Long-term rentals (typically 1–6 months or more) are having a moment (opens in new tab). As remote work, extended travel, and project-based relocations become more common, more people are choosing flexible, furnished stays over traditional leases or short-term bookings.
There are now many platforms beyond Airbnb that cater specifically to this market. Some focus on traveling professionals, others on fully managed, move-in-ready apartments, and many offer pricing and features better suited to multi-month stays.
This guide is organized with separate advice for guests and for landlords. We’ll compare key platforms – such as Furnished Finder, Craigslist, Blueground, Landing, and newer entrants like Apartment Collection by Hilton, Flatio, and Kopa – including their pros, cons, pricing models, and features.
We also provide:
how-to guidance for using each platform effectively;
options beyond the major platforms (like Facebook groups or local agencies);
important legal and tax considerations for U.S. long-term rentals; and
practical tips for success (tenant screening, leases, payment, maintenance, and more).
Let’s dive in.
For guests: finding long‑term stay alternatives to Airbnb
If you’re a guest seeking a long-term furnished stay, you have several alternatives to Airbnb. Many of these platforms focus on 30+ day rentals and cater to traveling workers, digital nomads, relocating families, and others needing temporary housing.
Below we break down the key platforms, their advantages and drawbacks for renters, and tips on how to use them effectively. We also mention other channels like Facebook housing groups and extended-stay hotels that can help you find a long-term rental.
Furnished Finder (monthly furnished rentals)
Furnished Finder is the leading U.S. site dedicated to rentals beyond 30 days. It was originally created for traveling nurses, but now serves all kinds of travelers seeking furnished housing – including remote workers, corporate relocators, insurance-placement families, and traveling professionals of every stripe.
In the past 12 months, over 6 million travelers searched for housing on Furnished Finder (opens in new tab), and the platform now hosts more than 300,000 listings from over 240,000 landlords – up from roughly 20,000 listings before the pandemic.
It functions like a hybrid of Airbnb and Craigslist: you browse listings online and read reviews, but you communicate and pay the landlord directly (the platform itself does not handle bookings or payments).
Pros (for guests):
No booking fees & lower cost: Furnished Finder does not take a cut of rent, so monthly rates are often lower than Airbnb’s (no hefty service fees). This can save you money on longer stays. In many areas, 30+ day stays are also exempt from hotel taxes, further reducing cost.
Direct communication: You can speak with the property owner directly, ask questions, and even visit the property in person before booking (a major advantage for peace of mind). There’s transparency: the site provides the host’s full name, so you can verify ownership or check records if desired.
Negotiation flexibility: Because you deal off-platform, guests can negotiate the monthly rent or terms with the landlord before signing an agreement. This can lead to customized arrangements or discounts for longer stays.
Intended for longer stays: Listings are specifically for furnished homes on 30+ day terms, so hosts expect longer occupancy. With the average stay about 100 days (opens in new tab), hosts are set up for mid-term life – many listings target traveling professionals who stay 2–6 months. You can find both entire apartments and single rooms to rent, depending on your budget.
Built-in tenant screening: KeyCheck by Furnished Finder partners with TransUnion SmartMove to offer tenant screening (credit, criminal, and eviction reports) for $44.99 (opens in new tab) without affecting your credit score – useful if a landlord asks you to verify your background before confirming a booking.
How to use it effectively:
Start by searching your destination on Furnished Finder’s map. Filter results by date, budget, and whether you want an entire place or a room. When you find promising listings, submit a booking request to the landlord, indicating the group size, dates, and other details. Best practice is to send to multiple properties that are a possible fit, and then if you don’t hear back within 24 hours on that initial set, expand your search.
Ask to tour the place (or do a video tour) if possible before committing. Always insist on a written rental agreement outlining rent, deposit, utilities, and house rules. Because payment is handled off-platform, consider using secure methods (e.g. a check upon move-in or a trusted electronic transfer).
Furnished Finder’s lack of fees often results in great savings, but it also means you and the landlord must handle everything yourselves. As a guest, do your due diligence: verify that the person truly owns or manages the property (you can look up county property records or search the address).
When done right, Furnished Finder can be a budget-friendly, straightforward way to secure a mid-term rental, especially in cities with lots of demand for professional housing.
Craigslist (classifieds for rentals)
Craigslist is a long-standing classifieds website where many landlords advertise rentals (including sublets and month-to-month arrangements). Virtually every U.S. city has a Craigslist housing section, making it a broad marketplace for finding long-term stays outside of traditional platforms.
Pros (for guests):
Wide selection & local deals: Craigslist often has the most listings for local rentals, from spare rooms to whole apartments. You might find unique opportunities here, such as a last-minute sublet, a budget granny-flat, or areas not covered by Airbnb. Because you deal directly with owners, you can sometimes find lower rents (no middleman fees) or negotiate for a better rate on a long stay.
