If you’re in the shortlet game in 2025, you already know—this isn’t just a side hustle anymore. It’s a serious business. But what separates the “booked out” from the “barely breaking even”?.From Lagos to Abuja, and whether your listing is on Homely, Airbnb, Booking.com, or even Nigeria Property Centre, success isn’t luck—it’s strategy.
Let’s break down what actually makes a shortlet business profitable this year—and how you can stay ahead of the curve.
1. Location setting matters
Yes, location matters. But in 2025, it’s more about proximity and experience. Guests are booking apartments not just because they’re in Lekki or Ikoyi, but because they’re steps away from the best restaurants, cafes, beaches, or business hubs.
Travelers are looking to stay close to everything—without giving up that sense of privacy they’d miss in a hotel. Whether it’s a couple on a romantic getaway or a group of friends on a staycation, convenient, vibrant, and lifestyle-focused areas are winning.
2. Tech-driven management
Let’s be honest—managing shortlet properties isn’t exactly for the faint of heart. Between bookings, pricing, housekeeping, and guest messages, it can get messy.
That’s where tech comes in clutch. Most platforms are now using automation, data analytics, and real-time pricing tools to boost occupancy rates, optimize revenue, and cut down on human error. If your shortlet isn’t backed by tech, you’re probably leaving money on the table. So this is a heads up to invest in these right now, especially with how saturated the market is right now.
3. Profitable direct bookings
While the big platforms still drive visibility, 2025 is seeing a rise in direct bookings. Why? Guests want better deals and hosts want fewer commission cuts. Having a slick booking page or property website means more control, better margins, and less platform dependency. It’s not just smart—it’s sustainable.
4. Longer stays are the new weekend rush
Quick getaways are cool, but longer stays are where the money’s at. Think business travelers or even leisure or holiday travellers booking two weeks in Victoria Island or locking in 30 nights in a quiet but stylish apartment in Lekki.
You earn more, clean less, and fill your calendar without constant turnover. A win is a win.
5. Good design equals better bookings
This might seem extra, but in 2025, aesthetic is all the rave right now. Guests want apartments that look good, feel good, and photograph well.
From cozy setups for couples to spacious layouts for groups to premium amenities like pool table, properties that stand out visually get more attention and better reviews. Think earthy tones, stylish artwork, smart lighting, minimalist furniture, and of course—great WiFi to make your place insta worthy.
6. Stacking good reviews
Here’s the truth, People don’t just book shortlets, they book trust and reliability. A clean property, smooth check-in, and quick response time can turn a first-time guest into a loyal one.
And let’s not forget the power of platforms. Whether it’s Airbnb, Booking.com, or Homely, positive reviews are the currency that fuels visibility and future bookings.
7. Having the right pricing strategy
Smart, dynamic pricing is kind of your best deal these days. Whether it’s adjusting for seasonal demand, special events, or weekday vs weekend traffic, hosts using data-backed pricing tools are seeing higher returns without overcharging guests. Fair, flexible, and fast—that’s the 2025 formula.
A profitable shortlet business in 2025 isn’t about owning the most properties—it’s about owning the right ones, running them efficiently, and staying in sync with what modern guests actually want. And if you’re not leveraging tech, aesthetics, location, and seamless guest experiences, you’re not just behind—you’re missing out.
And if you need a partner who gets it? Well, Homely is right here. Check out this article to find out more about the benefits of partnering with a a property management company.
