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Property Ownership Transfer Process

When a property managed by Hometime changes ownership, we follow a structured transfer process to ensure a smooth transition for bookings, listings and financials.

This guide outlines what to expect during the property ownership change process, including the following key areas:

  • Confirmation of the property transfer date and when the new homeowner will gain access to their portal.
  • The date from which the new homeowner will begin receiving revenue from the property.
  • How pre-existing listings (Airbnb, Booking.com, VRBO, and Hometime’s Direct Booking Site) will be managed during the transfer process.
  • Whether pre-existing guest reviews will be able to be transferred to the new listings.
  • How Hometime will handle pre-existing forward bookings and whether they can be transferred to the new listings.

Process Timeline (28 Business Days Total)

  1. Contract Signed (Day 1)
    A Hometime Property Consultant contacts the new Homeowner to confirm the agreement.
    ⬇️
  2. Introduction to Customer Experience
    The Homeowner is introduced to Hometime’s Customer Experience Team.
    ⬇️
  3. Financial Transition Commences
     The financial transition begins in line with the agreed settlement date.
    ⬇️
  4. OTA Listings Relaunched and Updated
    Listings across relevant OTAs are relaunched and updated as required.
    ⬇️
  5. Forward Bookings Transferred
    The transfer of forward bookings to the new ownership begins.
    ⬇️
  6. Transfer Date (Day 28)
     The Homeowner receives access to the Homeowner Portal.

Transfer Date 

The transfer date is the official date that ownership is transitioned within our systems. Key details you need to know regarding the transfer date:

  • Will occur after the property settlement date.
  • Is typically completed within 28 business days of the management contract being signed.
  • Will be confirmed by our team once timelines are aligned.
  • On the transfer date you will receive access to the Hometime Owner Portal.

Please note that the transfer date cannot occur before settlement, as legal ownership must first be finalised.

This timeframe ensures all platforms, bookings and financial records are transitioned accurately and in compliance with platform requirements.


Revenue Commencement Date for the New Homeowner 

From the settlement date, the new homeowner becomes entitled to receive rental income following a property ownership transfer. Please note the following key areas:

  • The settlement date is recognised as the official date on which the new homeowner assumes ownership of the property. Please note this is different from the transfer date.
  • Any revenue from guest bookings happening on or after the settlement date will be payable to the new homeowner.
  • Hometime processes homeowner payments twice per month.
  • Due to administrative requirements during the Property Ownership Transfer process, the first payment to the new homeowner will be processed in the next scheduled payment cycle following the transfer date. 

What Happens to Each Pre-existing Listing? 

When ownership changes, the property is relaunched in our internal property management system under the new owner to ensure a clean and accurate transition. For some Online Travel Agents (OTAs), such as Airbnb, a new listing needs to be created.

This approach ensures all homeowner disclosures and statements are correctly attributed and that the listing reflects any updates or improvements made as part of the transition.


Pre-Existing Airbnb Listing Reviews Transferability

Where the existing listing is in good standing — with a strong rating and no suspension risk — we can often explore transferring reviews to preserve its performance history.

If there are rating concerns or compliance risks, starting fresh can be a strategic advantage, allowing us to relaunch on a stronger foundation.

In some cases, historical Airbnb reviews may be eligible for transfer. However, platforms apply strict criteria.

For example, Airbnb requires:

  • A minimum 4.6 overall rating.
  • No suspension risk. *Please note it is possible for a 4.8 star listing to be under suspension risk.
  • No serious recent negative reviews.

If these criteria are not met, reviews cannot be transferred, and the new listing will launch without historical ratings.

We will assess eligibility and advise you accordingly.

Booking Transfers

All forward bookings across OTAs are carefully transferred when required. Guests are informed that:

  • Their reservation remains valid
  • There are no pricing changes
  • Their stay details remain the same

There may be short processing delays during this transition, but our team closely monitors the process to ensure a smooth transition.

What The Entire Process Means for You

  • The transfer process takes up to 28 business days.
  • The transfer date cannot occur before the settlement date.
  • For certain OTAs, a new listing must be created to facilitate a change of ownership under Hometime.
  • Any revenue generated from bookings with a check-in date on or after the settlement date will be paid to the new homeowner.
  • Existing forward bookings will be protected and managed as part of the transition.
  • The transfer or retention of guest reviews is not guaranteed and remains subject to each OTA’s individual policies.

Our process is designed to protect booking continuity while ensuring full compliance with OTA platform and financial requirements.

If you have any questions about your upcoming ownership transfer, your Hometime Property Consultant will guide you through the next steps.