The British Open has been in full swing this weekend. Scotland is opening its arms to receive in a slew of visitors anxious to see the world’s best golfers play on the "Old Course" where golf began at St Andrews. There are over a quarter of a million people expected to descend upon the area to watch golf and do some spending.

With 260,000 to 280,000 visitors needing housing reservations, local hotels and bed and breakfasts have been booked full for months if not the year. Others must look to real estate offered vacation rentals, open student housing, and there are many that rent out extra rooms in local’s homes. Some go away and rent out their whole home to those seeking lodging.

The British Open has allowed many to get a good financial boost. One bed and breakfast, Six Murray Park, like others, imposed a minimum 7 day stay with an overall price of 1,800 pounds. The usual rate is 70 pounds a night. Most hotels and other establishments have charged at least double if not four times the usual rate.

For those renting out property it gave the owners funds in which to catch up financial burdens and build stability. Taxes, property improvement, and interior upgrades were possible uses of the extra income. Many available properties become sold as out of towners seek to invest in new property.

One rental agency estimated that one rental for a week during the Open was 4,500-6,800 as a typical charge and a higher rental could go for 20,000 pounds.

In a town where average home prices sell for about 431,585 pounds, high when compared to the national average or 147,854, the opportunity for homeowners to rent out their properties during the major golf tournament is welcomed. One resident reported she will move out during the duration, go on vacation and come home to a profit for her effort.