Estimated reading time: 5 minutes
Short/mid-term rentals are a big thing in the USA. The market is projected to grow to $81.63 billion by 2033. Embracing mid-term rentals as a landlord is a good idea. Mid-terms stretch between one and six months, perfect for folks who need more than a hotel stay but less than a year-long commitment. Think digital nomads settling in for a work project, students in between semesters, or professionals on temporary assignments. It’s a niche that’s growing fast, and for landlords, the benefits are too good to ignore.
Mid-term rentals attract responsible tenants, offer higher profitability than traditional long-term leases, and eliminate the revolving door chaos of short-term stays. Plus, with fully furnished setups often being the norm, you can justify a premium price tag.
However, the competition is becoming thick, so you need a place that stands out. Your mid-term rental needs to be somewhat unique.
Unique Housing Trends That Complement Mid-Term Rentals
- Prefab cabins and modular log homes
- Create a space that resonates with mid-term demographics
- Making the most of sustainable design
- Offering smart home technology that is pre-integrated
Prefab cabins and modular log homes
Prefab cabins and modular log designs are a versatile home option that offers a rustic exterior with cutting-edge features. Perfect for mid-term rentals or longer leases, these structures are a fantastic way to set yourself apart in a competitive market.
With modular designs, you can work with builders to create a floor plan that meets the specs of your land and the needs of your ideal tenants. These homes are essentially tailor-made, and the process of building them can save you serious time. Traditional builds can take months—sometimes years—to complete, delaying your rental income and adding stress to the process. Modular homes are constructed off-site and delivered to your property within weeks, ready to roll.
To save even more time, these homes come state-approved and inspected, meaning much of the red tape associated with new builds is already handled!
Create a space that resonates with mid-term demographics
Mid-term rentals see a lot of remote workers and digital nomads who thrive on flexibility and functionality, so your rental should feel like a home and a productive workspace. Consider these inclusions in your property design/setup:
- Include a small but stylish desk, a comfortable office chair, and ample lighting. Bonus points for providing power outlets and USB ports nearby.
- High-speed internet is non-negotiable. Consider adding a Wi-Fi extender to ensure strong coverage throughout the space.
- After a long day of remote work, they’ll appreciate spots like a reading nook or a hammock on the balcony.
These same people may be in a major life transition (which is also a standalone mid-term demographic), so they often seek comfort and simplicity in their temporary homes. Here are some easy ways to integrate this into the makeup of your rental:
- Stick to a neutral color palette with pops of warmth (think throw pillows, rugs, or artwork). This creates a welcoming space that appeals to a wide range of tastes.
- Modular sofas, fold-out beds, and expandable dining tables can adapt to changing needs, perfect for tenants who may have visitors or varying living arrangements.
- Think about wardrobes, under-bed storage, and even wall-mounted shelves to help tenants keep their lives organized during their stay.
Making the most of sustainable design
Mid-term rentals should be appealing and forward-thinking, with features that cater to environmentally aware tenants while offering cost-saving benefits to you, the landlord.
Sustainability is an expectation for many renters. Here are a few ways to incorporate eco-conscious elements into your mid-term rental:
- Flooring made from bamboo or cork offers durability and a modern aesthetic while being environmentally friendly. Pair it with recycled wood furniture or upcycled decor for a cohesive look.
- Using low VOC (volatile organic compound) paints minimizes environmental impact and ensures better indoor air quality, which tenants will appreciate.
- Swap out traditional lighting for LED bulbs, which last longer and use less energy. Installing energy-efficient appliances and water-saving fixtures, like low-flow showerheads and faucets, reduces utility costs for tenants and landlords.
- If feasible, solar panels are an excellent way to power your rental sustainably. Even a partial solar setup can offset energy costs, particularly in areas with abundant sunlight.
- Use native plants and xeriscaping, which require minimal water and maintenance. Compost bins or small herb gardens can also be a nice, eco-conscious touch.
Offering smart home technology that is pre-integrated
Smart homes are a standout inclusion in modern rentals, offering tenants convenience, comfort, and security while optimizing energy use. Here’s how to incorporate smart tech into your property:
- Devices like Nest or Ecobee let tenants control the temperature remotely, reducing energy waste and enhancing comfort.
- Smart bulbs and switches allow tenants to customize lighting schedules, dim settings, and even adjust colors—all from a smartphone – energy-efficient and user-friendly.
- Video doorbells, smart locks, and cameras offer tenants peace of mind and an added layer of security for your property.
- Equipping the rental with devices like Amazon Echo or Google Nest makes it easy for tenants to control smart features with voice commands.
- Motorized blinds or shades can be programmed to open and close based on the time of day, improving insulation and reducing heating or cooling costs.
For tenants, smart tech creates a rental that’s modern, efficient, and aligned with their values, and for landlords, these investments can justify higher rental rates, attract more reliable renters, and lower maintenance costs in the long run. Your mid-term rental needs to be a desirable, future-ready home to ensure it catches the attention of quality tenants and proves to be a successful investment for years to come.
A clearer and more straightforward rental experience
Want to find the perfect mid-term tenants for your rental? At June Homes, we take care of our owners with our 24/7 support team, which helps you find the right tenants for your property while offering a level of service unmatched in the residential rental industry.
