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Common Questions During Short Let Valuations

Valuations

Valuations determine a building’s monetary value and are done for both sales and lettings properties.

Valuations allow us to determine what the property is worth, as a whole or on a nightly basis (depending on whether it is sales or lettings), but they also give both parties a chance to ask any questions about the property, the process or to raise any concerns they may have.

Below we list some of the most common questions that are asked during valuations across our short-let properties.

What would you need me to leave?

Your home must be fully furnished and have everything that is needed for a short-term stay. We have a list that we send to you of all of the essential items. This includes kitchenware e.g. pots, pans and utensils, plates, glassware, hoover, and cleaning items such as a dustpan and brush, mop and bucket etc. 

Do I leave bedding and towels?

You will need to supply a duvet, mattress protector, pillows and pillow protectors but we provide the bedding, e.g., the duvet cover, sheets and pillowcases and bath and hand towels.

Who does the photographs?

Either our in-house photographer can take the photos or we can pay for them to be done by a professional photographer. We recommend professional photos on the basis that the average user on Airbnb takes 11 minutes and 31 seconds to book a property, so your property needs to stand out from the crowd.

Who sorts issues/fixes things? And how are these paid?

We have handymen who can come and fix any issues from wobbly toilet seats to broken beds. We always ensure that these are dealt with as quickly as possible to reduce any stress or inconvenience for guests.

As well as this, we have a list of vetted plumbers and electricians should we need to use them.

The cost of repairs and/or maintenance will come out of your settlement statement. However, these will all be approved by you first and if it has been a guests fault, we will do all we can to recoup the costs.

How involved in the process do I have to be?

We take care of everything, from setting up your property profile with professional photographs right through to ensuring guests enjoy their stay and everything that happens in between. You don’t need to do anything once you hand the property over to us.

Are there call-out charges?

Nope! One of the advantages about using Hopewell, is that we are a Bristol based company, so we’re always on hand for any issues that arise, whether that is in office ours, in the evening or over the weekend.

How long until my property can go live?

Your property can go live as soon as you are ready and is led by your schedule. We can get your property set up and live in as little as 24 hours on both our website and Airbnb.

When will I get paid and how?

You will receive payments on the 7th of every month and this will be for all bookings from the previous month.

Who will the guests be?

Guests can be anyone! Business travellers, tourists, even Bristol residents during their house sale. 

Can I use the property still or are there restrictions?

There are no restrictions as such, all we ask is that you honour any bookings that are already in place and provide as much notice as possible if you are wanting to use the property.

What let type best suits my property?

This depends on your situation and how long you are wanting to let it for. We may recommend going down the mid-term route if you only wish to let for 2-4 months. If longer, short-term may best suit your requirements. However, we can do a combination of both to hopefully ensure maximum bookings and profit!

So, if you’re thinking of getting your property ready for the short lets market, we hope that we’ve answered some of your questions and concerns. If you’re ready to start earning money through your property, get in touch today for a free valuation!

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Bristol’s Top 10 Museums and Art Galleries

M Shed

Originally a transit shed from the 1950s, the M Shed is now a thriving museum that offers a unique insight into the history of Bristol. The M Shed now houses a large collection of objects and artefacts. In addition to plenty of displays detailing historical facts, this living museum includes many working exhibits, such as steamboats, trains and of course it’s iconic cranes. As well as delving into the industrial, maritime and engineering history of the city, you can discover more about its cultural, musical and artistic roots. M Shed is open daily except for most Mondays and is free to visit. It has a gift shop and cafe, too.

M-Shed, Museum of Bristol, Bristol.

M-Shed, Museum of Bristol, Bristol.

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Located in Bristol’s ‘West End’ city, this well-laid-out museum boasts 19 galleries over three floors. Archaeology, Ancient Egypt and world cultures dominate the ground floor, while the first floor is taken over by dinosaurs, geology and Bristol’s history. Art enthusiasts will flock to the second floor, which is filled with artwork, ceramics, glass and silver collections from all over the world. Ideal for all the family, this museum includes lots of interactive activities and trails that will engage youngsters. The museum is open daily, apart from most Mondays, and is free to enter (although donations are welcome).

