Check Availability – How We Match You
Tell us what you need — we'll find the right fit
- Share your dates, group size and preferred area — we'll check what's available
- Get options that match — filtered by budget, parking, or specific needs
- Book direct with local support — no platform fees, real people you can call
Most enquiries answered same-day during office hours
Why Consider Airbnb Alternatives in Exeter?
Airbnb can be convenient, but many guests prefer a more predictable, locally supported option — especially for work trips, family visits, relocations and longer stays. If you're still researching areas and practicalities, our Airbnb in Exeter guide covers best areas, parking tips and busy dates.
- Avoid platform fees – Airbnb may charge a service fee (shown separately or built into the total price depending on the listing; fees vary by booking). Booking direct avoids platform fee add-ons
- Local support – speak to a real person in Exeter who can help quickly if something needs attention
- Clear standards – managed accommodation with consistent expectations around cleanliness, check-in information and practical essentials
- More transparent communication – direct answers before you book, and a clearer route to support during your stay
- A smoother experience for longer stays – a better fit when you're in Exeter for weeks rather than a weekend
Why Book with Gillams Properties?
- Local Exeter team since 2007 – 18+ years helping guests find accommodation
- Same-day response – enquiries answered within hours during office hours
- In-house maintenance – issues fixed quickly by our own team, not outsourced
- Direct contact – call 01392 459 900 or email lettings@gillams-properties.co.uk
Types of Short-Stay Accommodation in Exeter
If you're looking for an Airbnb alternative in Exeter, these are the most common accommodation types we can typically help with — depending on dates and requirements:
- Serviced accommodation – fully managed short stays with essentials typically included (utilities, Wi-Fi, linen and towels). Perfect for corporate bookings or anyone wanting a hassle-free alternative to Airbnb.
- Whole houses – ideal for families and groups who want space, privacy and a full home setup
- City-centre apartments – great for walkable stays close to restaurants, shops and attractions
- Longer short stays – useful for relocation, project work or visiting family when you need a temporary home base
Prices vary by dates, length of stay and property type — share your requirements and we'll point you to the most suitable option.
If you're looking specifically for short stay accommodation in Exeter, see our Short Stay Lets page.
What's Included in Your Stay
Our short-stay properties are set up to be ready to live in from day one:
- All essential bills – electricity, gas, water typically included
- Wi-Fi included – suitable for work or streaming in most properties (ask if you need guaranteed speeds)
- Fresh bedding and towels – hotel-quality linens provided
- Fully equipped kitchen – cooker, microwave, kettle, pots, pans, and tableware
- Professional cleaning – before your arrival and after your departure
Exact inclusions vary by property — we'll confirm everything before you book.
Who Books Airbnb-Style Stays in Exeter?
Short-stay accommodation in Exeter is popular with many types of visitor:
- Professionals on work assignments – NHS locums, business consultants, contractors, and temporary workers who need a home rather than a hotel.
- Families visiting students – parents attending graduation, moving-in weekends, or simply visiting for the weekend.
- People relocating – needing somewhere comfortable while waiting for a house purchase to complete or a tenancy to start.
- Conference attendees – Exeter University and business events attract visitors who prefer self-catering to hotels.
- Tourists exploring Devon – using Exeter as a base for day trips to the coast, Dartmoor, or historic Devon towns.
- Wedding and event guests – group accommodation near Exeter venues, often more economical than multiple hotel rooms.
Whatever brings you to Exeter, a self-catering property often offers better value, more space, and more flexibility than hotel alternatives.
Need company invoicing? For stays with PO numbers and VAT invoices, see our serviced accommodation in Exeter for contractors & business travel.
Airbnb vs Book Direct vs Serviced Accommodation
Quick comparison: Which option suits your stay?
| Feature | Airbnb | Book Direct | Serviced Accommodation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best for | Weekend breaks, tourists | Families, relocations | Contractors, corporate |
| Platform fees | Yes (varies) | None | None |
| Company invoicing | Limited | On request | Yes + PO/VAT |
| Local support | Via platform | Direct contact | Direct contact |
| Typical stay | 2-7 nights | 1-12 weeks | 1-6 months |
| Flexibility | Platform rules | Negotiable | Highly flexible |
When to Choose Each Option
Choose Airbnb when:
- You want instant booking
- You're browsing many options quickly
- Short weekend break (2-3 nights)
Choose Book Direct when:
- You want local support
- You're staying 1-6 weeks
- You prefer no platform fees
Choose Serviced Accommodation when:
- Your company is booking
- You need VAT invoices/PO numbers
- You're staying 1-6 months
Airbnb vs Direct Booking in Exeter
If you're comparing Airbnb vs direct booking in Exeter, the main differences are usually service fees, support and flexibility. Airbnb fees may be shown as a separate guest service fee or built into the total price, depending on the listing. Booking direct avoids platform fee add-ons and gives you local support and flexibility for longer stays.
