While weighing the pros and cons of short-term vs long-term rentals I would like to hear some real-world experiences. On paper, short-term looks more profitable, but I know it comes with way more hands-on work and potential vacancy gaps.
For those who’ve tried both, what’s been your experience? Do the higher returns with short-term actually hold up after all the fees, cleaning, and time involved? Or is long-term just a safer bet overall?
Trying to figure out what makes more sense for my first few properties. Any insight would be appreciated.
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I switched from STRs to long-term rentals during the pandemic and haven’t looked back. Sure, I make less per month, but I sleep better.
My strategy: use short-term rentals to build capital, then transition to long-term rentals in cash-flow markets. Short-term helped me scale early on, but long-term is my play for wealth building and exit strategy.
Both work you just have to know your phase and purpose.
Short-term rentals can absolutely out-earn long-term, but you’ve got to treat it like a hospitality business, not just a passive investment.