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery
Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Bristol Museum & Art Gallery

Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Built by Bristol’s favourite son, Isambard Kingdom Brunel in 1843, the SS Great Britain is regarded as the world’s first great steamship. You can step on board the ship and enjoy an exciting visitor experience, fascinating for both children and adults. As well as plenty of hands-on activities and interactive stories and displays, this living museum lets you explore the bowels of the ship, including the galley, surgeon’s quarters and dining saloon. Brave explorers can even climb up the ship’s mast, or see what the vessel looks like under the water. This top visitor attraction is found in the Harbourside area of Bristol. Admission prices apply, although concessions are available.

Brunel's SS Great Britain
Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Brunel's SS Great Britain

Brunel’s SS Great Britain

Blaise Castle Museum

Situated in Henbury Road, this attractive museum and estate is nestled within 400 acres of parkland. Free to visit, it tells the story of how people lived over the years. As well as objects, equipment and artefacts used in daily life from the past, there are also displays of old toys and period costumes. Be sure to make a beeline for the Picture Room and admire the stunning art collections hung on the walls. Although the inside of the house might be the obvious attraction here, it’s well worth spending some time in the gardens of this estate. There’s an amphitheatre and kitchen garden to explore, while kids will be happy to expend energy at the adventure playground.

Blaise Castle Museum
Blaise Castle Museum

Blaise Castle Museum

Blaise Castle Museum

Spike Island

This creative zone that focuses on all things art and design and is located in an old tea-packing factory in the thriving harbour part of the city. Light and airy, this space allows artists and designers to come together while offering visitors activities and exhibitions for all the family. In particular, visit Spike Island when the artists open their studios up for tours and you can get a rare glimpse into the working environment of creative types. Visit the cafe to sample local, organic produce. The building is also a collaborative working space and home to many other small businesses, working in the creative industries.

Spike Island
Spike Island

Spike Island

Spike Island

Georgian House Museum

If you wondered what life was like in Bristol in the 18th century, a visit to the Georgian House Museum just off Park Street is a great way to immerse yourself in local history. The house, once the dwelling of a slave and sugar plantation owner, is set up to resemble the 18th century, with artefacts and equipment spanning 11 rooms over four floors. It even comes with its own cold water plunge pool. The house is closed Wednesday-Friday. Entry is free for students and those under the age of 25. A combined ticket to visit Red Lodge Museum is available.

Georgian House Museum
Georgian House Museum

Georgian House Museum

Georgian House Museum

Red Lodge Museum

If you’re near the Park Street area of the city, or you’ve just visited the Georgian House Museum, make the Red Lodge Museum your next port of call. This Elizabethan house offers a glimpse back in time spanning 400 years. The Great Oak Room will be a highlight of your visit, where you can admire exquisite oak panelling. Beautiful Georgian architecture can be found in the downstairs rooms. Another feature not to miss on your visit is the outside Knot Garden, containing plants typically found in English gardens during the 17th century.

Red Lodge Museum
Red Lodge Museum

Red Lodge Museum

Red Lodge Museum

Bristol Archives

The records of the City of Bristol and the British Empire & Commonwealth Collection can be found at Bristol Archives, an intriguing resource for any budding historian, as well as anyone with an interest in British history. You can visit this facility for free and you don’t need to make an appointment, although it’s worth checking opening times beforehand. A rest area and cafe are available on-site. The Bristol Archives can be found at the B Bond Warehouse on Smeaton Road.

Arnolfini

Most visitors to Bristol tend to spend time at the Harbourside. While you’re in this area, be sure to check out the Arnolfini. This centre for contemporary arts puts on a wide range of visual arts, dance and music performances, making it a lively hub for those interested in all things creative. The gallery has recently undergone an ambitious renovation project, so expect exciting changes to this venue. They also serve a lovely pint in their downstairs cafe/bar, which serves the myriad of people who sit outside by the water in the summer months. You can also visit the on-site bookshop, which is regarded as one of the best in the UK for specialist art books.

