Expats: Should You Choose Short-Term or Long-Term Rentals Now 2025?

REAL ESTATE4 weeks ago

Moving to a new country can be exciting and overwhelming at the same time. One of the first and most important decisions expats need to make is choosing between short-term and long-term rental options. This choice can affect your lifestyle, finances, flexibility, and even your sense of comfort abroad.

In this guide, we break down the pros and cons of both rental types to help expats make informed decisions. Whether you’re planning a few months abroad or starting a new life overseas, here’s what you should know before signing a lease.

What Is a Short-Term Rental?

Short-term rentals are fully furnished properties that are rented out for a few days to a few months. These rentals are often found on platforms like Airbnb, Vrbo, or local property rental websites. Many short-term rentals include utilities, Wi-Fi, and even cleaning services.

Examples of short-term rentals:

Monthly furnished apartment in downtown Lisbon
Beachside villa rented for three months in Bali
2-week serviced apartment stay in Tokyo

What Is a Long-Term Rental?

Long-term rentals usually refer to leases that last six months or longer. These properties may be unfurnished or semi-furnished and often require the tenant to sign a formal lease contract. Utility bills and maintenance are often separate from the rent.

Examples of long-term rentals:

Year-long lease on an apartment in Berlin
Two-bedroom flat in Mexico City for 12 months
6-month contract for a house in Cape Town

Factors Expats Should Consider

When choosing between short- and long-term rentals, expats should consider several personal and logistical factors. Below are the most important ones:

1. Length of Stay

Ask yourself: How long do I plan to stay in this country?

If you’re staying for a few weeks or months, short-term rentals are often the most convenient. However, if you’re relocating for work, study, or retirement, a long-term rental may offer better value and stability.

Tip: Some landlords offer mid-term rental contracts (3-6 months) that combine flexibility and better pricing.

2. Budget and Cost

Short-term rentals can be more expensive per month because they offer flexibility and include utilities. Long-term rentals are generally cheaper but may require upfront costs like deposits, agency fees, or furniture purchases.

Short-Term Rental Cost Example:

$1,500/month with utilities, Wi-Fi, and cleaning included

Long-Term Rental Cost Example:

$900/month + $200 for utilities + deposit (1-3 months’ rent)

Bottom line: Short-term is convenient but costly; long-term saves money over time.

3. Flexibility

Short-term rentals give you the freedom to move around easily. This is ideal for digital nomads, students, or new arrivals who want to explore before settling.

Long-term rentals often come with stricter contracts. Ending a lease early may involve penalties or legal issues.

Pro Tip: If you’re unsure about your stay, start with a short-term lease and switch to long-term later.

4. Comfort and Personalization

Long-term rentals allow you to personalize your space. You can choose your own furniture, décor, and even paint the walls. This helps create a sense of “home.”

Short-term rentals, while fully equipped, may feel impersonal. There’s usually little room for customization.

Consider: Do you value comfort and familiarity or ease and simplicity?

5. Legal and Visa Issues

In some countries, long-term rental contracts are tied to your visa or residency status. Landlords may require proof of employment, visa validity, or a local bank account.

Short-term rentals usually have fewer legal hurdles but may not be accepted as official proof of address for visa renewals or banking.

Key Advice: Always check local laws and ask if the rental can be used as a legal address.

6. Local Market Conditions

Rental availability varies from city to city. In high-demand areas, short-term rentals may be more common—and more expensive. Some cities also limit short-term rentals due to housing shortages.

Example: In Barcelona, regulations now restrict tourist rentals in some neighborhoods.

Research the local market before choosing. Talk to other expats, check Facebook groups, or consult local agents for insights.

Final Thoughts: Which Option Is Best for You?

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The right rental choice depends on your lifestyle, plans, and budget. Here’s a quick comparison to help you decide:

Factor	Short-Term Rental	Long-Term Rental
Stay Duration	Days to months	6 months to several years
Cost	Higher monthly, all-inclusive	Lower monthly, extra fees
Flexibility	High — easy to change/move	Low — fixed contract terms
Comfort	Basic comfort, less personalization	More “homey,” fully customizable
Legal Use	Sometimes not valid for visas/banking	Often required for legal documents
Ideal For	Tourists, nomads, temporary workers	Families, expat professionals, retirees

Bonus Tips for Expats

Use Reputable Websites: Avoid scams by booking through well-known platforms or local real estate agencies.
Inspect Before You Sign: If possible, view the property or have a trusted person do it for you.
Ask About Inclusions: Confirm what’s included in the rent—utilities, internet, furnishings, etc.
Negotiate: In many countries, landlords are open to negotiation, especially for long stays.

Conclusion

Deciding between short-term and long-term rentals is one of the first—and most important—steps in your expat journey. By weighing your options carefully and understanding what each type of rental offers, you can find a place that suits your needs, supports your goals, and helps you feel at home in your new country.

Whether you value freedom or stability, affordability or convenience, making the right rental choice will shape your overall expat experience. Take your time, do your research, and choose the path that aligns best with your new life abroad.