ALPHA ESTATES GREECE (AEG) – Frequently Asked Questions
Discover how Alpha Estates Greece (AEG) can turn your property into a reliable source of income through short- and mid-term rentals, utilising top online platforms such as Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, VRBO, and more.
What Are Electronic Platforms for Short-Term Property Rentals?
These platforms are websites that allow you to showcase and monetize your property by offering it for short- or mid-term rentals. Travelers worldwide can quickly and easily find a place to stay through these sites. Major examples include Airbnb, Booking.com, and Expedia, which together account for over 90% of the global market.
Why List My Property on These Platforms?
Broad Exposure: Over 900,000 properties across 190 countries are already listed.
Simplicity: It’s an easy, smart way to generate additional income from your property.
Revenue Boost: With more than 50% of bookings occurring in Europe, it’s a prime opportunity for property owners.
What Types of Properties Can I Rent Out?
Primary Options: Apartments, houses, or even entire buildings.
Requirements: All properties must be fully furnished and equipped. AEG exclusively manages entire units, ensuring quality and consistency.
How Do I Get Started?
Submit Your Information: Send us some sample photos and basic details of your property.
Evaluation: Our team will assess your property’s potential revenue through short- and mid-term rentals.
Collaboration: Once onboard, all you need to do is sit back and watch your property generate income.
What Services Does AEG Provide?
Listing Creation & Management: We handle the setup and maintenance of your property’s profile on platforms like Airbnb, Booking.com, Expedia, VRBO, etc.
Guest Communication: We take care of all inquiries, negotiations, and booking confirmations.
Guest Reception & Support: Our team welcomes guests and provides ongoing assistance throughout their stay.
Service Coordination:
Cleaning: We coordinate cleaning services before and after each guest’s stay (with fees typically passed to the guest).
Professional Photography: We organize high-quality photography sessions to showcase your property.
Technical Support: We offer ongoing technical support whenever needed.
How Soon Can I Start Earning?
Once your property is ready to rent, we complete all processes and activate your listing within approximately 48 hours. You could start earning from the very first month!
What If I Already Have Listings on Other Platforms?
No problem! If you already list your property on platforms like Airbnb or Booking.com, we can take over management and enhance your service offerings. We also offer special rates for owners with multiple properties.
Property Requirements
To qualify for AEG’s management services, properties must meet the following criteria:
Essential Features:
Fully furnished spaces
Heating and hot water
Adequate storage solutions (e.g., closets)
A functional kitchen (or kitchenette) with basic appliances such as a refrigerator, cookware, glassware, dishes, and cutlery
High-speed internet
Air conditioning, television, and a washing machine
Basic safety items (first-aid kit and fire extinguisher)
Preferred Features:
Accessibility for people with disabilities
Proximity to public transportation
Satellite television
How Are Payments Handled?
Payment Process: Funds are transferred to your bank account (domestic or international) with monthly financial settlements so you have a clear view of your earnings.
Payment Flow: Guests pay you directly, and at the end of each month, you transfer our agreed-upon fee from your earnings.
Tips for Maximizing Bookings
Location: Properties near historical sites, tourist attractions, and transit hubs are more likely to be booked.
Photography: Professional photos can significantly increase your booking chances.
Competitive Pricing: A balanced nightly rate that reflects the quality and amenities of your property is key to maximizing occupancy and revenue.
Areas We Serve
Primary Markets: Properties in central and suburban Athens, Thessaloniki, Mykonos, Lefkada, Skopelos, and Paros.
Nationwide Service: Our online management system can support properties throughout Greece.
Communication with Guests
When AEG manages your property, you don’t need to handle guest communications. Our dedicated team ensures that all guest needs and requests are met professionally and promptly.
How Do You Ensure Bookings?
24/7 Operations: Our team works around the clock, managing listings, syncing calendars, and responding to inquiries in real time.
Strategic Partnerships: We collaborate with various companies (clinics, embassies, international firms, etc.) to secure additional bookings.
Note: While we strive for maximum occupancy, we cannot guarantee a specific number of bookings.
Managing Dates and Personal Use
Availability Management: AEG handles all inquiries and booking requests through the online platforms. Please notify us of any personal reservations to avoid double-booking.
Personal Reservations: You can reserve days for your own use or to host friends and family through prior communication with our team.
Onboarding Process for New Listings
After agreeing on a partnership, we require 10–15 days to complete the following:
Setting up your property’s listing
Conducting a professional photo session
Preparing the space (including bedding and linens) for the first guests
Pricing & Commission Policy
Revenue Management: Our experienced revenue managers utilize advanced pricing tools to maximize occupancy and revenue. You can set a minimum price in consultation with our experts.
Commission Rates:
General management fees typically range between 20–30% based on property performance.
For online management services:
17% + VAT, or
20% (VAT-exempt) if accounting services are also provided.
Note: These terms do not apply to seasonal or occasional partnerships, where different rates may be used.
Handling Property Damages
After each guest’s departure, we perform a thorough inspection of your property and send you photos if any damages are detected. In case of damage claims, we act as mediators to secure full compensation according to the policies of the respective booking platform. Note that normal wear and tear (such as minor damage to dishes or glassware) is not subject to claims.
Guest Reception & Safety Measures
Warm Welcome: We ensure that guests are greeted warmly; however, due to COVID-19 protocols, we now employ lock-boxes for contactless self check-in.
24/7 Support: Our team is available around the clock to address any guest needs during their stay.
Key Management
To avoid issues with lost or misplaced keys, we use four sets:
Two Sets: Kept at the property for guest use.
One Set: Held at our office for the person handling the guest check-in.
One Set: Provided to the cleaning team.
Tip: Consider installing a keyless entry system for enhanced security and convenience. Rest assured, if you decide to end our partnership, all key sets will be returned.
Additional Services & Policies
Plant & Pet Care: AEG is not responsible for plant care or pet management. For plants, we recommend installing an automatic watering system. If pets are present, please mention this in your property description.
Cleaning Services: We partner with trusted professional cleaners to ensure your property meets high standards of hygiene and safety (including COVID-19 precautions), typically scheduled between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
House Rules: You may set specific rules (e.g., no shoes on carpets). Inform us of any special requirements so we can communicate them to guests.
Insurance: We advise obtaining basic liability insurance for your property. More details are available from our team.
Ending the Partnership
If you wish to discontinue our services:
Notice Requirement: You must send a written notice via email at least two months in advance.
Ongoing Bookings: Confirmed future bookings cannot be canceled. We will do our best to transfer these bookings to other properties in our network, but if that isn’t possible, an appropriate compensation will be arranged.
With Alpha Estates Greece (AEG), you’re partnering with a team of dedicated professionals committed to maximizing your property’s bookings and ensuring top-notch guest service. Contact us today to discover how we can optimize your property’s performance!
