Short-term rentals are an increasingly popular way to generate income, but success in this space requires more than just listing a property online. Whether you’re just starting or looking to diversify, there are three primary types of short-term rental properties that can provide lucrative opportunities: vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts (B&Bs), and corporate housing. Let’s break down how you can profit from each and set your business up for success.

1. Vacation Rentals: A Home Away from Home

Vacation rentals are a staple in the short-term rental world, offering travelers the comfort of home while on vacation. With platforms like Airbnb and Vrbo making it easier than ever to host guests, there’s a significant opportunity to make money by renting out your property.

Why Vacation Rentals Are Profitable:

Flexibility: Rent out your property when it’s available, whether it’s year-round or just during peak seasons.

High Demand in Tourist Areas: Locations near beaches, mountains, and popular tourist destinations typically see steady bookings.

Room to Increase Rates: You can adjust pricing based on demand, holidays, or local events, maximizing your revenue.


How to Make Money with Vacation Rentals:

Offer Unique Experiences: Create a themed experience, like a cozy cabin in the mountains or a chic urban apartment.

Optimize for Long-Term and Repeat Guests: Create a space that encourages repeat bookings with top-notch amenities and great customer service.

Price Strategically: Use dynamic pricing tools to adjust rates based on demand and competition, ensuring you’re charging the right price.

2. Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): A Personal Touch

Running a bed and breakfast is a great way to make money by offering guests more than just a place to sleep. Unlike typical vacation rentals, B&Bs often provide personalized services, such as homemade meals and curated experiences.

Why Bed and Breakfasts Are Profitable:

Niche Market: B&Bs cater to guests looking for a more intimate and personal stay compared to hotels or vacation rentals.

Unique Selling Point: Offering homemade meals, guided tours, or local experiences can set your B&B apart from competitors.

Higher Rate Per Night: Due to the additional services and atmosphere, B&Bs can often charge higher nightly rates compared to basic vacation rentals.

How to Make Money with Bed and Breakfasts:

Create a Unique Atmosphere: Develop a theme or ambiance that reflects the local culture or your personal style to attract guests looking for more than just a room.

Add Value with Homemade Meals: Providing breakfast (or even dinner) gives guests an extra reason to book with you and creates a memorable experience.

Market Your Local Area: Highlight local attractions, activities, and experiences that guests can enjoy, adding value to their stay.

3. Corporate Housing: A Reliable Income Stream

Corporate housing caters to professionals, typically those on business trips, long-term projects, or relocations. These guests often stay for several weeks or even months, making corporate housing a great option for consistent cash flow.

Why Corporate Housing Is Profitable:

Longer Stays: Corporate guests tend to stay longer than typical vacation renters, reducing turnover and ensuring a steadier income stream.

Higher Rental Rates: Because corporate housing is typically fully furnished and comes with additional amenities, you can charge higher rates for the longer stays.

Less Wear and Tear: Business travelers generally care for the property well and expect professional-grade accommodations.

How to Make Money with Corporate Housing:

Offer Premium Amenities: Ensure your property is fully furnished with everything a professional might need, such as high-speed internet, a desk, and laundry facilities.

Tailor to Business Travelers: Make sure your space is convenient for business guests with comfortable workspaces, proximity to corporate hubs, and a quiet environment.

Leverage Long-Term Bookings: Offer discounts for extended stays, encouraging corporate clients to book for longer periods.

Call to Action: Ready to Dive into Short-Term Rentals?

Whether you’re interested in vacation rentals, bed and breakfasts, or corporate housing, there’s a lot of potential to make money in the short-term rental industry. But success doesn’t happen overnight—it requires strategy, planning, and continuous learning. That’s where AP Hospitality Planning comes in!

Join our Skool group and access exclusive courses, in-depth blogs, and step-by-step guides to help you start, manage, and scale your short-term rental business. From pricing strategies to creating an unforgettable guest experience, we’ve got you covered.

Join AP Hospitality Planning Today and take the next step toward building a profitable short-term rental business!