Long - term rentals vs short - term stays: which investment strategy is better?

 Understanding the best strategy for rental investments

Investors are often big on real estate because of its potential to generate handsome rental income.  This passive income is often preferred, due to the straightforward process involved.  Once the tenant is finalised and the paperwork is completed, the homeowner typically doesn’t need to interfere with the tenant, and , it is guaranteed that a set amount will be credited to their account monthly.  However, with the emergence of short-term rentals, the concept of renting has turned on its head.  Homeowners now need to be more hands-on, but does this also increase the ROI?

“Long-term stays usually refer to renting for six months or more-sometimes even stretching into years.  Short-term stays involve renting for shorter durations, typically less than six months.

“Short-term rentals can potentially generate higher income via every stay as compared to long-term rentals.  However, occupancy rates can fluctuate seasonally, impacting overall income.  Long-term rentals offer predictable, consistent income, but the potential for higher returns is limited.

Thus, it is extremely crucial to exercise due diligence and conduct thorough research before diving into any rental investment of this nature.  The investment for both types of rentals is significant, and their returns could be determined seasonally or by their proximity to local attractions.  Therefore, to help determine the conflict between the two rental options, a real estate firm explains each rental option in detail, along with their drawbacks.

SHORT-TERM STAYS

HIGHER RETURNS WITH HIGHER EFFORT

Higher Potential Income:

A well-located apartment in Mumbai’s Bandra or Goa’s Candolim can earn two or three times more through short-term rentals compared to long-term leases, especially during peak seasons.

Flexibility:

Owners can use the property themselves when needed.  This is particularly advantageous in vacation destinations like Udaipur, Goa, Shimla or Puducherry.

 Diverse guest base:

Short-term rentals attract a mix of tourists and business travellers, reducing dependency on a single market segment.

Price adaptability:

Rates can be adjusted based on demand.  During special events that hold cultural significance to that area or the country, short-term rental prices can skyrocket.

HOWEVER, SHORT-TERM RENTALS COME WITH THEIR OWN SET OF CHALLENGES:

Higher Operational Costs:

Frequent cleaning, maintenance, and guest management increases cost.  In cities like Bengaluru, where the IT sector drives short-term corporate stays, maintaining high standards is crucial but expensive.

Seasonal Fluctuations:

Cities like Shimla or Manali see high occupancy during peak seasons but might struggle during off-seasons.

Regulatory Uncertainties:

Many Indian cities are still grappling with regulations for short-term rentals.  In Goa, for instance, there have been ongoing discussions about licensing requirements for short-term rental properties.

More hands-on management:

Short-term rentals require active management.  In a city like Chennai, where both business and leisure travellers are common, catering to diverse needs can be time-consuming.

LONG-TERM RENTALS

LONG-TERM RENTALS STABILITY AND STEADY INCOME

Steady income:

In cities like Mumbai and Delhi, where housing demand remains high, long-term rentals provide a consistent monthly income.  For instance, a two-BHK apartment in Mumbai’s prime location can yield a steady monthly rent of Rs 60,000-70,000 and sometimes even more that that depending on the location.

Lower maintenance:

With tenants typically staying for years, the property experiences less wear and tear.  This is particularly beneficial in older properties in areas like Kolkata’s Park Street or Delhi’s Connaught Place.

Easier management:

Long-term rentals require less day-to-day involvement.  An apartment in Bengaluru’s Indiranagar, for example, might only need attention during yearly maintenance or tenant changes.

Appreciation focus:

Investors can focus on long-term appreciation.  Properties in developing areas have seen significant value increases over time, alongside steady rental income.

HOWEVER, LONG TERM RENTALS ALSO HAVE DRAWBACKS:

Lower to moderate yields:

Rental yields in most Indian cities hover around one to three percent annually for residential properties, which is relatively low as compared to other investment options.  Whilst commercial properties, offer yields of around four to six percent.

Tenant risks:

Issues like non-payment or property damage can be significant.  There is also a possibility of evicting problematic tenants becoming legally complex.