What is a short-term rental? A complete beginner’s guide
Short-term rentals have become a staple of modern travel, offering the comforts of home with the convenience of a hotel. Not only do they provide a flexible option for travelers, but also a potential source of income for homeowners. But turning a mountain cabin or beach house into a rental comes with its own considerations and trade-offs. Here’s what potential owners should know. Understanding short-term rentals You’ve likely come across vacation home listings on Over the last decade, short-term rentals have grown immensely in popularity. Brands like Homeowners are drawn to short-term rentals for their income potential, flexibility, marketing automation, and tax benefits. Unlike long-term rentals, these properties can also serve as personal retreats. Seasonal demand may affect availability, and during peak periods, owners might need to adjust personal use. Additionally, keeping a property guest-ready requires attention to cleaning, coordination, and maintenance. How do short-term rentals work? Many people who Short-term rentals typically accommodate stays ranging from a few nights to several weeks, and in some cases, up to a month. Properties rented for longer than six months are usually considered long-term rentals, while anything shorter generally falls under the short-term category. Local regulations ultimately define what qualifies as a short-term rental in each area. When comparing a vacation home vs. short-term rental, the distinction is clear: a vacation home is primarily for personal enjoyment, while a short-term rental is managed as an income-generating investment. Understanding this difference helps potential owners make informed decisions about property use, financial planning, and regulatory compliance. What is considered a short-term rental in each state? Local restrictions are a critical factor for anyone considering What qualifies as a short-term rental by state? Owners should verify local regulations, zoning, taxes and licensing with their city or state government website for specific details about what qualifies as a short-term rental in their area before leasing their property. What are the different types of short-term rentals? Short-term rentals generally fall into three main categories: entire homes, accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and individual rooms. The type of property you list can influence how you operate your vacation rental business, including tax obligations and zoning requirements, so accurate categorization is essential. Entire homes Airbnb and Accessory dwellings Also called in-law suites, ADUs are often detached studios on the same property as the primary residence. They typically include an en-suite bathroom, comfortable furnishings, and sometimes a private entrance — perfect for guests looking for a cozy, independent space. Individual rooms Some jurisdictions allow homeowners to rent out a room in their primary residence as a short-term rental. The room can accommodate one or more guests and sometimes offer access to shared spaces like a kitchen or yard. Like ADUs, some private rooms can include separate entrances for added privacy. Short-term rental vs. long-term rental: what’s the difference? Both short-term and long-term rentals are investment properties that homeowners can use to generate rental income. The length of the lease between owner and tenant often determines which type of rental agreement both parties will abide by. A long-term rental is generally a lease agreement for tenants who live at a rental property for at least 90 days, although some landlords require a minimum of 180 days or a full calendar year. A short-term rental, however, is generally available to lease for less than 30 consecutive days. Compared to a long-term rental, What should I consider before investing in short-term rentals? Investing in a short-term rental can be a lucrative opportunity, but it comes with responsibilities that go beyond simply owning a second home. There are several factors to consider before investing in a short-term rental. To operate a short-term rental, owners need to: While short-term rentals can generate income, they also demand time, effort, and organization. If your priority is relaxation rather than running a business, Should I buy, co-own, or rent a vacation home? Short-term rental: Buying a whole second home: Co-owning a vacation home: Which option works best depends on… How does Pacaso compare with luxury short-term rentals? Instead of renting a vacation home night by night, Pacaso offers co‑ownership — a way to enjoy a luxury second home while also building equity. Why Pacaso stands out Compared with other vacation home options, Short-term rentals provide flexibility and variety, but they come with unpredictability: changing hosts, inconsistent quality, and no long-term return. Pacaso combines privacy, stability, and a true “home away from home” experience, letting you enjoy the perks of luxury second-home ownership without the full-time operational responsibilities. Co-owning a luxury second home has never been easier. Unlike vacation rentals,
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