A short-term rental (STR) is a furnished property rented for a brief period, typically fewer than 30 consecutive days. The term encompasses vacation rentals, corporate housing, and other temporary accommodation. Short-term rentals are subject to specific regulations that vary by city and country, including licensing requirements, tax obligations, and occupancy limits. The STR industry has experienced significant growth driven by platforms like Airbnb, professional property management companies, and changing traveler preferences.
Why this matters for property managers
The 30-day threshold is not just a definition, it is the line that determines which licensing regime, tax rate, and insurance policy applies to a stay. Cross it in one direction and a property may fall under hotel-style regulation and lodging taxes; cross it in the other and it may be treated as a residential tenancy with tenant protections. Operators who track how their local market draws this line protect their occupancy strategy from fines and unexpected reclassification.
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