No platform fees: There are no service fees for using Craigslist. If you find a rental, you’ll pay rent directly to the landlord without any percentage going to a website. This can make total costs lower, similar to Furnished Finder’s advantage.
Testing the market: If you’re looking in a new city or for an uncommon arrangement, Craigslist can show what’s available. For example, some small landlords or roommates only advertise on Craigslist, so it’s an important place to look for availability that might not appear on mainstream rental sites.
Cons (for guests):
Potential for scams: Caution is crucial. Craigslist’s housing section may have fake listings. Common scams include listings that are “too good to be true” (e.g. an amazing apartment at a suspiciously low rent) or fraudsters posing as landlords to collect deposits from multiple people. There is no verification of postings, so you must use vigilance (see tips below).
No vetting or reviews: Unlike Airbnb, there are no reviews of landlords or properties, and Craigslist does not vet either party. You’ll have to rely on your own screening. Inspect the place, meet the landlord, and trust your gut.
Spam and time wasters: As a renter, you might encounter landlords who don’t respond or offers that turn out to be already taken. Conversely, when you inquire, some owners might be flooded with responses and you’ll need to stand out. Expect that you may need to send many inquiries and get only a few replies.
How to use it effectively:
Always view the property in person (or have a trusted friend do so) before paying any money. Never wire funds or send money before you’ve met the landlord and signed an agreement. Scammers often ask for a “security deposit” upfront and then disappear. Be skeptical of deals that look much cheaper than market rate or landlords who only communicate via text/email and refuse to meet.
When contacting listings, introduce yourself and your need (e.g. “professional relocating for 3 months”) to show you’re serious. This can help legit landlords pick you out from the crowd. Once you find a place, get a proper lease or sublease agreement in writing.
Verify that the person you deal with is the actual owner or property manager: you can ask to see some proof (such as their name on the lease or property deed, or ID that matches the name of the landlord). Also consider Googling the listing. If the same photos/ad text appear in another city or under a different name, it’s likely a scam.
Despite the risks, many people do successfully find housing on Craigslist. Just remember the adage: if it looks too good to be true, it probably is.
Blueground (professionally-managed apartments)
Blueground is a rental company that offers fully furnished apartments for stays of a month, a year, or longer. Unlike peer-to-peer platforms, Blueground itself leases and manages the apartments, so you’ll be renting from Blueground as the landlord, not from an individual host.
Blueground has grown in recent years. The company now operates more than 40,000 apartments in 50+ cities worldwide (opens in new tab) (up from roughly 18 cities in 2022), and in 2024 acquired on-demand furnished rental company Travelers Haven (opens in new tab) to deepen its footprint in healthcare and corporate housing. Coverage spans major U.S. metros like NYC, LA, DC, Boston, and Austin, plus European and Middle Eastern capitals.
Blueground apartments come with modern furnishings, so you can “show up with a suitcase” and live comfortably. Essentially, Blueground is like a hybrid of a corporate housing provider and Airbnb, offering the consistency of a hotel/apartment chain with the space and feel of a real apartment.
Pros (for guests):
High-quality & consistent experience: Blueground apartments are professionally designed and furnished. You can expect a clean, well-maintained, modern space with a similar style across units. Amenities often include fresh furniture, fully stocked kitchenware, luxury linens, a smart TV with streaming/cable and fast Wi-Fi. For someone who values a turnkey, hotel-like experience, this is a big plus – no worrying about whether the Airbnb will have decent pots and pans or working internet.
Flexible lease terms: The minimum stay is 30 days, but beyond that Blueground often lets you extend your lease easily. This flexibility is great if you’re unsure how long you’ll need to be in one city. Some users note you can seamlessly extend or shorten stays with minimal hassle compared to a traditional lease.
All-inclusive pricing (utilities & support): Blueground rent typically includes utilities, Wi-Fi, and furniture, and they handle maintenance. Although the pricing is higher (see cons), it’s convenient to have one bill covering everything. If something breaks or you need help, Blueground has customer support and local teams to assist, rather than you negotiating with an individual landlord.
Cons (for guests):
Expensive “premium” pricing: Blueground is significantly more costly than a typical long-term rental. You are paying for convenience and flexibility. The listed monthly prices might sometimes seem reasonable, but note that the initial prices shown are often the base rate for the longest stays, not the actual price for your shorter stay. Blueground’s final pricing can be 20–30% higher once you factor in utilities, cleaning fees, and insurance that they add on.
Limited availability & locations: Blueground focuses on major metropolitan areas and generally in upscale, central neighborhoods. If you’re looking to stay in a small city or rural area, Blueground won’t have options there. Even within a city, their inventory might be limited to certain high-end districts. Also, because they insist on high-quality units, there may be fewer choices especially during busy times.
Less “local” feel: While Blueground apartments are beautiful, some travelers note they can feel a bit sterile or generic (like a stylish hotel suite). You won’t be staying in a privately owned home with personal character; it’s more of a corporate setting. For those who enjoy the personal touch or unique charm of Airbnbs, this could be a downside.
