
How to Price Your Mid Term Rental, A Complete Guide for Property Owners
Mid term rentals have emerged as a lucrative investment opportunity for property owners seeking steady income with reduced management complexity. These monthly rental properties, typically lasting between 30 days and 12 months, bridge the gap between traditional long-term leases and vacation rentals. However, pricing mid term housing correctly requires a strategic approach that considers multiple market factors and guest expectations.
Key Factors for Pricing Monthly Rentals
Market Analysis and Competition Research
Before setting rates for monthly housing, conducting thorough market research is essential. Factors considered include property size, location, amenities, condition, and the current demand for rental properties to ensure that rental prices are competitive, maximizing occupancy rates and rental income.
Start by analyzing comparable properties in the area. Take note of price variations based on factors like property condition, included utilities, or lease terms. This benchmarking process helps establish a baseline for competitive pricing in the mid term rental market.
Location-Specific Considerations
Rental prices can vary greatly depending on neighborhood desirability, proximity to amenities, and local economic factors, with properties closer to schools, parks, or public transportation often commanding higher rents. For mid term rentals, consider proximity to:
- Hospitals and medical facilities (for travel nurses)
- Corporate offices and business districts
- Universities and training centers
- Transportation hubs
Property Amenities and Furnishing Standards
Mid term rental guests expect fully furnished accommodations with all necessary amenities. Properties should include quality furniture, kitchen essentials, linens, and utilities. The level of furnishing and amenities directly impacts pricing potential, as guests pay a premium for move-in ready monthly housing.
Strategic Pricing Approaches
The Discount Strategy
A 20% discount for a month-long booking would make the same amount as accepting shorter bookings at standard rate, with the added bonus of a much lighter workload and higher guarantee of a booked calendar. This approach recognizes that longer stays reduce turnover costs and management time.
Competitive Positioning
In a city where average rental rates are around $1,000 for a one-bedroom long-term rental per month and short-term rentals ask for $1,500, a mid-term rental may command $1,200. This positioning allows mid term rentals to capture value between traditional rental markets while offering guests savings compared to nightly rates.
Value-Based Pricing
Consider the total value proposition offered to guests:
- Fully furnished accommodations
- Flexible lease terms
- Included utilities and services
- Professional cleaning
- Move-in ready convenience
Market Research Tools and Techniques
Analyzing Rental Comparables
Factors such as age, size, and the number of bedrooms and bathrooms should be considered when comparing properties. Create a detailed comparison matrix including:
- Monthly rental rates for similar properties
- Amenities and furnishing quality
- Lease term flexibility
- Included services and utilities
Testing Market Response
Test the market by initially setting a slightly higher price and being open to negotiations or ready to lower the cost if there is limited interest from potential tenants. This approach allows property owners to gauge demand and optimize pricing over time.
Seasonal and Market Timing Considerations
Rental demand can be seasonal, with certain times of the year being busier than others, such as summer when families move, students seek housing, and the weather is favorable. Mid term rental owners should adjust pricing based on:
- Local business cycles
- Medical facility schedules
- Corporate relocation patterns
- Educational calendar timing
Financial Analysis and Profit Optimization
Cost Structure Analysis
Mid term rental calculators account for unique pricing strategies and occupancy rates of rentals lasting one to six months by inputting variables like monthly rent, operating expenses, and local demand to project monthly revenue and assess profit margins.
Consider all operational costs including:
- Property maintenance and repairs
- Cleaning and turnover expenses
- Utilities and internet service
- Insurance and property taxes
- Marketing and platform fees
Revenue Maximization Strategies
Landlords should consider setting rental rates within a reasonable range compared to similar properties, taking into account factors such as location, amenities, and property condition, and in competitive rental markets, can offer incentives to attract tenants.
Implementation Best Practices
Dynamic Pricing Approach
Monitor market conditions regularly and adjust pricing based on:
- Seasonal demand fluctuations
- Local economic changes
- Competition pricing updates
- Guest feedback and booking patterns
Incentive Programs
Consider offering incentives for longer stays or repeat guests to maintain high occupancy rates. These might include:
- Progressive discounts for extended stays
- Reduced deposits for qualified guests
- Complimentary services or amenities
Conclusion
Pricing mid term rentals requires balancing profitability with market competitiveness. Pricing a mid-term rental can be challenging, as it requires finding the right balance between making a profit and attracting renters. Success depends on thorough market research, understanding guest needs, and maintaining flexibility to adjust pricing based on market feedback.
The mid term rental market presents significant opportunities for property owners willing to invest in quality furnishing and strategic pricing. By focusing on the unique value proposition of monthly housing and positioning properties appropriately within the broader rental market, owners can achieve strong returns while serving the growing demand for flexible, furnished accommodations.
Regular market analysis, competitive monitoring, and guest feedback incorporation ensure pricing remains optimized for both profitability and occupancy. As the mid term rental market continues to evolve, staying informed about trends and adapting pricing strategies accordingly will be key to long-term success in this growing sector.
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