Arnolfini
Arnolfini

Arnolfini

Arnolfini

View

View is one of the largest independent art galleries in the South West of England. Located on Hotwells Road, this is the place to come to view a wide range of interesting exhibitions. The gallery includes a plethora of art for the home or business and features an extensive array of collections from talented artists. If you are seeking artistic inspiration, View certainly will not disappoint. Opening times vary, so check the website for details. You may need to book an appointment.

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A Guide to Bristol’s Street Art

Bristol Street Art

Whilst Banksy may have put Bristol street art on the map, many other respected graffiti artists have also added vibrancy and colour to the outside walls of buildings in our city, earning it the title as the capital of street art in Europe, if not the entire world.

Let’s take a closer look at where you can find some of Bristol’s finest street art and some of the incredible Bristolian talent contributing to this vibrant century scene.

Where to go

Street art is abundant throughout the city’s roads and streets in Bristol, from the main high streets and thoroughfares to side roads and out the way buildings and areas. You won’t need to venture too far from the city centre to glimpse diverse outdoor murals adding pops of colour to otherwise grey and monotonous buildings.

Let’s look at some of the main areas in turn.

Nelson Street

North Street and Bedminster

Some of the world’s best urban artists have left their mark in the Bedminster and Southville areas. North Street, in particular, is awash with colourful wall canvases, many of which have been created during the most widely acclaimed street art festivals in the world, Upfest. The quality and sheer scale of the street art here will blow you away (and because of the annual Upfest festival, changes every year).

Stokes Croft

Popular with students, the Stokes Croft area of Bristol is bursting with colour, with some of the most famous outdoor murals to be found in this location. Think Cosmo Sarson’s epic Jesus BreakDance, and, of course, Banksy’s Mild Mild West. Also don’t miss taking a peep at works by Aspire, Stinkfish, Cheba and Phlegm all lining the colourful and vibrant Stoke Croft area.

Easton

Although Easton is famed for housing some of Banksy’s most ambitious works of urban art (he allegedly lived here), don’t dismiss the many other curations from lesser-known artists. In fact, veer off the beaten track to the back streets of Stanley Park and you will discover a whole host of graffiti talent.

Upfest

Bristol’s Street Artists

The world’s most famous graffiti artists have made their way to Bristol, putting their creative stamp on the city’s walls. Arguably, the most famous of all artists is the legendary Banksy, who began his graffiti career in the city, and has been unleashing his creative talents on walls since 1993.

While Banksy is the king of Bristol’s urban artwork scene, it would be unfair not to mention other talented street artists that have brought a splash of colour to the city’s walls. If you want to immerse yourself in Bristol’s graffiti art, seek out the murals of these other creatives.

With that being said, let’s start with Bristol and perhaps the world’s most famous street artist.

Banksy

No visit to Bristol would be complete without hunting down some of Banksy’s most famous wall illustrations. Head to Frogmore Street, to glimpse the Well Hung Lover, while Hanover Place is the location to spot the renowned Girl with the Pierced Eardrum. Off Bath Buildings Road you can spy one of Banky’s earliest innovations, Take the Money and Run. Other street artists, such as Inky and Mobz, pitched in to help with this one.

Angus

Humour is at the heart of the graffiti creations of UK artist Angus, where his works of art are influenced by cartoon characters, superheroes and Minions.

Aryz

If you catch sight of a distinguished-looking dog wearing clothes, covering five floors of the walls of a building in Bristol, then you will instantly know it is the work of Spanish artist, Aryz.

Aspire

If you stumble across artworks on walls around Bristol depicting birds surrounded by neon colours, then chances are it will be the work of talented UK graffiti artist, Aspire.

Cheba

This graffiti artist has a penchant for painting astral scenes around Bristol, in particular, the Full Moon pub in Stokes Croft displays his most famous illustration.

