top of page

WHAT IS SHORT TERM RENTALS?

Updated: Jul 11, 2023

Understanding Short Term Rentals:

A Comprehensive Guide


Understanding Short Term Rentals A Comprehensive Guide

WHAT IS SHORT TERM RENTALS?

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on short-term rentals. As the real estate landscape continues to evolve, short-term rentals have emerged as a popular and profitable option for property owners and a convenient alternative for travelers and temporary residents. In this guide, we'll delve into what short-term rentals are, their benefits, challenges, and their impact on the real estate industry.


Short Term Apartments in Dallas - A page on the Corporate Housing Travelers website that offers short-term apartments in Dallas. It caters to clients looking for temporary accommodation, with a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets. click here





What is a Short-Term Rental?


Short-term rental, often abbreviated as STR, is a term used to describe a property that is rented out for a short period. These properties are typically fully furnished and include apartments, vacation homes, or rooms in shared spaces. The duration of the rental can vary but is usually less than six months.


Definition of Short-Term Rental


A short-term rental is a property that is rented out for a short period, typically less than six months. These properties are fully furnished, making them a convenient option for travelers or temporary residents.


WHAT IS SHORT TERM RENTALS?

Takeaways - For a successful short-term rental, property owners should:

  1. Investigate local laws and limitations that apply to short-term rentals.

  2. Confirm that the zoning of the property permits short-term leasing.

  3. Procure the necessary licenses from municipal authorities.

  4. Be ready for any extra tax obligations associated with short-term rentals.

Types of Short Term Rentals

Types of Short-Term Rentals


Short-term rentals come in various forms, including:


Apartments:


These are individual units in a larger residential building. They come fully furnished and are ideal for solo travelers or small families.


Vacation Homes:


These are standalone properties, such as houses or villas, that are rented out. They are typically located in vacation hotspots and offer more privacy and space than apartments.


Rooms in Shared Spaces:


In this type of short-term rental, only a single room or a portion of a property is rented out. This is a cost-effective option for budget travelers.


Visit this blog post to learn more about corporate housing.

The Rise of Short Term Rentals

The Rise of Short Term Rentals


The concept of short term rentals is not new. However, the advent of online platforms like Airbnb and VRBO has revolutionized the industry. These platforms have made it easier than ever for property owners to connect with potential guests, opening up a world of possibilities for both hosts and travelers. Today, you can find short term rentals in virtually every corner of the globe, catering to a diverse array of tastes and budgets.


Short-Term Rentals WEBSITES

  1. Corporate Housing Travelers - This website offers an array of corporate housing solutions for travelers. These furnished apartments provide a comfortable and convenient living arrangement for those who need short or long-term accommodation.

  2. Furnished Apartments Dallas - Specializes in providing fully furnished apartments in Dallas. They offer both short and long-term rentals, making them an ideal choice for corporate travelers, vacationers, or those undergoing home renovations.

  3. Booking Corporate Housing - This platform allows users to book corporate housing units around the country. The site showcases various options, from budget-friendly studios to luxurious apartments, ensuring users can find accommodation that suits their needs and budget.

  4. Hosting Zak - Hosting Zak offers a wide range of serviced apartments. Catering to both business and leisure travelers, their accommodations are known for comfort, convenience, and style.

  5. Houston Corporate Housing - Houston Corporate Housing provides high-quality furnished apartments in the Houston area. Ideal for corporate travelers or families in transition, they offer a more homely and cost-effective alternative to traditional hotels.

  6. Pleasant Stay Apt - This company specializes in providing furnished apartments for short and long-term stays. Their apartments are designed to give the comfort and convenience of a home away from home.

  7. Furnished Apartment Medical Center - Offering furnished apartments near medical centers, this website is particularly useful for medical professionals and patients seeking nearby accommodation. The apartments come fully equipped with all the amenities needed for a comfortable stay.

  8. Short Term Apartments in Dallas - A page on the Corporate Housing Travelers website that offers short-term apartments in Dallas. It caters to clients looking for temporary accommodation, with a variety of options to suit different needs and budgets.



Benefits of Short Term Rentals

The Benefits of Short-Term Rentals


Short-term rentals offer a host of benefits for both hosts and guests. Let's delve into some of these advantages.


