7 Best Airbnb Management Companies in Edinburgh
- UpperKey
- Apr 30
- 5 min read
Updated: May 1
Edinburgh, a city rich in culture and tourism, is a prime location for Airbnbs in Edinburgh. Managing an Airbnb in Edinburgh Scotland requires effort, especially with the city's strict licensing laws. That's why many property owners turn to Airbnb management companies to handle everything from bookings to compliance.
Here's a closer look at the best Airbnb management Edinburgh companies and what makes each one stand out in property management for Airbnb.
Table of Contents
Best Airbnb Management Companies in Edinburgh
Company | License Support | Best For | Standout Feature |
UpperKey | Full support provided | Hands-off landlords | Shared revenue model, no hidden fees |
GuestReady | Requires license upfront | Private-entry homes with license ready | Focus on guest experience and optimization |
Pass the Keys | Interim license assistance | Landlords needing license support | Strong local council relationships |
Houst | License required | Fully compliant properties | Premium technology and services |
Evergreen Property | Full support provided | Local landlords seeking personalized service | Recognized local expertise |
Hello Guest | Full support provided | Landlords seeking comprehensive services | Dedicated account management |
Nestify | Full support provided | Landlords aiming to maximize income | Tailored letting strategies |
1. UpperKey
UpperKey offers a unique model in Edinburgh: landlords receive consistent rental income while UpperKey takes care of everything—guest communication, maintenance, Airbnb cleaning Edinburgh, legal compliance, and more. They operate with a shared revenue model and a competitive 20% commission. With 15+ years of global expertise and zero hidden fees, UpperKey is ideal for hands-off landlords seeking transparency and premium Airbnb property management.
Why choose UpperKey:
20% shared revenue model
No hidden fees
Expert handling of licenses and compliance
Operates in Old Town, Royal Mile, New Town, Leith, West End, and more
2. GuestReady
GuestReady manages 27 properties in Edinburgh but used to handle many more. Due to tighter regulations, they scaled down. They require hosts to have a short-term let license before starting. Properties with private entrances are more likely to get approved for Airbnb host management services.
Key Points:
Requires license before onboarding
Focus on listing creation and guest experience
Better suited for owners with private entrances
3. Pass the Keys
Pass the Keys has maintained a strong presence in Edinburgh with around 27 active listings. They have a close working relationship with the local council and can assist landlords in obtaining interim licenses, which take around 6–8 weeks. Having a private entrance can help fast-track the licensing process for short term rental management.
Highlights:
License guidance and council liaison
Suitable for second homes with private access
Offers property insurance and hands-off operations
4. Houst
Houst takes a cautious approach in Edinburgh. They only work with landlords who already have a license or full planning permission in place. Their Edinburgh operations are limited due to the regulatory environment, but they offer a high-quality experience for compliant landlords looking for elite property management.
What to Know:
Won't onboard without a license
Not highly active in the Edinburgh market
Offers guest communication, cleaning services, and dynamic pricing tools
5. Evergreen Property
Evergreen Property is an established property management company based in Edinburgh, offering tailored solutions for both short and long-term lets. They have been recognized as one of Edinburgh's best short let managers and have a strong presence in the local market.
Services:
Short and long-term property management
Expert advice on licensing and compliance
Personalized service with a dedicated team
6. Hello Guest
Hello Guest provides Airbnb management services in Edinburgh, offering a range of services to maximize rental income. They focus on providing a hands-off experience for landlords, handling everything from guest communication to cleaning and maintenance.
Key Features:
Comprehensive property management services
Listing on major booking platforms
Dedicated account managers
7. Nestify
Nestify offers Airbnb management services in Edinburgh, aiming to increase rental income by up to 30%. They provide full property management services, including booking management, housekeeping, and maintenance.
Highlights:
Tailored letting strategies combining short, mid, and long-term lets
Daily price adjustments and 24/7 guest communication
Professional photography and listing creation
What Are the Airbnb Licensing Rules in Edinburgh?
Since 2022, all short-term rental properties in Edinburgh must have a license. The process includes safety checks, planning permission (for secondary lets), and approval by the local council. Properties with private entrances tend to get licensed more easily, and second homes may qualify if the owner declares they live there part-time. Understanding these Airbnb Edinburgh rules is crucial for property owners.
Why Hire an Airbnb Management Company in Edinburgh?
Edinburgh's short-let regulations are among the strictest in the UK. To legally host, you often need planning permission or a short-term let license. That's where professional Airbnb property managers help:
Compliance: Navigate complex local licensing laws
Time-saving: Outsource guest messaging, bookings, and maintenance
Increased revenue: Benefit from price optimization and marketing strategies on multiple booking platforms
Final Thoughts: Who Should You Choose?
Choosing the right Airbnb management company in Edinburgh depends on your specific needs, property type, and licensing status. Whether you're looking for a hands-off experience, expert help navigating short-let regulations, or increased rental income, there's a range of companies ready to support you.
Evaluate what services matter most—licensing support, marketing expertise, guest communication, or revenue guarantees—and compare providers accordingly. With the right partner, managing your Airbnb in Edinburgh can be both profitable and stress-free.
FAQs
Q1: Do I need a license to Airbnb my flat in Edinburgh?
Yes. Since 2022, Edinburgh requires short-term rental licenses for most properties.
Q2: What are the best areas in Edinburgh for short-term lets?
Old Town, New Town, Leith, and the West End are all popular due to high Edinburgh tourism. Air b and b Edinburgh Old Town properties are particularly sought after. Morningside and Stockbridge are also becoming increasingly popular for Airbnbs Edinburgh.
Q3: How long does it take to get an Airbnb license in Edinburgh?
It typically takes 6–8 weeks, especially if you have a private entrance and all documents ready.
Q4: What services do Airbnb management companies typically offer?
Most companies offer comprehensive services including listing creation, professional photography, guest vetting, 24/7 guest support, cleaning services, linen and toiletries provision, and property maintenance.
Q5: How can Airbnb management improve my property's performance?
Airbnb managers use strategies like dynamic pricing, multi-platform listings, and targeted marketing to increase occupancy rates and rental income. They also manage guest reviews and provide detailed property performance reports through a host portal.
Q6: Are there any special considerations for Airbnb hosts during Edinburgh's peak seasons?
Yes, during events like the Edinburgh Festival and Hogmanay, demand for Airbnbs skyrockets. Airbnb management companies can help optimize pricing and prepare your property for these high-demand periods, potentially increasing your rental income significantly.