Dan Kitchener

Dan’s striking Streets of Colour scene on Westbourne Grove cleverly portrays a wet street illuminated by neon signs, reflections, rain and light.

Feek

Unicorn fans should head to St. John’s church, where you will discover a fresco style depiction spray-painted on the wall by local artist, Feek.

Inkie

Bristol-born Inkie is fast earning the same urban artist status as fellow compatriot Banksy, who dominated the scene during the 1980s. He has daubed paint on a pub in Clifton as well as a restaurant in Keynsham, infusing a style influenced by Mayan architecture.

Jonesy

Known for creating bronze sculptures that can be found on walls or at the top of street signs, this UK artist has left his mark in the Leonard’s Lane part of the city.

Odeith

Portuguese urban artist Odeith is famed for the eye-catching illustration of Benny Hill, found covering a wall in Bristol.

Stik

There is a reason why graffiti artist Stik has acquired his name, as his urban illustrations of choice are simple stick figures that can be found gracing large walls around Bristol.

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Stinkfish

Bringing an exotic flavour to the streets of Bristol, Stinkfish’s two most famous pieces include a one-layered stencil portrait of an African girl in Stokes Croft, as well as an Indian girl, entitled Taj Mahal Girl, on Mina Road.

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Top 10 Places to Eat in Bristol

Bristol is one of the fastest growing economies in the UK and the sixth most populous city in the country. The city is perhaps better known though for its incredible culture and this includes a reputation as one of the greatest culinary British cities outside London.

In this guide, we’re going to take a look at what we at Air Bristol consider the top ten places to eat in Bristol in 2019.

The Ox

If you’re looking for steak in Bristol, then The Ox is the place to go. Situated on Corn Street, right in the heart of the medieval old city, don’t be fooled by the Wetherspoons pub above it, walking down the stairs into the decadent dimly lit environment of the Ox is like walking into another world. The menu aims for simple but delicious, using the highest quality, locally supplied meat. You can also expect a delicious range of cocktails from the same team that run both Hyde and Co and the Milk Thistle bars. Probably not the most vegetarian-friendly restaurant on our list though; even the decor is animal themed with taxidermied animals lining the walls.

the 

Pony & Trap

Step outside of the city proper, into the beautiful scenery of Chew Valley. Here, the Pony & Trap brings a Michelin Star to a traditional country pub. This is a 200 year-old local pub that’s still in use by farmers and other residents from the area and the food does focus on simplicity and local produce. In quality and flavour, it does, however, earn that star. Try the tasting menu for £60.

Pasta Loco

You may have to book far in advance to guarantee a table, but there’s a reason Pasta Loco is so popular; the pasta on offer from their simple short menu is simply out of this world. Popular recipes include the linguine carbonara and, on the drinks menu, the Negroni. Cotham Hill is gaining a reputation for hosting some of Bristol’s finest new eateries and Pasta Loco is quite possibly the jewel in the crown.

Casamia Restaurant

More Michelin winning success comes from Casamia. The prices may mean you have to save visits for a special occasion (you’re looking at close to £100 per person for the full menu or Chef’s Table, and it’s non-refundable once you book), but Casamia has a reputation for ambition that has put it at the top of Bristol’s fine dining establishments. This doesn’t make it overly formal – there’s no dress code. A focus on seasonal produce means menus change regularly, though there is an Italian influence.

Bosco Pizzeria

At the top of Bristol pizzeria’s is Bosco. After many holidays in Italy, the owners wanted to recreate authentic Neapolitan pizzas in Bristol. After their early success, they continued to develop a range of Italian dishes to elevate their menu further. Find them on Regent Street, right in the heart of Clifton.

Thali

Just down the road from Bosco is one branch of Thali, if you’d rather Indian than Italian. Other branches are in Montpelier, Totterdown, Southville and Easton. Thali refers to the Indian style of serving several dishes on one plate, and the restaurant menu spans the breadth of the Indian subcontinent. Thali started at Glastonbury as a street food truck and it still serves plenty of “roadside” dishes. There’s a kid’s menu and plenty of vegetarian and vegan options. Thali operates under the principle of “jugaad”, which means doing more with less. This method has obviously paid off, as in 2013 it became the first group of Indian restaurants to be awarded three stars by the Sustainable Restaurant Association.

