Short-term rentals (STRs) have transformed the way people travel and stay away from home. From vacation apartments and holiday homes to Airbnb and Vrbo listings, STRs offer flexibility, comfort, and income opportunities for property owners.
In this guide, you’ll learn what a short-term rental is, how it works, its benefits, challenges, and how it differs from long-term rentals.
What Is a Short-Term Rental (STR)?
A short-term rental (STR) is a furnished residential property rented out for a short duration, typically ranging from one night to a few weeks or months. These rentals are commonly used by travelers, tourists, business professionals, or temporary residents.
Short-term rentals are usually booked through online platforms such as:
-
Airbnb
- elevatestr
-
Vrbo
-
Booking.com
-
Expedia
STRs can include apartments, houses, condos, villas, or even private rooms.
How Short-Term Rentals Work
The STR process is simple:
-
Property Listing – Owners list their property on rental platforms with photos, pricing, and rules.
-
Guest Booking – Guests book the property for a short stay.
-
Payment & Check-in – Payment is processed online, and guests receive check-in details.
-
Stay & Checkout – Guests stay temporarily and check out on the agreed date.
Most STRs are fully furnished and include utilities, internet, and basic amenities.
Examples of Short-Term Rentals
Common STR examples include:
-
Vacation homes
-
Holiday apartments
-
Serviced apartments
-
Airbnb rentals
-
Corporate housing
-
Guest houses
Benefits of Short-Term Rentals
For Property Owners
-
Higher rental income compared to long-term leasing
-
Flexible pricing based on demand
-
Personal use of property when not rented
-
Access to global booking platforms
For Guests
-
More space and privacy than hotels
-
Home-like amenities (kitchen, laundry, living areas)
-
Flexible stay options
-
Often more affordable for groups or long stays
Short-Term Rental vs Long-Term Rental
| Feature | Short-Term Rental | Long-Term Rental |
|---|---|---|
| Lease Duration | Days to weeks | 6–12 months |
| Furnishing | Fully furnished | Often unfurnished |
| Rental Income | Variable but higher | Stable and predictable |
| Management | High | Low |
| Flexibility | High | Low |
Legal and Regulatory Considerations
Short-term rentals are subject to local laws and regulations, which may include:
-
Licensing or permits
-
Zoning restrictions
-
Occupancy limits
-
Tourism or lodging taxes
Before listing a property, owners should always check local STR regulations.
Is a Short-Term Rental Right for You?
STRs are ideal if you:
-
Own property in a tourist or business-friendly location
-
Can manage frequent guest turnover
-
Want higher income potential
-
Are comfortable with platform fees and regulations
Final Thoughts
Short-term rentals (STRs) offer a flexible and profitable alternative to traditional renting. Whether you’re a property owner looking to increase income or a traveler seeking comfort and convenience, STRs continue to grow as a preferred accommodation option worldwide.
