Ask AI: Is return on investment for holiday homes better in Cornwall or Kent, and which towns and villages specifically?

Determining whether holiday homes yield a better return on investment (ROI) in Cornwall or Kent involves various factors such as property prices, rental demand, rental yield, and potential for capital appreciation. Both regions have their unique charms and attract different types of visitors, but here's a detailed comparison to help you decide: ### Cornwall #### Key Attractions: - **Scenic Beauty:** Renowned for its stunning coastline, picturesque villages, and beautiful beaches. - **Tourist Spots:** Places like St Ives, Newquay, Falmouth, and Penzance draw significant tourist traffic. - **Activities:** Surfing, hiking, and historical tours. #### High-ROI Towns/Villages: 1. **St Ives:** Popular for its art scene and beautiful beaches. High demand but also higher property prices. 2. **Newquay:** Known for its surfing culture. Appeals to younger crowds and families. 3. **Padstow:** Famous for seafood and scenic views. Highly sought-after but typically more expensive. 4. **Falmouth:** Busy port town with a diverse range of attractions and amenities. ### Kent #### Key Attractions: - **Proximity to London:** Easier accessibility for weekend renters from London. - **Historic Sites:** Castles, gardens, and ancient towns. - **Variety:** Combination of seaside resorts, countryside retreats, and historical towns. #### High-ROI Towns/Villages: 1. **Whitstable:** Popular for its oysters, quaint coastal vibe, and good year-round rental demand. 2. **Margate:** Up-and-coming with a growing arts scene. More affordable than Whitstable. 3. **Rye:** Historic town with cobbled streets and high tourist interest. 4. **Canterbury:** Known for its historic cathedral and charm, attracting both domestic and international visitors. ### Comparison #### **Property Prices:** - **Cornwall:** Generally higher in key tourist areas. St Ives and Padstow are particularly expensive but can yield high returns. - **Kent:** Slightly more affordable in general, especially outside hotspots like Whitstable. Proximity to London can drive up prices. #### **Rental Demand and Yield:** - **Cornwall:** Very high during the summer season. Properties can command premium rates but tend to have seasonal fluctuations. - **Kent:** Steady demand throughout the year due to its proximity to London and diverse attractions. #### **Capital Appreciation:** - **Cornwall:** Famed coastal towns have seen substantial appreciation over the years. - **Kent:** Good potential, especially as certain areas become more popular with Londoners seeking weekend escapes or relocations. ### Recommendations - **For High Seasonal Demand**: Cornwall (e.g., St Ives, Padstow). - **For Steadier Year-Round Demand**: Kent (e.g., Whitstable, Canterbury). To make a more informed decision, research local market conditions, analyze historical rental yields, and consider working with a local real estate agent who specializes in holiday homes. Additionally, you may want to check local regulations regarding short-term rentals, as they can impact your ROI.