What Are Mid-Term Rentals and How Do They Differ from Short-Term and Long-Term Rentals?

When people think about rental properties, they typically consider two options: short-term rentals (STRs) like Airbnbs or long-term rentals (LTRs) with year-long leases. However, there’s a middle ground that’s often overlooked but highly beneficial—mid-term rentals (MTRs).

What Are Mid-Term Rentals?

Mid-term rentals are furnished properties rented for a duration typically between 30 days, 6 months and even sometimes up to a year. These properties cater to guests who need temporary housing but don’t want to commit to a long-term lease or stay in a hotel. MTRs are particularly popular with traveling professionals, remote workers, families relocating, and insurance-displaced homeowners.

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The Game-Changer: Mid-Term Rentals

I discovered mid-term rentals by accident. When the pandemic hit in 2020, Airbnb allowed guests to cancel bookings with no penalties. Suddenly, my STR income dried up overnight. I pivoted to renting my property to traveling professionals and families in transition for 1–6 months at a time.

The first mid-term rental guest I secured was a family relocating from California who needed a 3-month lease. Shortly after, I had a construction crew from Dallas book a 7-month stay—they even mowed the lawn! Unlike STRs, these guests were low maintenance, required fewer turnovers, and paid just as well (or even better) than short-term guests. Best of all, I saw my cost of consumables (toilet paper, paper towels etc,) plummet! In mid term rentals, guests understand that these consumable are provided in a starter pack only and refills are up to the guest!

Key Differences Between STRs, LTRs, and MTRs

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Why Mid-Term Rentals Are the Best of Both Worlds

For me, MTRs have been the perfect balance between STRs and LTRs. They generate higher income than traditional long-term rentals without the constant management burden of short-term rentals. I love the consistent income, low touch hospitality model and that my homes are well kept unlike in the LTR model where you don't have control to regularly clean your investment property.

If you’re considering investing in real estate or transitioning from STRs or LTRs, mid-term rentals could be the best-kept secret for maximizing cash flow with less stress.

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