When furnishing a mid-term rental, remember that tenants are staying for 30 days or more (on average, 3 months!), and have different furnishing needs than a short-term or vacation rental. Practical furnishings are far more important than vanity furnishings. To help you get started with your first (or next) mid-term rental property, we’ve put together this list of suggested furnishings.
Kitchen
Table & chairs or barstools
Plates, bowls
Cups, mugs, wine glasses
Utensils for eating and cooking (everything from forks and spoons to a can opener!)
Pots, pans, and bakeware
Small appliances - coffee maker, air fryer, blender, toaster, microwave
Kitchen towels, scrub brush for dishes, and drying rack
Trash can and recycling bin
Living space
Couch and/or chairs
Coffee table
Lamp(s)
Smart TV
Wifi router
Throw pillows
Extra throw blankets
Bedroom
Bedframe, mattress (high quality), mattress enclosure, sheets, duvet w/insert, pillows w/cases
Extras of all bedding and blankets
Nightstand
Dresser
Lamp
Hangers
Full length mirror
Curtains
Bathroom
Shower curtain and liner
Trash can
Towels
Bath mat/rugs
Toilet plunger and brush
Other
Basic decor to make your space feel like a welcoming home
Small supply of paper products (toilet paper, paper towels), trash bags, dish soap, etc to get your tenant settled
Desk or work space for a laptop with comfortable chair- consider adding a monitor for remote workers
Artificial or real plants
Dog crate if you are pet friendly
In general, we suggest thinking closely about what you use on a day-to-day basis. This is different than what you use on vacation, or for STRs. When on vacation, tenants are looking for things like beach towels, board games, and bicycles. In the mid-term world, a comfortable mattress, fully stocked kitchen, and extra linens are a big appeal!
Be sure to get great photos of your property, showing off all of the thoughtful furnishings. Also check to ensure that you have marked all amenities you have available in your property’s listing, as this can be key for tenants searching. Things like free parking and pet-friendly go a long way in the MTR world!