If you are new to the world of STR, curious or want to learn more about it, you’ve come to the right place. It can all seem confusing and complicated, that’s why in this post we’ll only talk about STR.

But what is an STR?

Let’s get started: STR, from English Short-Term Rental, means Short-Term Rental. It is a furnished house or apartment that is rented for a short period of time, usually less than 30 days.

These furnished accommodations, typically apartments, houses or unique spaces such as cabins or boats , are often offered and booked through online travel agency (OTA) platforms such as Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking, by private owners andproperty managers.

They may include whole houses, single rooms or additional living spaces, and some jurisdictions differentiate between single-family and multi-family dwellings. Most have amenities such as fully equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and some even allow pets.

This type of rental has become a turning point in the travel industry, offering a more personalized and often cost-effective alternative to hotels, as they can be 25-50% cheaper.

Benefits of short-term rentals

STRs offer unique experiences, the opportunity to live like a local, immerse yourself in the ambiance of a neighborhood and experience a destination beyond the tourist spots.

Many have amenities such as kitchens and laundry facilities, allowing for a more flexible and homelike feel compared to hotel rooms.

Depending on location, size and season, STRs can be a more economical option compared to hotels, especially for groups or longer stays. There are a variety of options to choose from: from cozy apartments to cottages in the countryside. STRs suit a variety of travel styles and group sizes.

Things to consider with short-term leases

  • Regulations: Local regulations at STRs may vary. It is essential to research restrictions in your chosen location before booking.

  • Amenities and house rules: The amenities and house rules of STRs may differ significantly. Check ads carefully to make sure the rental has the amenities you need and fits your preferences (e.g., ability to smoke or bring pets).

  • Location: While some enjoy the local neighborhood experience, STRs may be located further away from tourist attractions compared to hotels. Consider your priorities when choosing a location.

  • Communication and reviews: Effective communication with the host is essential. In addition, reading reviews from previous guests can provide valuable information about the rental experience.

Where to look for short-term rentals

Short-term rentals, along with flights, car rentals, cab rides to and from the airport, and attraction reservations, are listed on online travel agencies (OTAs). Want to know more? Check out our post“What is an OTA?”.

The most popular OTAs are Booking.com, Expedia and Airbnb, but there are also agencies like Despegar and Trip that are a good option if you want to book a stay in Latin America or Asia. That said, many cities also have local platforms that offer unique STR options.

Tips for finding the perfect STR

  • Define your needs and budget: Consider factors such as location, amenities, group size and price range.

  • Read ads carefully: Pay close attention to descriptions, photographs, house rules and cancellation policies.

  • Communicate with the host: Ask questions to clarify any doubts and assess their responsiveness.

  • Read reviews: Guests’ past experiences can be invaluable in making an informed decision.

That‘s all!

Thanksfor reading this far!

If you are looking for a memorable travel experience tailored to your preferences, you areready to log on to the online travel agency (OTA) of your choice and book a short-term rental!

 

Do you want to be a host yourself?

Learn everything there is to know about creating the best ads for your STRs and making them stand out from the rest in our article “How to make your ads stand out”.