Rents and Fees

Trying To find the best possible price to charge for your Room for Rent is a question I get asked often. I have put together some information and guide lines to help you out.

Pricing your rooms depends on many different factors such as location, size of room available, and type of Homestay style offered.

Another consideration is the extras such as ESL, driving to and from school, work, etc.

If you are receiving your guest from a school or agency, ask them if they have pricing guidelines already in place.

Base the room rate on:

• Current local rent market (check the other Homestay rates in your area)
• The type of Homestay you are offering
• School policies
• Room & Home amenities
• Meals included/not included
• ESL Language Tutoring
• Location to schools, city and amenities, tourist attractions

Here are a few suggestions to keep in mind:

Always be business-like when handling the rent so there is no misunderstanding from both guest and host.

Most Homestay fees are paid on the day your guest/student arrives for the month and is collected on the same day the following month.

- Sometimes the school and/or organizations will pay you directly.

- Charging a room-deposit gives the guest/student incentive to leave the room in good shape. Use common sense when it comes to returning deposits. (Note: Some schools and organizations do not allow deposits to be taken from students.)

- Keep financial dealings straightforward and consistent. A misunderstanding regarding finances can create havoc with your Guest-Host relationship that can cost you! Check your local area and find out what other Homestays are charging. Phone them – it’s great for networking.

For more great advice on setting up your home and running a successful Homestay get a copy of Homestay 101 for Hosts

go to: or Barnes&Noble.com