Bulrush

Back to Cotham for Bulrush, recently awarded its own Michelin Star. Chef George Livesey trained with the Roux brothers and worked at a range of fine dining restaurants. His skill and experience show in this modern, clever kitchen full of bold flavours and local produce. Add an excellent wine list and top quality service for a truly delightful experience. The building that formerly housed a greengrocer isn’t an obvious restaurant location and Bulrush’s front isn’t the most stand-out, but the food is certainly worth it.

Bellita

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Yet another Cotham Hill delight is Bellita or Little Beauty. As you might expect from the name, this is a bar for tapas and drinks, where you can just as easily grab a quick bite as sit for a proper meal. Whilst produce is locally sourced, recipes are inspired by the Middle East and North Africa as well as Spain. Sit down with a friend and share one of the tasty plates. Of particular note is the wine list, on which every wine producer is female.

Bravas

Another source of tapas on Cotham Hill is the Spanish-themed Bravas. Here it’s not just the food and drink, but the décor that adds to the authenticity. The staff even go on regular research trips to Spain to meet producers and try out new recipes. The menu changes every day depending on what local and seasonal produce is available, with both common and unusual tapas dishes available. The warm, sociable atmosphere makes for a welcoming ambience and the open kitchen helps connect customers with their food through both sight and smell.

St Nicholas Market

If you are looking for independent retailers, St Nicholas Market has the largest collection in Bristol. This includes a range of eateries, with cuisines from Greece, China, Portugal, India, the Caribbean, Japan and South Africa. There are also specialist restaurants for everything from sausages or pies to a vegetarian and vegan café or a juice shop.

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Top 10 Night Clubs in Bristol

Bristol Nightclubs

Often doubling as live music venues, the city has night clubs on boats and in basements, themed around different music styles or cultures, karaoke or the 80s. Whatever you’re looking for, chances are there’s a Bristol night club that delivers the vibe you’re looking for.

1. Motion

Regarded as one of the best clubs in the world, Motion has made the transition from skatepark to one of the UK’s top venues for world-renowned DJs. This massive club close to Temple Meads station may look unprepossessing but the names behind the decks are world class. There’s something for everyone across the entire complex from Hospitality events, Run, Dazed, legendary day parties in the summer and Bingo Lingo. If you’re in Bristol looking for a big club night, then you’d be hard pressed to beat Motion. The club regularly hosts big nights which often sell out so pre-buying tickets is recommended.

2. Crofters Rights

Crofters Rights, located in Stokes Croft, is a staple for partiers and students alike. Serving up a selection of excellent beers and ciders on tap and music that will keep you dancing through until the early hours. At the back of the bar is a dancefloor area which homes a huge disco ball right in the centre of the ceiling – and nothing sets the party atmosphere quite like a giant disco ball!

3. The Bootlegger

Craft beers, cocktails and music combine to make the Bootlegger Bristol’s number one rated nightclub on Tripadvisor. Although technically a cocktail bar, the Bootlegger has a dancefloor so we’ve decided to include it in this list (as we love it!). The cocktail list is extensive (they even serve vegan cocktails) and it’s a perfect Gloucester Road venue if you’re not up to heading down to Stokes Croft for a 5am’er. The venue also plays host to some great live bands.

4. Pryzm

When most people think of a big nightclub, they think of a venue like Pryzm, with its 7 themed rooms and 5 different bars. With a shisha room, different club nights, and a luxurious VIP suite this is a state of the art club that bills itself as a ‘modern-day Colosseum’. It certainly won’t suit your average Motion clubber, being far too mainstream for those more into their underground beats. It certainly goes down well with stags and hens though and those looking for stylish surroundings and wall to wall music across every genre, from EDM to pure 80s cheese.

