did you come to any decision Sue? Sounds a tricky one. However, surely they would be happy to pay expenses? I don't know what to suggest. To give an indication what do 2 bed apartments in your area make on average per week in the summer?

I give my family 20% off the normal price. All amenities are included so they can use aircon 24/7 if they like. We still have bills and a mortgage to pay so they are happy to rent with a decent amount off.

If you don't want to charge the family Sue, then tell them its £100 for costs. Tell them also for that they have to clean it. Thats what I do with a good friend of mine, but I also return the favour when his apartment is full and he needs a place to stay. That way, you cover the electric and make a little ( all helps).

Although in August I wouldn't be giving away cheap holidays unless the people were really close family who have helped me over the years. You all know the situation, we buy these apartments and family and friends are all of a sudden the best they have ever been with you!!! You have got to be firm on this or you will feel terrible afterwards for being weak!!!!

Come on Sue, be strong willed, you can do it!!! Turn this into this !!

Boy are you right! I have had calls from family members who usually do not even pick up the phone to wish you merry xmas!! I think I am getter harder as the bills come in! We had hoped not to have to rent commercially but it looks like we may have to have a re-think on that

I have an apartment in Malta. We bought it for our own use but family and work friends have asked if they could stay there. So rather then upset people by constantly saying sorry but it's booked! We have decided to let them stay at (half price) and make a charge of £100 pw. We inform them that should any of their close friends or family want to use it then they will be charged the full price £200.pw

Hi Sue,

From my experience, I would advise you to carry on renting commercially (if this is what you prefer to do) and the family will have to fit in around your available dates.

I also know that it doesnt always pay off to help people out all the time, they may let you down at the last minute and then your apartment may be empty at peak times. How annoying would that be?

Hi Sue, It's amazing how many new friends you 'aquire' when they know you have a holiday property abroad isn't it?
I have told my family I will charge them for the cleaner & utility costs only, whereas 'friends' will get a discount for a late rental only if the property is not let. I don't see why I should let them book the property for a nominal amount months in advance when I could be getting the full rental from a potential client.
At the end of the day, we have a mortgage to pay on the property as well as a cleaner as well as bills.
They seem to forget that.