Benefits for Hosts

  • Lucrative Source of Income: Short-term rentals can be a profitable venture for property owners. They often yield higher returns compared to long-term rentals.

  • Flexibility: Hosts have the freedom to decide when and for how long they want to rent out their property. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for those who use their property occasionally.

  • Property Maintenance: Regular use and maintenance of the property can prevent it from falling into disrepair.

Benefits for Guests

  • Affordability: Short-term rentals are often cheaper than traditional hotel stays, especially for longer durations.

  • Home-like Comfort: These rentals offer a homely environment – complete with kitchen facilities and more living space – that hotels often can't match.

  • Variety: From chic city-center apartments to cozy country homes, short-term rentals come in all shapes and sizes, offering a wide variety to choose from.

Challenges in the Short Term Rental Industry


Challenges and Controversies Surrounding Short-Term Rentals


Despite their benefits, short-term rentals have also sparked controversy and challenges in some cities. Let's explore some of these issues.


Impact on Housing Prices


Critics argue that short-term rentals can drive up housing prices. When property owners opt for short-term rentals over long-term ones, it reduces the supply of available housing, which can inflate prices.


Housing Shortages


In areas with high demand for housing, short-term rentals can exacerbate housing shortages by taking units off the market for long-term residents.


Community Concerns


There are also concerns about the impact of short-term rentals on local communities. Temporary residents may not have a stake in the community and may not be as conscientious about their behavior, leading to potential disturbances for permanent residents.



Understanding Short Term Rental Regulations

Regulations on Short-Term Rentals


In response to these challenges, many cities have implemented regulations on short-term rentals. These regulations aim to balance the benefits of short-term rentals with the needs of long-term residents.


Permit Requirements


Some cities require hosts to obtain permits before they can rent out their property. This allows the city to keep track of the number of short-term rentals and ensure they comply with local laws.


Rental Duration Limits


Some regulations limit the number of nights a property can be rented out in a year. This is to prevent properties from being permanently converted into short-term rentals, thereby preserving housing for long-term residents.


Examples of City Regulations


Different cities have different regulations. For instance, in Santa Cruz, California, local supervisors have discussed parking restrictions in areas with many short-term rentals to prioritize local residents' ability to park. In London, short-term rentals were restricted to 90 days per year as of 2019.




Platforms for Short Term Rentals

Platforms Facilitating Short-Term Rentals


The rise of short-term rentals can be largely attributed to online platforms that facilitate these rentals. These platforms connect hosts with guests, provide tools for managing bookings, payments, and communication, and offer support and dispute resolution services.


Airbnb


Airbnb is one of the largest and most well-known short-term rental platforms. It operates in over 220 countries and has more than 7 million listings.


VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner)


VRBO is a vacation rental platform that allows property owners to rent out their homes, condos, cabins, and other properties to travelers.


HomeAway


HomeAway is another vacation rental platform that allows homeowners to rent out their properties to travelers.


Booking.com


While primarily known for hotel bookings, Booking.com also offers a selection of short-term rental properties, including apartments, vacation homes, and villas.


TripAdvisor


In addition to reviews and information about hotels and attractions, TripAdvisor also offers a selection of short-term rental properties.


Short-Term Rentals

  1. Corporate Housing Travelers - Corporate Housing Travelers provides short-term rentals perfect for business and leisure travelers. Offering a variety of furnished apartments, they provide all the comforts of home, making temporary stays more convenient and comfortable.

  2. Furnished Apartments Dallas - This website specializes in short-term, fully furnished apartment rentals in Dallas. With a variety of properties available, Furnished Apartments Dallas caters to a range of needs, whether you're on a business trip, vacation, or in the middle of a home move.

  3. Booking Corporate Housing - Booking Corporate Housing offers a variety of short-term rental options for corporate travelers across the United States. Users can find accommodations that fit their budget and needs, from affordable studios to luxury apartments.

  4. Hosting Zak - Hosting Zak is a provider of serviced apartments that cater to short-term stays. Whether for business or pleasure, their comfortable and stylish apartments offer a home-away-from-home experience for all travelers.



Short-Term Rentals Vs Hotels

Short-Term Rentals Vs Hotels


When it comes to accommodation, travelers often find themselves choosing between short-term rentals and hotels. Both options have their pros and cons.


