Almost every owner's first question is how much it costs to delegate. The short answer is that it depends on the model, the city and what the service includes. The useful answer is knowing what to compare so the price doesn't mislead you.
The three most common pricing models
| Model | How it works | When it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Commission on income | A percentage of what your property earns | If you want the company to earn when you earn |
| Fixed monthly fee | A fee independent of occupancy | If you want a predictable cost and your property has steady demand |
| Hybrid model | Reduced fee plus a lower percentage | If you want to balance risk and predictability |
Commission on income is the most common formula because it aligns both parties' interests: the better your property performs, the better for both.
What commission range is normal
As a rough guide, in the Spanish full-service management market commissions usually range between 15% and 25% of income, plus VAT. It's a wide range because the service varies too: complete management with guest support, dynamic pricing and cleaning coordination isn't comparable to a simple listing service.
These figures are for guidance only and vary by city, type of property and services contracted. Always ask for the proposal in writing.
An illustrative example
Imagine a property that earns €24,000 a year. With a 20% commission, the company would receive €4,800, plus 21% VAT (€1,008). This is an example to understand the calculation, not a rate. What matters is comparing how much the property earns under one management company and another, not just how much each company keeps.
What is usually not included in the commission
Two proposals with the same commission can cost very different amounts if the extras aren't the same. Clarify in writing who pays for:
- Cleaning and laundry: sometimes the guest pays through a cleaning fee; other times the company passes it on to the owner.
- Amenities: toilet paper, soap, coffee, welcome products.
- Maintenance and repairs: small repairs and their coordination.
- Photography and initial setup: listing setup, photo shoot, equipment.
- Utilities and fees: electricity, water, internet, community fees and taxes are usually always paid by the owner.
- Portal commissions: Airbnb, Booking and others charge their own fees, and it's worth knowing whether they are already deducted from the income you are shown.
Cheap can turn out expensive
A commission three points lower isn't worth it if the property earns less. Three factors weigh more than the percentage:
- Occupancy: every empty night is money you won't get back.
- Average rate: a good pricing strategy can more than make up for the difference in commission.
- Ratings: a good score attracts more bookings and lets you charge more.
So before deciding, look at the results too: the average occupancy of the properties we manage at Bhost is 89%, and our average ratings are 8.9 on Booking and 4.8 on Airbnb.
Frequently asked questions
Does the commission include VAT?
Usually not: it's billed separately. Ask for the proposal to show the percentage and the VAT separately so you can compare accurately.
Who pays for cleaning?
It depends on the company. In many cases it's charged to the guest as a cleaning fee and in others it's deducted from your statement. Clarify this before signing.
Is a fixed fee or a percentage better?
A fixed fee is predictable, but the company earns the same even if your property barely gets booked. A percentage aligns interests: if your property performs better, you both earn more.
Are there setup costs?
Some companies charge for onboarding, the photo shoot or initial equipment. Ask for these to be listed separately in the proposal.
Questions to ask about the price
- Is the commission calculated on gross or net income?
- What else is billed on top, and at what rate?
- Are there setup costs, minimum terms or exit penalties?
- How often do I receive my statement, and what report comes with it?
If you want to keep comparing, read our guide on how to choose a management company or request your free profitability assessmentdirectly. We send it within 24 business hours, with a forecast based on your property and your city.
