Homeowners are being urged to open up their houses to motorbike fans next year.

Registration for Homestay is now open

The Homestay Scheme is operated by Isle of Man firm MiQuando, on behalf of the Department of Enterprise.

It provides an opportunity for households to take in paying visitors for both the TT and Festival of Motorcycling.

During the TT period ‘Homestay Hosts’ can earn up to ?1,800 tax free income.

Households who fail to register will not have access to the tax free limit.

Homestay registration and inspection is compulsory.

MHK Rob Callister has responsibility for Visit Isle of Man and motorsport – he says: “We are once again grateful to all those who offered, and continue to offer, Homestay accommodation and would encourage other homeowners to do the same.

“The Homestay Scheme is vital to accommodate the increase in visitor numbers we witness over these busy periods.

“Making sure these visitors receive the quality and service levels they expect from accommodation providers is paramount to ensuring their safety, as well as contributing to their overall visitor experience. 

“As we continue to invest in and develop the events, we are confident that we will continue to see further growth in the economic value of the TT and Festival of Motorcycling.

“This year’s TT provided an estimated contribution of ?26.8 million to the local economy, an increase of almost 8.9 per cent on 2017.

“We also witnessed the highest recorded number of first time visitors to the Island since the surveys began in 2010.

“The Homestay Scheme is a great asset to showcase the Island’s ‘extraordinary story’ to these visitors through the increased personal contact with our community.’

Registration starts from ?37.50 per year for a new registration and from ?22.50 per year for a re-registration.

The fee includes an inspection visit (for new registrations), plus marketing on the official Homestay website and social media pages.

Registered hosts will have access to the Department’s Public Liability insurance