How to use it effectively:
Blueground’s process is more like renting from a rental agency. You’ll browse their site for available apartments in your city and dates. When booking, you might see a few options for lease length (e.g. 1–2 months vs 3+ months at a discounted rate).
You’ll then apply. This can involve an application fee or at least providing identification and proof of income, similar to a normal rental application. Once approved (often within a day or two), you pay the first month’s rent and possibly a membership or admin fee.
Blueground will coordinate your move-in; typically someone meets you to hand over keys and show you around. During your stay, use the Blueground app or customer service for any maintenance requests. If you love the service and plan to move around, note that Blueground is in multiple cities globally, so you could potentially hop from one Blueground apartment to another in a new city with relative ease.
In summary, Blueground is best for guests who prioritize convenience, quality, and flexibility over tight budgets.
Landing (membership-based flexible apartments)
Landing (formerly “Hello Landing”) is another service offering furnished apartments for long-ish stays, but it operates on a membership model.
With a Landing membership, you get access to their network of apartments in 250+ U.S. cities (opens in new tab). The idea is you can move between Landing apartments in different cities easily, with flexible lease terms. Landing has pulled back from its earlier 375-city footprint and now focuses on major metros with dependable inventory.
Landing is popular with digital nomads and remote workers who might spend a few months in one city then relocate, as well as folks on extended work assignments. The typical stay on Landing is 3–6 months, a bit longer than Airbnb averages, meaning it targets more stable mid-term living.
Pros (for guests):
Nationwide network with one lease, many cities: With a Landing membership, once you’re approved you can jump between cities or apartments without signing a new lease each time. You could spend 3 months in Austin, then 2 months in Miami, then 4 months in Seattle, all under the Landing program. This is ideal for those who want to experience living in different places without the hassle of starting from scratch each time.
Fully furnished & remote-work ready: Landing apartments come fully furnished and generally include a well-stocked kitchen, TV, Wi-Fi, and even a dedicated workspace (desk and chair) for remote work. Many buildings are modern with amenities like gyms or pools. Essentially, Landing tries to guarantee a certain quality standard.
Flexible terms and simplified move-in: The minimum stay is 30 days, but beyond that you can extend month-to-month. There’s no long-term lease locking you in for a year. Check-in and check-out are managed through the Landing app, and a local rep will meet you at move-in to hand off keys. Landing’s newer “12-Month Flex” program offers up to 30% off for members who commit to a longer stay.
Cons (for guests):
Membership fee and upfront costs: The Standard plan still costs $199/year on top of rent. Landing also offers a “Standby” tier at a flat $1,795/month (opens in new tab) with no membership fee – useful if you’re flexible on location and willing to take whatever apartment is open on short notice, but the trade-off is that you don’t pick your exact unit. If you only need one 2-month stay, the Standard annual fee can make it less cost-effective.
High rent prices: Landing’s convenience comes at a price. Monthly rents tend to be on the high side (often comparable to Blueground). Generally, expect Landing apartments to be above local market rent because they’re furnished and flexible. If you compare to signing a traditional 12-month lease and renting furniture, Landing will likely be more expensive. It’s the trade-off for not having long commitments.
Network limitations and rules: While 250+ cities sounds like a lot, your particular destination might not have many Landing options. They concentrate on larger cities and desirable neighborhoods. If you’re going to a smaller town, you might find zero Landings there. To get the most value, you’d use Landing multiple times in a year (since you paid the membership). Additionally, read the membership terms – break the lease early and there are fees, and you must give at least a 30-day notice to end membership.
How to use it effectively:
Landing is great if you plan to city-hop or aren’t sure how long you’ll stay. To make the membership fee worth it, try to use Landing for multiple stays or for a longer continuous stay. Browse their site and check that the cities you want have availability in your price range before buying the membership. Once a member, booking an apartment is done via their app: you select dates and submit. But remember, it’s not guaranteed until confirmed.
When you move in, treat it professionally as you would any rental. Do a quick inspection and report any issues immediately via the app so you aren’t blamed later.
Also, if you know you’ll be in one place 6+ months, see if the 12-Month Flex discount (opens in new tab) applies (commitments of 6+ months can save up to 30%).
Landing is best for guests who want flexibility across multiple cities and are willing to pay a bit more for a plug-and-play home.
Other alternatives (corporate housing, Facebook, etc.)
In addition to the platforms above, here are other avenues worth a look when searching for a long-term stay in the U.S.:
Corporate housing networks (e.g., CHBO): Corporate Housing By Owner specializes in furnished monthly rentals for business travelers in the U.S. and Canada, often upscale condos or homes in major business hubs. Rents are typically higher, but tenants deal with experienced landlords and well-maintained properties. Landlords often prefer relocated employees or traveling professionals and may require proof of employment or background checks. While CHBO is a paid listing platform for owners, renters usually don’t pay to use it. It’s best for 1–6 month stays where quality, management, and flexibility matter more than price.
Apartment Collection by Hilton: Launched in early 2026, Hilton’s new extended-stay brand (opens in new tab) offers furnished studio to four-bedroom apartments starting with properties in New York City, Washington D.C., and Atlanta, with more metros on the roadmap. It pairs hotel-grade service with apartment-style space, including Hilton Honors points – attractive if you already live in the Hilton ecosystem.
Flatio: A digital-nomad-friendly monthly rental platform focused on 1–12 month stays (opens in new tab). Flatio leans heavily international (strong in Europe) and caters to remote workers and exchange students, with a built-in contract and secure payments. A good option if your destination is overseas or you want platform-mediated protections.
Kopa: Formerly PadPiper, Kopa is a marketplace for 1–12 month furnished rentals and compatible housemates (opens in new tab). It skews toward shared housing and is popular with relocating professionals and interns looking for a room rather than a whole apartment.
Facebook Housing Groups & Marketplace: Many cities have Facebook Groups for housing, sublets, and roommates where you can find lease takeovers, short-term rentals, or room shares (often at below-market rates). You can browse posts, make a “housing wanted” post, or check Facebook Marketplace (though rules for agents have tightened). As with Craigslist, watch for scams: verify listings, see the place in person, and check the poster’s profile for authenticity. Local Facebook or Nextdoor groups can also surface leads through community word-of-mouth.
Traditional rental platforms (Zillow, Apartments.com, etc.): These sites focus on 12-month leases, but you may find furnished month-to-month or short-term options (especially in the offseason). Use keywords like “furnished” or “short term” to filter results. In some cities, local agents can help locate lease breaks or sublets, though broker fees may apply.
Extended-stay hotels: Brands like Extended Stay America, Residence Inn, and Staybridge Suites offer suites with kitchenettes at weekly or monthly rates. They’re turnkey – furnished, with utilities, housekeeping, and no lease – making them ideal for short, flexible stays. While smaller and sometimes costly, monthly discounts and savings on utilities or deposits can make them competitive. Many use extended stays as a bridge while securing longer-term housing.
For landlords/owners: offering long‑term rentals
If you’re a property owner or landlord looking to rent out a home for longer stays (beyond the typical Airbnb weekend crowd), there are multiple platforms and strategies to consider.
Renting mid-term can provide more stable income and less turnover than nightly rentals, but it also involves different responsibilities (like leases and tenant laws).
In this section, we compare platforms and channels from the owner’s perspective, including how each works, the costs, and tips to use them effectively. We’ll also cover legal/tax implications and best practices (screening tenants, setting up leases, etc.) to ensure your long-term rental venture is successful and compliant.
Furnished Finder (for landlords)
Furnished Finder is a go-to platform for landlords targeting traveling professionals (nurses, corporate interns, remote workers, etc.) who need 1–6+ month stays.
As of January 2, 2026, annual listings are $199 per property (opens in new tab), with $149 for each add-on unit and $750 for entire hotels or full apartment complexes – all flat fees with no commissions on bookings. That contrasts with Airbnb, which charges hosts a percentage on every booking.
Furnished Finder now has more than 240,000 landlords and 300,000+ listings (opens in new tab), with over 6 million travelers searching for housing on the platform in the past 12 months. Since 2022, booking inquiries have tripled and the number of unique travelers has more than doubled, making it one of the largest long-term rental marketplaces in the country.
Pros (for owners):
Keep 100% of rent: After the annual listing fee, you keep all rental income. Furnished Finder doesn’t take a cut or charge booking fees. This can make it more profitable than Airbnb for long stays, especially if you expect to keep the place occupied most of the year.
Targeted tenant pool: The platform’s audience skews toward reliable professionals (e.g. healthcare workers on contracts, etc.), which can mean less risk of property damage or partying compared to vacation renters. You can advertise proximity to hospitals or business centers to attract your ideal tenant.
Landlord tools and flexibility: Furnished Finder provides useful tools like tenant screening, lease templates, and insurance options. You set your own rent and security deposit, create your own lease agreement, and communicate directly with inquiries. There’s no algorithm deciding bookings – you negotiate and vet prospective tenants yourself. Many landlords appreciate this control: KeyCheck by Furnished Finder (opens in new tab) runs credit, criminal, and eviction reports via TransUnion SmartMove for $44.99 (with the applicant’s consent), and results are typically back in 24–48 hours without affecting the applicant’s credit score.
Lower fees = competitive pricing: Since you’re not losing ~15% to Airbnb fees, you can potentially charge a slightly lower rent to attract tenants while still netting the same (or better) income. Being on a platform dedicated to 30-day+ rentals also means no occupancy taxes need to be collected in most areas (transient hotel taxes usually don’t apply for long-term tenancies), simplifying your pricing and paperwork.
How to use it effectively:
Treat your listing like a small business. Use great photos and a detailed description highlighting what makes your place ideal (e.g. “10 minutes from Mercy Hospital, all utilities included, fast Wi-Fi, pet friendly”). Price your unit competitively by checking what similar listings in your area charge. Being a little lower can quickly get you a tenant, whereas overpricing will leave it sitting vacant.
