Listing Your Boardinghouse – How to Get Found Fast

Modern eingerichtetes Sofa in heller Unterkunft – Symbol für einladende Boardinghouses Image source: Katsia Jazwinska | Unsplash

Boardinghouses are booming. Whether for expats, project workers, or long-term travelers: the demand for furnished living with hotel comfort is steadily rising. However, anyone operating or opening a new boardinghouse faces the question: How to advertise properly? Which platforms are worthwhile, what must be included in the ad – and what legal requirements must be considered?

What is a Boardinghouse?

A boardinghouse is a furnished accommodation with hotel-like services, booked for weeks or months. The units are self-contained (apartment style), often with a kitchen, bathroom, and workspace. Depending on the concept, the offerings range from:

  • Self-service apartments
  • Business boardinghouses
  • Serviced apartments with reception and cleaning services
  • Luxury long-stay suites

Target audience: Commuters, expats, fitters, project staff, companies – all needing temporary living with a comfort focus.

Advertise Your Boardinghouse – Your Step-by-Step Guide

1. Target Group Analysis

Define who you want to reach. Business travelers, for example, need:

  • Fast Wi-Fi
  • Good transport connections
  • Parking spaces
  • Modern amenities

Companies also value:

  • Invoice issuing
  • Discounts for long-term bookings

2. Choose Suitable Platforms

To market your boardinghouse optimally, use platforms specializing in furnished temporary accommodation. Broad visibility, both online and offline, is important.

Recommended strategies include:

  • Creating a dedicated website with integrated booking tools and optimized SEO
  • Publishing listings on portals for temporary rentals, such as WG-Gesucht.de, which supports time-limited rental offers
  • Using specialized categories like "temporary housing" to target specific audiences (depending on the platform)
  • Maintaining a detailed online profile with up-to-date information, availability, and high-quality photos
  • Implementing local SEO tactics to improve visibility in regional searches

Tip: A well-optimized website combined with listings on high-traffic platforms like WG-Gesucht.de can significantly increase reach and help attract long-term tenants directly.

3. Create a Professional Listing

A good listing includes:

  • High-quality photos of all rooms
  • Detailed amenities description (e.g., kitchen, washing machine, cleaning)
  • Service offers (breakfast, concierge, laundry service, etc.)
  • