Definition: What is a Short Term Rental (STR)?

Short-term rentals refer to furnished, self-contained apartments or houses rented for brief periods, usually less than 30 days. 

They are a great option for travelers on a budget who prefer a more personalized experience than traditional hotels offer. The maximum length of stay for short-term rentals in the US varies by state, jurisdiction, or city.

When booking a short-term rental, you can choose from various dwelling types, including yurts, trailers, studio apartments, and entire homes. These rentals usually come with various amenities like Wi-Fi, kitchens, and laundry facilities to make you feel at home during your stay.

The price of a short-term rental depends on factors such as the location, property size, amenities, and the rating given by previous guests. As a renter, you should also consider any rules or regulations imposed by the landlord or local authorities in the city or state where the rental is located.

Short-term leases are an excellent alternative to hotels, providing more options and flexibility when moving or exploring different cities across the US.

Short-Term Rentals in Everyday Conversation

It is important to understand that “short-term rental” is a noun representing a temporary lease agreement.

• “I booked a short-term rental for my vacation.”
• “She manages several short-term rentals in the city.”

Origin of the Concept of a Short Term Rental

Short-term rentals (STRs) first appeared about 15 years ago on platforms like Airbnb and VRBO. The original idea was to rent a single room in a private home, but STRs have expanded to include different accommodations.

One of the key benefits of STRs is that they don’t require a long-term commitment like a traditional 12-month lease. Instead, you can book a place for a few days, weeks, or months. This means you don’t usually need to undergo a credit check or meet a specific credit score requirement. Instead, hosts usually review your profile’s previous guest ratings and verify your identity.

Here are some key points related to short-term rentals and traditional leases:

• STRs: No credit check, shorter stays, flexible booking options
• 12-month lease: Credit check, long-term commitment, monthly rent payments

It’s clear, that STRs have transformed the way people book accommodations, offering a convenient alternative to hotels and traditional leases. They’ve made it possible for you to rent a place easily without worrying about credit checks and long-term commitments.

Synonyms for STRs

When talking about short-term rentals, several synonyms can be used to convey the same meaning. Some common synonyms include temporary, transient, fleeting, interim, provisional, and momentary. On the other hand, antonyms for short-term rentals would be words that indicate long-lasting or permanent situations, such as permanent, indefinite, enduring, or long-term.

Whether discussing a vacation rental or looking for a place to stay during a work assignment, using these synonyms and antonyms can help clarify the type of rental you’re referring to. It’s important to know the differences, especially when searching for accommodations or describing your rental options to others.

Example of Short Term Rentals

Understanding the different types of short-term rentals available can be helpful when searching for the right one to meet your needs. These rentals come in various forms, such as vacation rentals, temporary corporate housing, and subletting apartments.

Vacation Rentals

Vacation rentals are typically furnished properties available for short periods, often in popular vacation destinations. For example, you can find beachfront condos or cozy homes in Los Angeles in trendy neighborhoods. It is essential to check local rules and compliance requirements before booking, as some areas may have specific regulations for short-term rentals.

Temporary Corporate Housing

Temporary corporate housing caters to the needs of business travelers and provides amenities that support a productive work environment. They are often located in areas with a high concentration of corporate offices and may have more stringent legal requirements.

Subletting Apartments

Subletting apartments allows renters to temporarily vacate and sublet their space for a shorter lease term. When searching for sublet options on apartment lists, consider factors like the neighborhood, lifestyle, and pet allowance. Additionally, be aware of legal and regulatory requirements to ensure a smooth rental experience.

When exploring short-term rental options, it is vital to stay informed about local regulations and the overall impact on the community.

Related Terms

When it comes to short-term rentals, there are several terms and concepts you might want to be familiar with. Let’s discuss some of them briefly.

Less than 30 days: Short-term rentals are properties rented out for less than 30 days, typically found on platforms like Airbnb, VRBO, and others.

Vacation rentals: These are specifically designed for travelers looking for accommodations while on vacation. They could be homes, condos, or apartments their owners or property managers rent.

Zoning laws: Zoning laws regulate land use in a certain area; these may affect where short-term rentals are allowed and may require owners to obtain a permit to operate one.

Permit: Some cities require a permit to operate a short-term rental, while others may have restrictions or outright bans. San Francisco, for example, is known for its strict regulations on short-term rentals.

Taxes & Insurance: Property owners may need to pay property tax, occupancy tax, and income tax on their rental income. Additionally, insurance for short-term rentals may differ from long-term leases.

Pros and Cons of Short-Term Rentals: Pros include the potential for higher income and greater flexibility for property owners, while cons involve managing bookings, maintenance, and potential legal or regulatory issues.

Long-term leases and Month-to-Month leases: Differentiated by the duration of the lease, long-term leases typically span multiple years, whereas month-to-month leases allow for more flexibility.

As we’ve reminded you a few times, it’s important to understand the local laws and regulations, as well as any expenses involved. Stay informed and make an educated decision based on your unique situation.