Respond to inquiries ASAP; traveling professionals in particular often message several listings and take the first suitable one that responds.
Leverage the platform’s tools: send a KeyCheck tenant screening request to serious applicants. This helps filter serious renters and adds security. Once you find a potential tenant, arrange a video call or meeting; trust and communication are important for a longer tenancy. Have a standard lease agreement ready (Furnished Finder offers templates (opens in new tab)) and make sure it complies with your state’s laws (security deposit handling, etc.).
Also, keep your calendar updated. If your property is occupied or unavailable, mark it so, to avoid getting leads you can’t accommodate. Responsiveness and accuracy will earn you good reviews or at least avoid negative word-of-mouth.
Many landlords find that Furnished Finder provides a steady stream of quality tenants with much lower fees than Airbnb. It shines especially if you’re near hospitals or corporate centers where folks need 3-month housing.
Craigslist (for owners)
Listing your rental on Craigslist is a low-cost, high-reach method to find a tenant. It’s essentially free in most areas (some U.S. cities charge a small fee, like $5 per rental listing, but many are free) and you can post as often as needed.
Craigslist offers a simple “Apartments/Housing for Rent” category where you can advertise your long-term rental. However, because it’s an open classifieds site, landlords should be prepared to manage inquiries diligently and be cautious of scams (yes, landlords can get scammed too).
Pros (for owners):
Broad exposure at little cost: Craigslist is widely used and could get your rental in front of a large local audience. You can reach thousands of prospective renters without spending much (or anything) on advertising. This is ideal for independent landlords on a budget.
Quick and easy posting: Creating a Craigslist ad is straightforward and quick – no long sign-up process or verification. You can include a detailed description, your contact info, and photos. The interface is basic, but effective. If you need to fill a vacancy fast, you can throw up a post in minutes and start getting emails the same day.
Flexibility in communication: You can choose how to be contacted (Craigslist can mask your email and forward responses to you, protecting your identity). You’re free to call or meet prospective tenants on your own terms. There’s no platform policy restricting when you can talk or show the unit. This direct interaction can help you “read” people and make judgments beyond a formal application.
Cons (for owners):
Scam & spam contacts: Be ready for a high volume of inquiries, some of which will be bogus. Common schemes: people posing as interested tenants to phish for your info, or someone overseas offering to send a check without viewing (a red flag). You may get emails that are actually other scammers asking you to click links or “list your property on this other site.” Be wary. Scammers target landlords on Craigslist by, for example, impersonating a tenant who then “overpays” with a fake check and asks for a refund (the check bounces later).
No screening tools: Craigslist doesn’t provide background checks, applications, or secure rent payment systems. You’ll have to handle tenant screening manually. That means collecting applications, running credit/background checks (using third-party services or requiring tenant-supplied reports), and verifying references on your own. This is time-consuming but crucial; do not skip it, since you have no information about the person upfront.
Effort and showings: You’ll need to field calls/emails and schedule showings just as you would with any open-market rental. Be prepared for no-shows. It’s wise to pre-screen on the phone (ask basic questions about move-in date, income, etc.) so you’re not wasting time showing to unqualified folks. This hands-on approach is work. Unlike platforms where bookings come to you, here you must engage with many leads to find “the one.”
How to use it effectively:
Craft a clear, honest, and detailed listing. Include attractive photos (images significantly boost interest) and specify all important details (rent, deposit, lease term, if it’s furnished, included utilities, pet policy, etc.). Use keywords renters search for, like “furnished,” “month-to-month,” “near hospital,” etc., to help your ad appear in searches.
Choose the correct geographic area category so local searchers see it. Enable the Craigslist email relay (so your personal email isn’t public) and consider creating a dedicated email for inquiries. When responding, watch out for the aforementioned scam signs. It’s perfectly okay to set some requirements in your ad (e.g. “Must pass background check and provide references”). This can dissuade some bad actors upfront.
When you find a prospective tenant who seems legitimate, move the conversation to a phone call and then a showing. At the showing, have printed rental applications ready or a way for them to apply (there are online services that provide a link for applicants to authorize background/credit checks, which you can then review). Always screen applicants thoroughly.
Finally, practice safety: meet applicants in a public place first if you feel uneasy, or have someone with you during showings. Once you choose a tenant, use a proper lease agreement.
In summary, Craigslist can absolutely find you a solid long-term tenant with zero commission costs, but it requires legwork and vigilance on the landlord’s part.
Blueground (for property owners)
Blueground isn’t just for renters. They also partner with property owners to supply units for their platform. Essentially, Blueground can lease your apartment or manage it on your behalf as a furnished rental. If you have a vacant high-quality apartment in a city where Blueground operates (a list that now spans 50+ metros worldwide), you might consider this option.
