SecondHomesRecent publicity has raised concerns about the over-supply of holiday property and the downturn in the global property market, according to Suzanne Quinn, managing director of www.holidayhomesdirect.ie, an Irish travel company that provides a direct service between holiday makers and foreign homeowners.

Quinn says that she is "overwhelmed by the number of people seeking advice about properties which they bought with the intention of selling quickly. The market has changed and these people are now forced to sell at a loss or retain their properties, which in many cases they cannot afford to maintain.

"Most of these individuals are now looking to get some form of a return on their investment through letting their properties. In many cases, people are happy to cover some of their running costs, such as property taxes, contribution towards the mortgage, management fees, etc."

The company has set up an owners' advice section on the website with suggestions about how best to present and market property for short term or holiday lets.

Letting tips for holiday home owners

1 Decorate with clean, neutral interiors

2 Use good quality images, as they sell the property for you

3 Promote individual selling points, eg turf fires, great views, beachside location, etc

4 State in clear and concise language local attractions and amenities

5 Ensure your rates are competitive by comparing them to similar properties

6 Start with friends and acquaintances, use word of mouth

7 Respond to enquiries quickly

8 Add testimonials as this makes potential clients more confident booking your property