5. Love Inn

In the heart of fashionable and party central Stokes Croft, the Love Inn is one of the best clubs in central Bristol for a late night boogie. In the daytime, the venue serves food with some fantastic pop-ups but by night it becomes one big dancefloor; all that the venue is not particularly big that’s certainly part of its intimate charm with clubbers literally arm’s length from the DJ booth. Brought to you by the people behind Love Saves the Day, you would expect high-quality DJs and the venue doesn’t disappoint. The music varies but the club is known for hosting some of the best minimal house and techno nights in Bristol. It’s one of the city’s latest opening venues as well, with some nights going on until 6am.

6. Attic Bar

Full Moon Attic Bar, which is located right at the start of the nightlife hub that is Stokes Croft, is one of the most popular pubs in Bristol. Offering a great selection of lagers, Real Ales, ciders and much more, alongside great music every night with DJs playing every weekend. Expect Dub, Reggae, Deep House, Techno and so much more!

7. Queenshilling

Bristol has one of the best LGBTQ+ scenes in the country and at its heart is the venerable Queenshilling, the oldest gay club in the city. Housed in a fabulous Art Deco building, this award-winning club hosts a number of themed nights plus one of the best karaoke nights anywhere. Located at the centre of Frogmore Street, Queenshilling is the beating heart of the LGBTQ+ scene alongside the Bristol Bear Bar. OMG, and a host of other great bars and clubs.

8. Thekla

An old cargo ship from the 1950s, Thekla is one of the biggest live music venues in the country and an award winning one at that. After years of being run as an underground nightclub, 2006 saw the DHP Family take over and now host a range of music from artists such as Lowkey, Rhys Lewis, Rebecca Black, Dub War and many more. Located in Bristol City Centre’s Floating Harbour, this 600-capacity boat is open all hours of the day, with several events each week.

Thekla, award winning nightcub. Moored at Bristol Harbour

9. Basement 45

Three dance floors, three bars and a location in one of the most dynamic areas of the city make Basement 45 one of the best DJ led clubs around. A fixture since 2009, this 300 capacity club is an intimate venue with a reputation for promoting local labels, artists, and promoters. Located very centrally on Frogmore Street, there’s always a good crowd and this subterranean club is at the heart of city centre dance culture. Over the years Basement 45 has mutated from just another drum ‘n’ bass venue to something much more interesting with a broader spectrum of music and offering DJ lessons and equipment hire as well as banging club nights.

10. Mr Wolfs

Mr Wolfs is a family run venue which has been around for 20-years now, that celebrates and promotes the diverse, creative and talent that Bristols music scene has to offer. You’ll find a variety of entertainment such as open mic nights, DJs, brass bands, and award-winning artists throughout the week. There are two areas to dance within the venue as well as a photobooth to snap a photo with your friends that you probably won’t want to remember in the morning!

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What to do in Bristol this Christmas

What to do in Bristol this Christmas

Home to around 400,000 people Bristol is the largest city in the South West of England and just a short drive away from neighbouring Bath, with its historical spa baths dating back to Roman times.

So whether you fancy lights and colour, quiet contemplation or a retail bonanza, here are some of our favourite things to do in Bristol over the Christmas holidays.

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What to do in Bristol this Christmas
What to do in Bristol this Christmas

What to do in Bristol this Christmas

What to do in Bristol this Christmas

1. Celebrate the Solstice

2. Winter Wonderland at Cribbs Causeway

3. Bath Skyline Walk

4. Gourmet Picture Company at Royal Victoria Park

5. Grayson Perry exhibition at Bristol’s Arnolfini

6. Absorb some History from Over the Pond

7. Treat the Kids at Bristol Zoo

8. Bristol Christmas Market

9. Attend a Masquerade Ball

10. Christmas Carols at Bristol Cathedral

Whatever your perfect way of celebrating the best season of the year, you’ll certainly find plenty of options for doing so in style in Bristol this year. Wrap up warm, gather friends and family, switch off the digital screens and go and experience some of what our fine and historic city has to offer.