Blueground’s model for owners is often a master lease or management contract: they either rent your property from you for a set term (and then sublet it to their clients), or they act as a property manager that guarantees you a certain income. They tend to be selective, focusing on modern, well-located units (often new or recently renovated).
Pros (for owners):
Guaranteed rent & reduced vacancy: Blueground typically offers a rental guarantee, meaning you receive rent payments every month whether or not the unit is occupied. This eliminates your vacancy risk. For an owner, that stability can be very attractive, especially in uncertain markets. Blueground essentially becomes your tenant (if using the master lease model), so you deal with them, not dozens of short-term tenants.
Fully hands-off management: Blueground will furnish the property for you (if it’s not already furnished) and handle all the operations. They find and vet the tenants, handle check-ins/outs, cleanings, and maintenance issues. This is truly turnkey: you provide the empty property, and Blueground does the rest. It’s a great option if you are an investor or homeowner who doesn’t want the day-to-day hassles of landlording but wants the higher rents that furnished mid-term rentals can bring.
Professional maintenance and care: Since Blueground’s business relies on keeping units in top shape for their clients, they tend to take good care of the property. They perform regular cleaning and maintenance, often more diligently than an average long-term tenant might. Owners have noted that their properties were kept in excellent condition. And if something does get damaged, Blueground addresses it (they likely have insurance and deposits from their clients to cover damages, but they manage all that).
Cons (for owners):
Loss of control: When you hand your property to Blueground, you give up a lot of control over how it’s used. They will furnish it to their brand standards (you might have a say, but they have a formula), and they will decide which guests stay there and for how long. You can no longer personally choose tenants or, say, decide to let your cousin stay there for a week – it’s in Blueground’s system now. Also, if Blueground master-leases it, you technically have no direct relationship with the subtenants. Some owners are uncomfortable being one step removed from what’s happening in their property.
Cost of convenience: Blueground of course takes their cut. The arrangement that “everything is covered” means that convenience is being paid for by the margin they keep. Owners might find that the net income, while steady, could be less than if they self-managed a furnished rental. Blueground is essentially a property manager + corporate tenant in one, and they profit by renting out at higher rates. So you might be able to make more by listing on Furnished Finder or Airbnb yourself, but then you assume the work. Blueground is more about peace of mind and passive income, not maximizing every dollar of revenue.
Selective criteria & onboarding: Blueground doesn’t accept every property. They prefer units that are modern, in very good condition, and in locations they know they can fill. They often require the property to meet certain specs or even that owners invest in some upgrades. All new listings must be approved and can involve inspections. This can be a somewhat slow process. If your property is older or in a less trendy area, Blueground might pass.
How to use it effectively:
If you have a high-end property in a city core, want a completely passive rental experience, and value guaranteed rent, Blueground can be a good partner. Many condo owners or investors use it to avoid vacancies and keep their places in tip-top shape while still earning decent income.
However, if you’re more hands-on, or your property doesn’t fit their model, you might do better on open marketplaces. To proceed, you’d contact Blueground through their “Property Owners” page and submit details about your unit. They’ll evaluate and, if interested, propose terms.
Always read the contract carefully. Understand responsibilities for property damage, what happens if Blueground can’t find tenants, etc. One notable aspect: Blueground’s guarantee of rent means they take on tenant risk, which can be a huge relief – but make sure the contract clearly states the rent amount they’ll pay you and that it’s truly paid regardless of occupancy (as their marketing claims).
All in all, Blueground is worth considering if you meet their criteria and want that “set it and forget it” convenience with a trustworthy corporate tenant.
Landing (for owners)
Landing also works with property owners, though their approach is slightly different from Blueground’s. Landing’s focus is on building a large network of units for its members, so they often partner with multi-family building owners or developers. They have programs like “Landing Autopilot” where they’ll furnish and manage vacant units for owners to generate income.
Landing may be more appealing to professional landlords (owners of multiple units) rather than an individual with one condo, but it’s worth mentioning in case you have a property that fits. As of 2026, Landing’s footprint sits at roughly 250+ U.S. cities after a reset from its earlier expansion.
Pros (for owners):
Turnkey furnishing and management: Landing’s Autopilot program offers to fully furnish your unit and handle all marketing and operations at no extra cost to you. They essentially convert your empty apartment into a Landing unit. This saves you the upfront expense of furniture and the effort of setting up a furnished rental. They also manage bookings, customer service, cleaning, etc. You basically supply the four walls; they do the rest.
Quality control and screening: Landing touts that they rigorously screen their hosts, properties, and renters. That means if your property is accepted, you can trust that Landing’s members who will live there have been vetted for background and creditworthiness. They also handle collecting payment and any security deposits from the tenants. This can reduce the risk of non-payment or problematic tenants from an owner’s perspective.
