What is an STR?

If you are new to the STR Landscape, curious, or you want to learn more about the subject, you've come to the right place. It all may look confusing and complicated, so in this post we're only going to talk about STRs. But, what is an STR?

Let's dive in: STR stands for Short-Term Rental, a furnished home or apartment that is rented for a short period of time, usually less than 30 days.

These furnished accommodations, typically apartments, houses, or unique spaces like cabins or boats, are typically listed and booked through Online Travel Agency (OTA) platforms (of which we're going to talk about in next week's post) like Airbnb, Vrbo, or Booking, provided by private owners and property managers.

They can include entire homes, individual rooms, or additional living spaces, and some jurisdictions differentiate between single-family and multi-family homes. Most of them feature amenities such as fully-equipped kitchens, laundry facilities, and some even welcome pets.

This type of rentals have become a game-changer in the travel industry, offering a more personalized and often cost-effective alternative to hotels, as they can be 25 to 50% cheaper.

Benefits of Short-Term Rentals

STRs offer unique experiences, a chance to live like a local, immersing yourself in the vibe of a neighbourhood and experiencing a destination beyond tourist hotspots.

Many come with amenities like kitchens and laundry facilities, allowing for a more flexible and homey feel compared to hotel rooms.

Depending on the location, size, and season, STRs can be a more budget-friendly option compared to hotels, especially for groups or longer stays. There are a variety of options to choose from: cosy apartments, countryside huts, and everything in between. STRs cater to diverse travel styles and group sizes.

Things to Consider with Short-Term Rentals

• Regulations: Local regulations on STRs can vary. It's essential to research any restrictions in your chosen location before booking.
• Amenities and House Rules: STR amenities and house rules can differ significantly. Carefully review listings to ensure the rental has the amenities you need and aligns with your preferences (e.g., pet-friendly, smoking policy).
• Location: While some enjoy the local neighbourhood experience, STRs might be located further from tourist attractions compared to hotels. Consider your priorities when choosing a location.
• Communication and Reviews: Effective communication with the host is crucial. Reading reviews from previous guests can offer valuable insights into the rental experience.

Where to look for Short-Term Rentals

Short-Term Rentals, along side flights, car rentals, airport taxis, and attraction reservations, are all listed on Online Travel Agencies (OTAs). Do you want to know more? Check our post "What is an OTA?".

The most known OTAs are Booking, Expedia, and Airbnb, but there are also agencies such as Despegar and Trip that are a good option if you want to book a place in Latin America or Asia. That being said, many cities also have local platforms that offer unique STR options.

Tips for Finding the Perfect Short-Term Rental

• Define your needs and budget: Consider factors like location, amenities, group size, and price range.
• Read listings carefully: Pay close attention to descriptions, photos, house rules, and cancellation policies.
• Communicate with the host: Ask questions to clarify any doubts and gauge their responsiveness.
• Read reviews: Past guest experiences can be invaluable in making an informed decision.

That's it!

Thank you for reading this far!

If you are looking for a memorable travel experience tailored to your preferences, you are ready to go to the Online Travel Agency of your liking and book a Short-Term Rental!

Host a Short-Term Rental

Do you want to be a host yourself?

Learn everything there is to know to have the best STR listings and make them pop and stand out from the rest, in our article "Checklist for New Listings".