Income of a Holiday Rental Owner
Income for a holiday rental owner isn’t fixed – it’s shaped by real market conditions, the calibre of properties under management, and the owner’s professional skill set. After decades of experience managing homes across the Mornington Peninsula, one thing is clear: consistency and strategy determine who earns steady returns versus those who struggle with off-peak fluctuations.
Geographical Factors
The Mornington Peninsula alone shows how location reshapes earning potential. owners overseeing homes near Rye’s foreshore, Sorrento, or Portsea often see higher returns thanks to the area’s year-round demand and premium guest expectations. By contrast, properties further inland or in quieter suburbs may attract lower commissions – usually around 10–15% – but steadier off-season bookings from families or long-term guests.
In short, understanding micro-markets matters. The closer a property is to beaches, wineries, or popular walking trails, the more leverage a owner has when setting pricing and commission rates.
Types of Property
Income potential also scales with the property’s quality and capacity. A well-maintained five-bedroom coastal home with spa amenities can yield management fees far higher than a compact beach shack.
The difference isn’t just in size – it’s in guest expectations. Premium guests expect professional presentation, tailored communication, and flawless upkeep – all of which justify higher fees for skilled owners who can deliver that standard consistently.
Owner’s Experience
Finally, experience is the true differentiator. Managing short-term rentals isn’t simply about logistics – it’s about understanding seasonal demand, guest psychology, and revenue pacing. Owners with a strong grasp of local tourism trends can adjust pricing, anticipate maintenance needs, and keep occupancy high through winter.
Those skills come with time and proven results, which is why seasoned professionals in established markets like the Peninsula often earn well above the national average.
Learn more: How to manage a holiday rental without losing much time?
How to Maximize Earnings as a Holiday Rental Owner
Increasing income as a holiday rental owner isn’t just about setting higher rates. Based on our working experience towards properties across the Mornington Peninsula, here are several proven ways to strengthen performance and maintain consistent income throughout the year.
Invest in High-Quality Amenities
Guests are willing to pay more for homes that offer genuine comfort and memorable touches. The right upgrades can significantly boost a property’s appeal and occupancy rate.
- Focus on comfort and functionality – high-quality linen, well-equipped kitchens, and strong Wi-Fi are must-haves.
- Add experience-driven features such as solar-heated pools, outdoor entertaining areas, or spa-style bathrooms.
- Keep eco-conscious improvements in mind: energy-efficient appliances or refillable amenities resonate with modern travellers.
Even small upgrades, when done thoughtfully, can justify a higher nightly rate and strengthen a property’s review performance.
Use a Dynamic Pricing Strategy
A static pricing model can quickly limit income potential. Successful owners apply dynamic pricing, adjusting rates according to demand, season, and local events.
- Raise prices during peak periods like December to February when beachside stays are in high demand.
- Offer off-season incentives – such as discounted midweek rates or extended-stay offers – to maintain steady bookings.
- Use data-driven tools to monitor competitor rates and local occupancy patterns.
This adaptable approach not only maximises revenue but also builds long-term booking stability for homeowners.
Enhance Marketing Strategy
Marketing plays a decisive role in how well a property performs financially. A strong online presence helps listings stand out in crowded marketplaces and convert browsers into bookings.
- Use high-quality, locally shot photography to highlight each property’s best features.
- Write listings with clear, benefit-focused copy that connects features to guest experiences.
- Encourage authentic guest reviews and highlight them across booking platforms.
- Regularly share local insights – from winery recommendations to seasonal events — to position yourself as a trusted local expert.
By combining compelling storytelling with local credibility, owners can attract higher-quality guests and build repeat business year after year.
Go Coastal – Your Trusted Holiday Rental owner in Mornington Peninsula
Behind every successful holiday property is a owner who understands the balance between hospitality and business performance. On the Mornington Peninsula, that balance is what sets Go Coastal Holidays apart. With more than 30 years in tourism and short-stay management, the team combines deep local knowledge with practical systems that make property ownership genuinely stress-free.
Go Coastal offers:
- Full-service management – from guest bookings and check-ins to cleaning, maintenance, and marketing.
- Local expertise – decades of Peninsula experience means accurate seasonal pricing, trusted contractor networks, and insider travel insights.
- Sustainable operations – we’re proudly Carbon Positive Business.
- Transparent communication – each homeowner has access to a private Owner Portal for real-time booking data, income tracking, and self-managed calendar entries.
This personalised approach ensures both homeowners and guests experience what Go Coastal stands for – ease, reliability, and care. Whether you’re looking to grow your property’s income or simply want peace of mind knowing it’s being looked after professionally, Go Coastal offers the complete solution.
Chat to David today to discover how Go Coastal can manage your property with expertise, transparency, and a true local touch.