Here's a closer look at how the two options compare:
| Feature | Direct booking (local agent) | Airbnb |
|---|---|---|
| Platform service fee | No platform service fee | Fees may be shown as a separate guest service fee or built into the total price, depending on the listing |
| Support | Local team you can contact directly | Support and communication mainly via platform messaging |
| Flexibility | Often more adaptable for work/relocation stays (subject to terms) | Policy-led changes/cancellations (set by listing + platform rules) |
| Payment | Paid directly to the managing agent | Paid via the platform checkout |
When direct booking is a better fit
- You want local support and a clearer point of contact
- You prefer consistent standards and straightforward communication
- You're staying longer, travelling for work, or need practical flexibility
When Airbnb may suit you better
- You want to browse a large marketplace and book instantly
- You're happy managing everything within the platform (messages, policies, checkout)
Both options can work well — it just depends on what matters most for your stay. If you'd like an Airbnb alternative in Exeter, share your dates, budget and preferred area and we'll recommend the best managed option for you.
How to Book a Short Stay in Exeter
Booking directly with Gillams Properties is straightforward:
- Send us your requirements – dates, group size, preferred area, and any specific needs (parking, pets, accessibility)
- We match you with options – you'll receive details and photos of suitable properties
- Confirm your booking – simple paperwork, clear pricing, no platform fees
- Receive arrival information – address, key collection, local recommendations
- Enjoy your stay – with local support if you need anything
For busy periods like graduation week, booking early is recommended. Contact us as soon as you know your dates.
About Gillams Properties
Gillams Properties is a local Exeter letting agency, established in 2007 and trusted by guests and residents for over 18 years. We offer short-stay accommodation across Exeter for visitors, contractors, and families.
When you book with us, you benefit from:
- Established local presence – we've been in Exeter since 2007
- Responsive support team – issues get addressed quickly
- Well-maintained homes – clean, quality accommodation
- Real people you can talk to – our office is in Exeter
Whether you're looking for an Airbnb alternative in Exeter or a short-term let, our local team can help you find the right property.
"Airbnb" is a trademark of Airbnb, Inc. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by Airbnb.
Browse Properties in Exeter
Looking for listed properties now? Browse our current listings:
- View All Listed Properties – our complete inventory with photos, prices, and availability dates
- Student Houses in Exeter – 2-8 bedroom houses suitable for groups and families
- Student Accommodation Exeter – comprehensive options near Streatham and St Luke's campuses
- Browse by Area – Pennsylvania, St Davids, Heavitree, Mount Pleasant and more
Can't find what you're looking for? Tell us your requirements and we'll match you with available options.
Related Services
Depending on your requirements, these related services might be a better fit:
- Short Stay Lets – flexible accommodation from 2 nights to several months
- Serviced Accommodation – corporate stays with company invoicing, PO numbers, and VAT invoices
- Rooms to Rent – professional house shares with bills included for longer-term stays
- Airbnb in Exeter – best areas, parking tips, and busy dates to know
Viewing Checklist
- Compare the total cost including any Airbnb fees against direct booking prices
- Check reviews carefully – look for recent reviews and specific comments about cleanliness and accuracy
- Confirm the exact location before booking – Exeter addresses can be spread across different neighbourhoods
- Ask about parking, especially for city centre properties
- Check cancellation policies – direct bookings may offer more flexibility
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Not checking the total cost – platform fees and taxes can change the final price vs the headline nightly rate (varies by booking)
- Assuming all Airbnb properties are professionally managed – many are spare rooms in someone's home
- Booking late for popular dates like graduation week – prices rise and availability drops
- Not reading the full listing description – check things like stairs, parking, and neighbourhood