What to Do When You’re Having a Hard Time Finding Partners in the Serviced Accommodation Business

Running a serviced accommodation (SA) business can feel like a solo mission—especially when you’re actively looking for collaboration partners and coming up empty. Whether you’re seeking co-hosts, cleaning companies, relocation agents, or other SA owners to cross-promote with, the process of finding reliable collaborators can be frustrating.

But don’t worry—you’re not alone in this, and there are strategic ways to build meaningful partnerships, even when it feels like the industry has gone quiet.

1. Audit Your Collaboration Offer

Before reaching out, ask yourself: What value am I offering in return?

Many SA owners are approached with vague collaboration requests that don’t clearly explain the benefits. Instead of saying “Let’s partner,” try:

• Offering specific outcomes (e.g., “Let’s share bookings during peak seasons”)
• Highlighting mutual benefits (e.g., “I have overflow during weekends, you have corporate weekday stays—let’s share the load.”)
• Suggesting a trial period to test the waters

2. Show Up Where Other SA Owners Hang Out

If you’re only networking on Facebook groups, you might be missing out. Here are alternative ways to find SA professionals:

• LinkedIn: Use keywords like “serviced accommodation,” “short-term rental,” or “relocation agent” to find potential partners.
• Local landlord/property investor meetups: These groups often include other SA owners or those interested in branching into SA.
• Hospitality or real estate events: These can be rich grounds for building alliances, especially if you come prepared with a clear pitch.

3. Create Collaborations Through Content

Instead of waiting for partners, create opportunities for them to find you. Consider:

• Starting a small newsletter or podcast interviewing local SA players or related service providers
• Sharing case studies on LinkedIn about your SA wins or challenges (you’ll attract people who want to work with someone transparent and experienced)
• Hosting a free Zoom session on a topic like “Navigating low seasons in SA” and inviting industry peers

4. Tap into Related Industries

If you can’t find SA partners directly, think sideways:

• Corporate relocation agents
• Insurance housing providers
• Estate agents with overflow or emergency housing needs
• Cleaning companies who already service other SAs

These industries often have insight into the SA market and can connect you with potential collaborators—or become collaborators themselves.

5. Stay Visible & Stay Patient

Sometimes it takes a few months of showing up consistently before people begin to trust you and reach out. Keep posting, keep networking, and don’t ghost your audience when engagement seems low.

Also, remember: Quality over quantity. A single reliable partnership can outperform ten vague agreements.

Final Thoughts:
If you’re struggling to find partners, shift the focus from “Who will help me?” to “How can I offer value and build relationships that last?” With consistency and a strategic approach, you’ll begin attracting the right collaborators who can help scale your serviced accommodation business.