If you have a furnished property you’re not living in, whether it’s an apartment, condo, or house, you might be sitting on a goldmine. Short-term rentals are in high demand, especially among travelers, professionals on temporary work assignments, digital nomads, and relocating families.
But how do you actually find these guests without wasting money or getting stuck in a long-term commitment?
Here are some of the best (and budget-friendly) ways to get your place booked plus one platform you might want to avoid.
Contents
Best Platforms to List Your Furnished Property
1. Airbnb
Airbnb is one of the most trusted platforms for short-term rentals. With its wide reach, built-in payment processing, and strong host protections, it’s a go-to for many property owners. You can set your availability, screen guests, and even require a security deposit. Plus, Airbnb handles the marketing for you.
2. Facebook Marketplace & Facebook Groups
Don’t underestimate the power of Facebook! Local housing and rental groups are full of people looking for short-term stays. Marketplace listings are free and get a lot of traffic. Just be sure to include clear photos and specify that the space is fully furnished and available short-term.
3. Craigslist
Yes, Craigslist is still relevant, especially for local or budget-conscious renters. You can list your space under the “housing” section and even cross-post to other cities if you’re near a metro area or travel hub. Make your listing stand out with good photos, an honest description, and a clear availability calendar.
Platform to Think Twice About: Furnished Finder
Furnished Finder markets itself to travel nurses and other professionals, but here’s the catch: it’s expensive and hard to cancel. Unlike Airbnb, which charges per booking, Furnished Finder often requires an upfront annual fee, whether you land a renter or not.
Many hosts report difficulty getting refunds or even contacting customer service. If you’re just testing the waters or don’t want to commit to one platform, this may not be the best option for you.
Pro Tips to Get Booked Faster
- Take great photos: A well-lit, tidy space with simple staging works wonders.
- Write a clear, honest listing: Be upfront about things like parking, laundry access, and pet policies.
- Offer flexible terms: The more open you are to varying stay lengths, the more potential renters you’ll attract.
- Highlight amenities: Fast Wi-Fi, a stocked kitchen, and a dedicated workspace are big selling points for remote workers.
Final Thoughts
Listing your furnished property doesn’t have to cost a fortune—or tie you into a contract you can’t get out of. With platforms like Airbnb, Facebook, and Craigslist, you can stay in control, reach a wide audience, and start earning income quickly.
Skip the overpriced platforms with rigid policies. You’ve got better (and smarter) options!
