Absolute cleanliness.

Someone reliable to manage and clean the house if you don't live nearby.

Open fireplace and background heating.

Good furniture - no second-hand cast-offs.

No bunk beds for adults.

Instructions folder on everything from how to work the heating system to where to leave the rubbish.

A shower and, ideally, a bath too.

Iron and ironing board; kettles; toaster; three-ring cooker with oven; range of saucepans.

A "yes" policy on pets - 1 in 3 UK holidaymakers like to take their pets on hols. Having a cot, high chair and safety gate will improve your chances of getting families with young children.

Smoke alarm and fire blanket.

Supplies of cleaning materials, toilet paper, kitchen paper, waste bins, pegs, hoover and/or carpet sweeper, sweeping brush.

Torch, candles, spare light bulbs.