Comparison of Amenities

  • Hotels: Hotels often offer amenities like room service, daily housekeeping, and on-site facilities like restaurants, gyms, and concierge services.

  • Short-Term Rentals: These properties often come with home-like amenities, such as full kitchens, laundry facilities, and more living space. Some high-end rentals also offer luxury amenities like private pools or hot tubs.

Cost Differences

  • Hotels: The cost of a hotel room typically includes the use of the hotel's amenities and services. However, additional charges like resort fees can add to the cost.

  • Short-Term Rentals: The cost of a short-term rental often depends on the property's size, location, and the amenities it offers. There are usually no additional fees, making it a more transparent and sometimes cheaper option.

Privacy and Space

  • Hotels: While hotels offer private rooms, public areas are usually shared with other guests.

  • Short-Term Rentals: These rentals often provide more privacy as guests rent the entire property. This is particularly beneficial for large groups or families traveling together.



How to Make Your Short Term Rental Stand Out

How to Make Your Short Term Rental Stand Out

With so many properties available, making your short term rental stand out can be a challenge. Here are a few tips to help you attract guests:

  • Quality photos: High-quality photos are crucial for showcasing your property. Make sure to highlight all the key features and amenities.

  • Detailed description: Provide a detailed description of your property and what guests can expect during their stay. Be sure to highlight any unique features or benefits.

  • Competitive pricing: Price your property competitively to attract guests. Consider the prices of similar properties in your area and what they offer.

  • Positive reviews: Encourage your guests to leave reviews after their stay. Positive reviews can greatly enhance your property's appeal.

  • Responsive communication: Respond quickly and professionally to any inquiries or issues. Good communication can make a big difference in a guest's experience.




FAQs about Short Term Rentals

People also ask (FAQs)


What is the definition of a short-term rental?


A short-term rental, also known as a vacation rental, is a property that is rented for a short period, typically less than six months. These rentals can range from apartments to condos to single-family homes and are often fully furnished. They provide a home-like environment and are a popular choice for travelers seeking more space and amenities than a hotel room. Learn more


What is considered a short-term rental?


A rental property is considered short-term if it is rented for less than 30 days at a time. This can include properties listed on vacation rental sites like Airbnb, VRBO, and others. Short-term rentals are often used for vacation stays, business trips, or temporary housing. Learn more


How do you describe a short-term rental property?


A short-term rental property is typically a fully furnished home or apartment that is rented for short periods, usually less than six months. These properties often come with amenities like a full kitchen, laundry facilities, and more space than a typical hotel room. They provide a home-like environment and can be found in a variety of locations, from city centers to rural areas. Learn more


What is the definition of short term?


In general, "short term" refers to a period of less than one year. However, the definition can vary depending on the context. For example, in the context of rentals, a short-term rental is typically considered to be less than six months. Learn more



How do I make my short-term rental stand out?


To make your short-term rental stand out, consider offering unique amenities, providing excellent customer service, and ensuring your listing has high-quality photos and a detailed description. Additionally, collecting positive reviews from past guests can also help your property stand out to potential renters. Learn more


How much time is considered short term?


The definition of "short term" can vary depending on the context. In general, it refers to a period of less than one year. In the context of rentals, a short-term rental is typically considered to be less than six months. Learn more


How long is short term time?


Short term generally refers to a period of less than one year. However, in different contexts, the definition of short term can vary. For example, in the rental industry, a short-term lease is typically considered to be less than six months. Learn more



What is considered short term vs long-term?


In general, short term refers to a period of less than one year, while long term refers to a period of one year or more. However, these definitions can vary depending on the context. For example, in the rental industry, a short-term lease is typically less than six months, while a long-term lease is usually for a year or more. Learn more


Please note that the term "short term" can have different meanings in different contexts, so it's important to clarify the definition when discussing short-term rentals.


Related searches to WHAT IS SHORT TERM RENTALS?


  1. What is the definition of a short-term rental?

  2. How does IRS define short-term rental?

  3. What is considered a short-term rental in Dallas?

  4. How do you describe a short-term rental property?

  5. What is the definition of short term?

  6. How do I make my short-term rental stand out?

  7. How much time is considered short term?

  8. How long is short term time?

  9. What is considered short term vs long-term?




Comments


bottom of page