Second home council tax just doubled—here’s how to turn that cost into income

As of 2025, many second home owners across the UK are being hit with a 100% council tax premium—doubling the annual cost of holding onto a holiday home. It’s the latest in a series of tax changes targeting second home ownership, and for many, it feels like the tide is turning.

But that doesn’t mean you have to lose out. At Guested, we help second home owners in Falmouth and across Cornwall turn rising costs into real, reliable income—through fully-managed, short-term holiday lets.

Here’s how we help cover those new costs… and more.

What’s changing and why it matters

Local councils now have the power to charge double council tax on second homes that are not used as permanent residences. The idea is to increase housing availability for locals, but the result for owners is simple: higher bills.

In Cornwall alone, thousands of properties are affected. And it’s not just council tax.

There’s:

• higher stamp duty for second homes

• tighter rules around business rates relief

• increasing pressure on holiday home owners to “give back” or leave

If you’re not actively using or letting your property, the costs are stacking up fast.

Letting out your home can cover your expenses (and more)

Turning your second home into a professionally-managed holiday let can help offset those new taxes—and often, generate far more than they cost.

At Guested, we work with homeowners across Falmouth to:

• attract high-quality guests all year round

• keep your calendar full with smart, dynamic pricing

• take care of everything from changeovers to guest messages

• deliver a five-star experience that keeps reviews glowing and income growing

Whether you’re living elsewhere full time or only use the property a few weeks a year, holiday letting is one of the most effective ways to turn a costly second home into a profitable asset.

You don’t have to manage it yourself

If you’ve held off on letting your second home because it sounds like too much work, that’s exactly why we’re here.

With Guested, everything’s handled for you:

• your listing is crafted and optimised across all major platforms

• guest screening, communication, and support is included

• hotel-quality cleaning, linen hire, and welcome packs

• we monitor pricing daily and adjust to market demand

• and you’ll always have a local, responsive point of contact

We’re not a faceless agency. We’re based right here in Cornwall. We treat your home like it’s our own.

Now’s the time to take action

The tax changes are here, but they don’t have to cost you. If you own a second home in Falmouth or the surrounding area, there’s a smarter way forward—and we’d love to help you take it.

Let Guested turn your holiday home into a holiday income.

Visit guesteduk.com to find out more or book a free chat.