Think Acquisition Strengthens Its Position as the UK’s Go-To Broker for Holiday Let and Short-Term Rental Transactions
- Think Acquisition Team
- Oct 9
- 3 min read
Our team has firmly established itself as one of the few specialists in M&A within the UK’s holiday let and short-term rental sector. The firm has recently advised on three transactions, with further deals in the pipeline, that highlight its expertise and reflect the changing dynamics of the market.
The combined portfolio from these transactions encompasses circa 400 managed units, covering Wales and a range of markets across the wider UK.
Recent Transactions
Just Stay Wales → StayRight (Share Purchase)
Undisclosed Seller → Undisclosed Buyer (Asset Purchase)
Soon to be Announced (Share Sale)
All three were sell-side mandates, with Think Acquisition guiding the selling owners from the initial valuation stage through to completion.
Following the second transaction, the acquiring party appointed Think Acquisition on an exclusive buy-side basis to support ongoing growth through further acquisitions across key UK cities.
Growing Through Consolidation
The short-term rental industry has experienced rapid growth over the last decade but remains fragmented. Recent tightening of regulations and rising operational costs for landlords have made consolidation a key strategy for achieving scale and resilience.
In Wales, new licensing requirements and council-level controls, coupled with the potential introduction of planning class C5 for short-term lets, are reshaping the sector.
These regulatory pressures, combined with rising cleaning, utility and platform costs, are making it increasingly difficult for smaller operators to compete effectively. In addition, a struggling private rental sector has seen more properties enter the market without corresponding demand, further spreading the sector’s total revenue.
Strategic Market Insight
“Over the past 18 months, we’ve noticed a distinct shift,” commented Libby Jervis, Director at Think Acquisition. “This change has motivated many operators to reassess their strategies, leading to a notable uptick in M&A activity.”
As market conditions evolve, the importance of strategic insight becomes critical. Think Acquisition’s deep understanding of the holiday let management landscape enables tailored advice that helps clients navigate market complexities effectively.
The firm’s approach combines real and live market knowledge with an understanding of regulatory environments, helping clients make informed and confident decisions. This expertise is particularly valuable in a sector where regulations vary significantly between regions, impacting both operations and profitability.
Short-term let businesses are complex, and there is no single valuation method that fits all. While most companies fulfil similar needs for property owners, their service models, revenue per property, and profitability can vary dramatically.
Looking Ahead in Short-Term Rentals
The future of the short-term rental market will be shaped by ongoing regulatory changes, technological innovation and evolving consumer preferences. To thrive, businesses must remain flexible and ready to adapt.
For operators, this may mean proactively exploring growth opportunities through acquisitions, strategic partnerships or operational restructuring. Adaptability will be essential for achieving long-term success in this maturing sector.
Think Acquisition continues to support clients through this transition, providing expert guidance and strategic insight that are essential for navigating an increasingly complex market.
Final Thoughts
Think Acquisition’s recent transactions reaffirm its reputation as one of the UK’s leading specialist brokers in the short-term rental and holiday let sector. As market conditions continue to evolve, the firm’s expertise in navigating regulatory challenges and structuring deals will remain invaluable for clients seeking to grow or exit in this dynamic industry.
As the short-term rental sector matures, Think Acquisition will continue to play a leading role in helping clients seize opportunities and approach change with confidence.
If you're considering selling your serviced accommodation management company, please feel free to get in touch for a no-obligation discussion. We'd be happy to help.
T: 02920 025 852