Revenue and occupancy support: While Landing does charge a service fee (around 8% as reported), they are motivated to keep your place booked since that’s how they earn money too. They have a large membership base across the country, so they bring marketing power. Also, if your property is in a city with multiple Landing units, a member might swap in as soon as another leaves, keeping occupancy high. Some owners use Landing to fill seasonal vacancies or as an alternative to cutting rent in a slow market.
Cons (for owners):
Selective and scale-oriented: Landing tends to work with property owners who have multiple units or larger portfolios. If you just have one condo, they might not be as interested unless it’s in a key location. They often target big apartment complexes to add a few Landing units, or developers with new buildings. So the “average homeowner” might find it hard to get on Landing’s radar. Their screening of hosts means you (and your property) will be evaluated thoroughly too.
Fees and revenue sharing: Landing typically takes an ~8% service fee from the rent. In addition, they may expect a slightly discounted rent from you in exchange for filling the unit consistently. It’s a bit like signing with a property manager or corporate housing firm – they need a margin. So, while you may reduce vacancy, you’re not getting the full market rent value during occupied months. Make sure to crunch the numbers: sometimes paying a small vacancy in a hot market is better than giving up 8% on the whole year.
Lock-in and requirements: Working with Landing will involve a contract. They might require a minimum term (e.g. you agree to let them manage the unit for X months). There could be clauses about exclusivity (you can’t rent the unit on your own while under contract). Also, you’ll need to allow their furnishing and branding. Some owners might not love the particular furniture or design they implement, but that’s part of the package. Landing might also ask for certain upgrades or standards (like digital locks for easier check-in, certain safety devices, etc.).
Landing can be a great partner if you’re in a major city and want to tap into the remote-work housing trend without doing the heavy lifting. They’re especially useful for portfolio landlords or developers who want to offer flexible lease options via a third party.
Other platforms and avenues for owners
Beyond the big names above, here are additional options and considerations for landlords targeting long-term stays:
Corporate Housing By Owner (CHBO): CHBO caters to corporate and executive rentals, attracting relocating professionals, film crews, and insurance placements. Owners pay an annual listing fee (starting around $399) (opens in new tab) to list furnished properties and can often charge premium rents, with access to vetted tenants and corporate rental resources. The downside: higher upfront listing costs, no guaranteed bookings, and high renter expectations.
Homads: Homads offers free listings and charges hosts a 3% booking fee, targeting families and individuals relocating or testing neighborhoods. Pros include no upfront cost, direct communication with guests, and a family-oriented tenant base. Cons are lower visibility outside key cities (e.g., Austin, Dallas, NYC) and a focus on larger, family-friendly homes, making it best as a supplemental platform for such properties.
Kopa: A marketplace for 1–12 month furnished rentals and roommate matching. Useful if you’re renting rooms in a shared home or targeting early-career professionals and interns. Hosts set their own prices and interact with renters directly.
Flatio: Primarily international, Flatio connects hosts with digital nomads, expats, and students on 1–12 month stays. Worth a look if your property is in a major global city or is particularly remote-work friendly.
Sabbatical Homes: This niche platform connects academics seeking rentals or home swaps during sabbaticals or research trips. Owners pay roughly $65–$175/year to list, attracting responsible, mature tenants like professors and grad students. The audience is small and pricing should be reasonable, but it’s ideal for well-located homes in college towns or near research institutes.
Apartment Collection by Hilton (for developers and multifamily): Hilton’s new extended-stay apartment brand, launched in 2026 (opens in new tab), partners with multifamily developers and owners in key U.S. metros. If you own or operate a new apartment building in NYC, D.C., or Atlanta (with more cities rolling out), it’s worth exploring as a way to plug into Hilton’s booking engine and Hilton Honors demand.
Facebook & local outreach: Posting in local housing Facebook groups, community boards, or on personal social media can connect you with quality tenants – sometimes through referrals. It’s free and can tap into targeted networks (e.g., travel nurse groups), but you’ll still need to screen applicants and watch for scammers.
Traditional rental listings: List on Zillow, Trulia, or the MLS with “furnished, short-term lease considered” to attract tenants between homes or open to shorter stays. Expect market-rate rent rather than a premium, making this best for filling vacancy gaps.
Benefits of offering long-term stays vs. short-term rentals
For U.S. property owners, pivoting to long-term rentals (leases of 30+ days) instead of nightly or weekly vacation rentals can offer several compelling advantages.
These benefits span financial stability, legal simplicity, operational ease, and even better tenant behavior. And recent market events – like Sonder’s Chapter 7 bankruptcy in late 2025 after its partnership with Marriott unraveled (opens in new tab) – have reminded owners how volatile the short-term side of the industry can be.
Below, we break down the key reasons why long-term stays can be a smart strategy for landlords.
Financial advantages
Stable, predictable income
Long-term leases provide a steady monthly rent that you can count on, making your income stream far more reliable than the ebb and flow of short-term bookings. Unlike seasonal vacation rentals that might sit empty in off-peak months, a 6- or 12-month tenant guarantees occupancy and cash flow. This consistency allows for better financial planning and peace of mind knowing the property won’t sit vacant.
