Short-term guests come and go, the calendar stays full, and you’re constantly cleaning, messaging, and turning over your space. It’s the rhythm of most Airbnb businesses. But eventually, many hosts start asking: What if I offered long-term stays instead?
A guest staying for 30+ nights can sound like a dream—less work, fewer turnovers, and steady income. But it also comes with risks that can be costly if you’re not prepared. Here’s the real deal on offering long-term stays on Airbnb, and how to decide if it’s right for your property.
The Pros of Long-Term Airbnb Guests
- Consistent Income: One booking, 30+ nights. You don’t have to worry about filling multiple short-term gaps.
- Less Cleaning and Turnover: Fewer check-ins and check-outs means fewer cleanings and less stress.
- Ideal in Low Season: If your property is slow during certain months, offering long stays can help stabilize your earnings.
The Cons (That Most Hosts Don’t Think About)
- Legal Risks: In many places, a stay longer than 28 or 30 days gives guests “tenant” rights. That means if something goes wrong, you may have to formally evict them—not just ask Airbnb to help.
- More Wear and Tear: Longer stays can lead to more personal use of the property—think full kitchens, daily showers, laundry. It adds up.
- Harder to Rebook if Things Go South: If a long-term guest cancels last minute, you’ve potentially blocked off weeks or months with no backup plan.
Tips If You Do Offer Long-Term Stays
- Adjust Your Pricing: Offer monthly discounts but make sure your rate still covers your costs. Don’t undercut yourself just to fill a spot.
- Vet Guests Carefully: Look at reviews, ask questions, and confirm they understand the rules. Be more selective with long-term bookings than short stays.
- Set Expectations Up Front: Be clear about cleanings, garbage pickup, house rules, and communication. You may want to offer biweekly or monthly cleanings at an added cost.
- Understand Local Laws: Tenant rights kick in fast in some areas (especially in Ontario). Make sure you know what your legal rights and responsibilities are before accepting long-term stays.
When It Makes Sense
- You have a separate unit or basement apartment that doesn’t need constant oversight.
- Your property is in a city where traveling nurses, students, or digital nomads are common.
- You need a break from high turnover and want a slower, more passive setup.
When It Doesn’t
- You’re in an area with strict tenant laws and eviction protections.
- Your unit relies on frequent cleanings to maintain its quality and reviews.
- You depend on maximizing nightly rates during high-demand seasons.
Bottom LineLong-term Airbnb guests can be a blessing—or a massive headache. The key is to go in with a clear plan, proper screening, and a full understanding of what you're signing up for.
Need help deciding if long-term or short-term is best for your space? Want someone to manage the screening, cleaning, and messaging either way? We’ve got your back. Email info@bookedhosts.com or scroll down and fill out our contact form to learn more.
.png)
