How long is a mid-term rental?

Commonly 30 nights to under 12 months. Some jurisdictions define 28–31+ nights as non-transient; always confirm local rules and HOA bylaws.

What’s the difference between MTR, short-term, and long-term?

Short-term rentals (STRs) are typically nightly/weekly stays with hotel-like turnover. Long-term rentals (LTRs) are 12-month leases, usually unfurnished. MTRs sit between them—furnished, 1–11 months, lighter turnover, and often utilities included.

Are utilities and Wi-Fi usually included?

Yes, most MTRs bundle utilities, Wi-Fi, and basic streaming. Cap usage in the agreement to prevent overage surprises and outline cleaning cadence (e.g., monthly).

Do I still owe lodging or occupancy tax on 30+ night stays?

Many cities exempt 30+ night stays from transient occupancy tax, but statutes vary by state/city. Verify with local tax authorities—terms and thresholds differ.

Which platforms support mid-term rentals?

Semantic entities like Airbnb (Monthly Stays), Zillow Rentals, and corporate-housing networks (e.g., Blueground, Landing, Furnished Finder) facilitate MTR demand. Pair platform reach with direct channels for repeat guests.

What paperwork should I use for MTRs?

Use a written lease or license addendum tailored to 30+ nights, covering dates, bundled utilities, deposit, cleaning schedule, guest limit, house rules, and early-termination terms. Consider e-sign and ID verification.

How do I price a mid-term rental?

Start with your furnished STR rate baseline, then apply length-of-stay discounts (e.g., 20–40% off nightly), seasonal adjustments, and utility caps. Use dynamic pricing principles and monitor local MTR comps.

What insurance do I need?

Confirm with your carrier that your policy covers 30+ night furnished rentals. STR insurance doesn’t always extend to MTR terms; a landlord or rental dwelling policy with liability coverage is often recommended.

How often should I clean or inspect during a multi-month stay?

Set expectations in the lease: e.g., professional cleaning every 30–45 days, filter changes, and mid-stay inspections with notice. Provide extra linens and consumables at move-in.

Mid-term Rental

144 0 0 September 13, 2025

Definition: What Is a Mid-Term Rental?

A Mid-Term Rental (MTR) is a furnished lease that usually runs from one month to under a year. It’s designed for guests who need more than a nightly stay—think traveling nurses, relocating families, interns, graduate students, film crews, or remote workers—without the 12-month commitment of a traditional lease.

Unlike most short-term rentals, MTRs typically bundle utilities and Wi-Fi, reduce turnover frequency, and favor clear house rules over hotel-style services. Compared with a long-term rental, they remain furnished and flexible, with defined start/end dates and a simpler move-in experience.

Why Hosts & Guests Choose MTRs

Flexibility: Fixed dates (e.g., 3–6 months) match assignment lengths and academic terms.
Convenience: Furnished, turnkey, utilities included, fast onboarding.
Economics: Higher yield than LTRs with fewer turns than STRs; steadier occupancy in shoulder seasons.

Typical Features of a Mid-Term Rental

Furnishings: Full bed setup, living seating, work-ready desk/chair, blackout shades, stocked kitchen basics.
Inclusions: Utilities (electric, gas where applicable), high-speed Wi-Fi, basic streaming; caps disclosed in the agreement.
Operations: Turnover every few months; scheduled mid-stay cleaning/maintenance; clear check-in procedures.
Policies: Guest limits, pet rules, parking, mailbox/parcel handling, and noise/quiet-hours compliance.

Where MTRs Fit in Your Strategy

Seasonality smoothing: Backfill off-peak months at lakes and resort towns when nightly demand dips. See Seasonality.
Channel mix: Balance demand from monthly segments (healthcare, corporate, education) with STR peak weeks. See Booking Window.
Pricing & promos: Use Dynamic Pricing to set base floors, then offer length-of-stay discounts (30, 60, 90+ nights).

Compliance & Practical Considerations

Local rules: Many cities reclassify 30+ nights as “non-transient.” Verify licensing, HOA bylaws, and occupancy standards.
Taxes: Transient occupancy taxes may not apply to 30+ nights, but sales/VAT or lodging rules can vary—confirm thresholds and filings.
Agreement type: Lease or occupancy license reflecting furnished, utility caps, cleaning cadence, pet deposits, and early-termination terms.
Screening: ID verification, employment or assignment letters (e.g., hospital contracts), and deposits to reduce risk.
Insurance: Ensure your policy covers extended stays; STR endorsements sometimes exclude MTR exposures.

Examples

Corporate housing: A consultant rents a furnished condo for 5 months, utilities included, with monthly cleanings and a capped electricity allowance.
Relocation: A family lands a 90-day lakehouse lease while house-hunting; the host provides garage storage and flexible move-in timing.
Clinical assignment: A travel nurse books 13 weeks; the lease includes a quiet-hours clause and desk setup near a window with strong Wi-Fi.

Related Terms

Frequently Asked Questions

What length should I set for a “mid-term” minimum?

Many hosts set a 30- or 31-night minimum to align with local non-transient definitions and tax thresholds. Add 60/90-night discounts to attract longer stays.

Should I use a lease, a license, or my STR terms?

Use a written lease or license tailored to MTRs. STR house rules are helpful, but a 30+ night agreement should cover utilities, inspections, deposit, and early termination.

How do I handle deposits and cleaning?

Require a refundable security deposit (or card hold) and define mid-stay cleanings (e.g., every 30–45 days) in the agreement. Clarify pet deposits and move-out expectations.

What gear matters most for MTR guests?

Reliable Wi-Fi, ergonomic desk/chair, blackout shades, quality mattress, full kitchen kit, washer/dryer, and climate control. For lake homes, add secure gear storage and outdoor maintenance schedules.

Can I run both STR and MTR on the same property?

Yes—many operators STR peak weeks and MTR shoulder/off-season. Keep calendars clean, price by season/LOS, and confirm your permit/HOA allows mixed use.

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