Updated October 2026 · Fraser Bond
Investment · Serviced apartments
Serviced apartments: worth it?
Operators& agents
Planning90-night rule
Costscleaning & fees
Comparelong let
In short: Serviced apartments are furnished homes let for short or medium stays with services such as cleaning, linen and guest support. In London, using a whole home for short-term lets beyond 90 nights a year needs planning permission, and your lease, mortgage and insurance must allow it. Operators may lease your flat and run it themselves, or manage it for a share of income. Income can be higher but less predictable than a long let. Fraser Bond specialises in long-let management and can compare the numbers for you.
| Model | How it works |
|---|---|
| Operator lease | Operator rents the flat and runs it; you get fixed rent |
| Management agreement | Manager runs bookings; you get variable income less fees |
| Long let | A tenant on a periodic tenancy; steady rent |
Ways to let a furnished apartment
Frequently asked questions
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Do I need planning permission for serviced apartments in London?
For whole-home short lets beyond 90 nights a year, usually yes.
Is serviced apartment income higher?
It can be, but costs and voids are higher too.
Does Fraser Bond manage serviced apartments?
We specialise in long lets and can compare options.
