Thinking about turning your home into a short-term rental? You're not alone. Whether it's a second property, your main home while you're traveling, or a guesthouse out back, more and more homeowners are exploring the idea of hosting guests and earning an income in the process. If you're just getting started, it's normal to have a lot of questions. So here are the 10 most common ones, answered simply.
1. Do I Need a License to Rent Out My Home on a Short-term Basis?
In many areas, yes. Some cities or counties require a short-term rental property license, permit, or registration. Others might need you to pass a safety inspection or limit how many nights per year you can rent. If you're part of an HOA, there may be restrictions there, too.
Your first step should always be to check local short-term rental laws. Look at your city or county website, or call the planning or zoning department. Don't assume it's allowed just because your neighbors are doing it. Rules vary widely, even within the same state.
2. How Much Money Can I Make?
Rental income depends on several factors, including your location, the size of your home, amenities, your rental period, and the time of year. A downtown condo might fetch high nightly rates, but a rural home near a national park could bring in steady bookings year-round.
To get a rough estimate, use tools like Houfy to research what similar homes in your area are earning. Keep in mind that you'll need to factor in expenses such as cleaning, property taxes, repairs, and property management fees.
3. Do I Have to List on Airbnb or VRBO?
No. While those platforms are well-known, they take a cut from both hosts and prospective tenants. That adds up quickly. If you want more control over your income and guest experience, consider listing your property on Houfy instead.
It's a commission-free platform that allows you to connect directly with guests and avoid unnecessary fees. You can also promote your listing on social media, tourism boards, local Facebook groups, or even your own website.
4. What's the Best Way to Price My Rental?
You want to be competitive without underselling yourself. Start by checking prices for homes in your area that are similar in size, location, and quality. Look at their calendar to see how often they're booked (that's often more telling than the rate alone).
Many hosts use dynamic pricing tools like PriceLabs, which helps you adjust your rates based on demand, holidays, and local events. You can set a base price and let the software do the rest.
5. How Should I Prepare the Home?
A successful rental feels clean, welcoming, and well-maintained. Start by decluttering and removing anything personal or valuable. Then deep clean the entire home, including baseboards, inside cabinets, and under beds. Make sure you have:
- Fresh linens and towels
- Extra blankets and pillows
- Basic toiletries (soap, shampoo, toilet paper)
- A stocked kitchen with cookware and utensils
If you want to go the extra mile, consider leaving a small welcome gift or a handwritten note. Guests remember the little things.
6. What Should I Include in My Listing?
Good photos matter. Use natural light, tidy up before you shoot, and capture every room. If possible, hire a professional photographer, since they know how to make a space look inviting. Your written description should:
- Highlight unique features (views, hot tub, walkability)
- Be honest about limitations (e.g., no AC, stairs, shared spaces)
- Explain what's nearby (beaches, parks, restaurants)
Also, include your house rules, cancellation policy, and any other important information that guests should know before booking.
7. How Do I Manage Bookings and Guest Communication?
If you're using Houfy or other platforms, most communication happens within the messaging system. Aim to respond quickly, within an hour if possible. Guests appreciate fast, clear answers. Before check-in, send a detailed message with:
- Entry instructions (keypad code, key location, etc.)
- Parking info
- Wi-Fi password
- House rules and local recommendations
During the stay, be available by phone or message. Most guests won't contact you unless there's a problem, but if they do, respond promptly and helpfully.
8. What About Cleaning Between Guests?
Cleanliness is one of the biggest factors in getting good reviews. You can do it yourself if you live nearby, but most hosts eventually hire a reliable cleaner. Every turnover should include:
- Laundered sheets and towels
- Sanitized bathrooms and kitchen
- Trash emptied and supplies restocked
- Surfaces wiped down and floors vacuumed/mopped
Create a cleaning checklist so nothing gets missed. If you're managing remotely, ask your cleaner to send photos after each clean.
9. How Do I Protect My Home and Avoid Bad Guests?
Most guests are respectful, but it helps to screen them. Look for verified profiles and past reviews if you're using platforms like Airbnb or VRBO. If you're booking directly on Houfy, you can require a signed rental agreement and a copy of their ID.
Use security deposits to cover damages. Consider adding a doorbell camera (facing outside only) or a noise monitor to deter parties. And don't forget insurance. Regular homeowners insurance often doesn't cover short-term rentals. Look for specialized short-term rental coverage or speak to your provider.
10. What Makes Guests Leave a 5-star Review?
Start with the basics: the home should be clean, the instructions clear, and the stay comfortable. But going a little above and beyond is what gets you glowing feedback. Ideas:
- Local recommendations in a printed guidebook
- Snacks or drinks upon arrival
- Extra chargers or a stocked coffee station
- Flexibility with check-in or check-out when possible
If a guest has a complaint, respond quickly and offer a reasonable fix. How you handle problems matters just as much as preventing them.
Ready to Start Hosting?
Short-term renting is part business, part hospitality. If you take the time to do it right, it can be a rewarding way to earn income and meet great people along the way. Want to keep more of what you earn? List your home on Houfy and connect directly with travelers—no commission fees, no middlemen, just simple hosting on your terms.