Reduced vacancy risk
With tenants committed for months or even a year, you face far fewer gaps between occupancies. Longer leases mean less frequent turnover, so the property is rarely idle and not generating income. Even during market slowdowns, long-term renters are less likely to leave, ensuring you avoid the high vacancy periods that often plague short-term rentals in off-season.
Tax and compliance benefits
In many jurisdictions, rentals extending beyond 30 days are exempt from the lodging and occupancy taxes that typically apply to short-term rentals. This can save you (and your guests) a significant amount in taxes and simplify compliance paperwork. Additionally, long-term rental income tends to be classified as passive rental income for tax purposes, which may offer certain deductions (like for depreciation, maintenance, etc.) similar to any residential leasing activity, without the added burden of hotel-style taxes in most areas.
Legal & regulatory advantages
Fewer restrictions and permits
Short-term rentals (like Airbnb-style stays under 30 days) often face strict local regulations – from requiring special permits to outright bans in some cities. By contrast, standard long-term rentals (month-to-month or annual leases) encounter far fewer legal hurdles. Most U.S. cities treat long-term renting as a normal residential activity, so you won’t need to navigate the constantly changing rules that apply to vacation rentals.
For example, some municipalities limit the number of nights per year you can rent short-term or require owners to occupy the property, which doesn’t apply when you have a traditional long-term tenant. Overall, choosing 30+ day tenancies means less risk of sudden legal changes disrupting your business and generally no need for expensive short-term rental licenses or hotel taxes.
Simpler landlord-tenant law compliance
Long-term rentals are governed by well-established landlord-tenant laws, which are more predictable than the patchwork of new ordinances targeting short stays. You’ll typically just use a standard lease agreement and follow familiar rules (such as notice periods for entry or eviction procedures), rather than jumping through additional hoops designed for vacation rentals. This stability in the legal landscape offers landlords more certainty and fewer surprises compared to the evolving compliance demands in the short-term rental market.
Operational benefits
Lower turnover & maintenance burden
Fewer turnovers are a major operational win for long-term rentals. Instead of cleaning and prepping the property after each guest (which could be multiple times a week in a short-term scenario), you might only have to do deep cleaning and repairs once a year or between long-term tenants.
This reduced churn means lower cleaning costs, less frequent listings and tenant searches, and minimal wear-and-tear from constant move-ins and move-outs. In fact, with tenants staying for extended periods, there’s typically less of the heavy use that comes from a parade of vacationers and suitcases. Walls get fewer scuffs and appliances see steadier, everyday use rather than intense short-term strain.
Less day-to-day management
Long-term rentals are far closer to a “set-and-forget” income stream, especially when compared to the hands-on management of short-term stays. Once a reliable tenant is in place, you no longer need to advertise the property weekly, coordinate back-to-back cleanings, or handle constant check-in/check-out logistics. Utilities and daily upkeep often become the tenant’s responsibility in long-term agreements, further reducing your workload.
You also won’t be fielding nightly inquiries or urgent guest requests at all hours. There’s no need to act like a concierge providing restaurant tips or solving Wi-Fi issues every few days. In short, long-term renting significantly streamlines operations. Many landlords find they can step back and take a more passive role, especially if the tenant is self-sufficient and you’ve set up automatic rent payments.
Tenant quality and reduced risk of disruptive behavior
Thorough tenant screening
When you rent long-term, you have the opportunity to carefully vet tenants – checking credit scores, employment, rental history, and references – to find a responsible individual or family. This level of screening and selection is generally not possible with short-term guests, where bookings are often instant or rely only on minimal platform checks.
By choosing stable, qualified renters, you significantly lower the chances of late payments, property damage, or rule violations. In essence, long-term leasing lets you know who is living in your property, whereas short-term hosting can feel like a revolving door of unknown occupants.
Responsible “home-like” treatment
Tenants who sign a longer lease tend to treat the property as their home, not a hotel room. Because they settle in and make it their residence, they have a greater incentive to keep the place in good condition and abide by community norms. Long-term renters often promptly report maintenance issues (since it affects their living conditions), which helps address minor problems before they become major repairs. They’re also more likely to be mindful of neighbors and avoid disruptive behavior. Noisy parties or reckless use of the property are far less common when someone is living there continuously and invested in keeping their home comfortable.
By contrast, short-term vacationers – who are on a quick getaway – may be less concerned about noise or mess, leading to more neighbor complaints in those scenarios. In sum, a vetted long-term tenant usually means greater respect for your property and fewer headaches from emergency calls or misconduct.
By focusing on long-term stays, landlords can enjoy a more stable and hands-off rental experience. The financial predictability, lighter regulatory load, reduced day-to-day hassle, and generally better tenant behavior all contribute to making 30+ day rentals an attractive option for property owners looking for steady returns with minimal drama. This strategy isn’t about maximizing the nightly rate. It’s about maximizing peace of mind and consistent yield over the long run.