Welcome to our new Business Spotlight series which showcases some of the great businesses around the Highlands.
As well as discovering what the business is all about, it’s also your chance to get to know a little bit about the person who makes it all happen.
First up is the wonderful Catherine Kidd from North Coast Holiday Homes. A big thank you to Catherine for being our first guinea pig!
How would you describe your business in one sentence?
North Coast Holiday Homes makes exploring the Highlands effortless, providing welcoming, fully-prepared properties that feel like a home away from home.
How did you get started?
I first got into the holiday letting industry after returning to the Highlands from university. I began with a part-time housekeeping role before securing a position in the office, where I focused on legal compliance and property maintenance. As the only full-time member of the team, I often covered for part-time colleagues and holiday absences, which gave me a thorough understanding of the ins and outs of the organisation throughout the various roles.
After leaving the company, I began supporting property owners by offering short-term let licence application support across Scotland. When I later heard of the company’s unfortunate closure, I put together a management service and got in touch with the wonderful property owners I had previously worked with to offer them a service they urgently needed at that time.
Initially, I only provided management services, with reservations being handled through another agency. However, after encountering logistical challenges, I decided to establish North Coast Holiday Homes as a full management and letting agency – keeping everything under one roof. This allows for a better experience for both own wonderful guests and property owners, and I haven’t looked back since!
…and how are things going currently?
Great! We’re nearing the end of our busy peak season, with bookings due to start slowing down a little in October. We’ve been welcoming some fantastic guests from all over the world, who are all here to enjoy and appreciate this wonderful area we call home. Behind the scenes, we’re also working on some exciting new properties that we hope to be able to offer for the 2026 season!
What are the small, super-niche things that you love about your business?
An empty inbox is always a bonus – though I doubt I’ll see one of those for another month or two! Running my business has also opened the door to some fantastic perks, like enjoying great travel discounts and discovering unique, quirky properties across Scotland. Thanks to working with property owners all over the country, I’ve had the chance to stay in places I might never have come across otherwise.
What is the biggest challenge about operating a small business in the Highlands?
Tourism in the Highlands is naturally seasonal, which means we need to plan for the quieter months. We generally work around six months ahead — in winter we’re planning for summer, and in summer we’re planning for winter. One of the ways we’re balancing out the seasonal dips is through a growing number of repeat visitors who now choose to stay during the winter, helping to extend the season naturally. On top of that, we have strong contacts with local businesses whose staff regularly require accommodation, ensuring that our properties remain in use even through the colder months.
What is the biggest challenge you’ve faced since starting your business?
One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced has been outsourcing work. We offer a very comprehensive service, which requires round-the-clock attention to ensure our guests, property owners, and their homes are all well cared for. It’s been a real learning curve, and I’ve definitely had to learn how to “let go” a little — though I know there’s still more progress to make on that front!
Why do you think the Highlands is the BEST place to run a small business?
THE PEOPLE! Absolutely, it’s the people—everyone is so lovely to deal with, and there’s such a strong sense of support all around. Whether it’s through networking, interacting with customers and potential clients, or even encounters in everyday life, everyone is so lovely!
What’s something you and your business have done that you’re really proud of?
I’m probably most proud of the reputation we’ve built for the business. Considering how new North Coast Holiday Homes is, I’m pleasantly surprised by how many people have already heard of us! I’m also incredibly proud of how quickly we’ve scaled and the number of fantastic properties we now manage.
What’s playing in the background while you work?
We almost always have some music playing in the background. Right now, it’s Milky Chance or S Club 7 (depending on the day), but ABBA is always a reliable pick to kick off a Monday morning!
What’s your customer round-trip record?
For holiday letting, our furthest property is in Wick, so we’ve occasionally had to make round trips for things like meeting guests or emptying bins — Wick is approximately 45 miles from us. When I first started handling STL Licence applications, I was probably a little too eager to do as much as possible, being so new to the business. I even travelled all the way to Moffat to complete a floorplan at one point! While I wouldn’t do that again, I certainly don’t regret it, as the property owner was incredibly grateful for the extra effort.
What’s your favourite way to unwind after a long day?
A cup of tea and watching a whatever series I am currently binging on Netflix. There is nothing better after a long day in the office.
Tell us one industry secret that we probably won’t know (bonus point if knowing will improve our lives!)
While sites like Airbnb and Booking.com are becoming increasingly popular, it’s always worth reaching out to the property or management agency directly before booking. You’re likely to get a better price for your stay, and you’ll also help the property save on the high commission fees charged by these large booking sites.
What’s next for you or your business?
We have some really exciting projects underway at the moment! I’m currently focused on expanding our services to offer tailored options for property owners with different needs.
Any upcoming events, launches or plans we should keep an eye on?
Check out our website to see new properties going live! We also have a few more in the pipeline, which will be added as soon as the legal licensing process allows.
Where can people find you?
You can find us online via our website at www.northcoastholidayhomes.co.uk
Favourite local spot
Milk and Honey in Dornoch is also my absolute favourite café. Capaldis honeycomb ice cream from either their Brora or Golspie shop is to die for!
Best advice you’ve ever received
Focus on building relationships, not rivalries. Even within the same industry, there are often opportunities for businesses to complement and support one another.
Current obsession
Networking events!
One thing you never leave home without
A mug full of of tea.
Favourite biscuit
Viscount.
Shout-out another small Highland’s business you love at the moment
I won’t plug our other business directly, as that might feel a little cheeky, but I have to say—our laundrette is fantastic! We work with a local lady in Golspie, Margaret, who handles the washing for around 90% of our properties. The results are always excellent: fresh, perfectly ironed laundry that consistently receives praise from our guests.
If anyone would like her details, I’m more than happy to share them—her work truly deserves all the praise!
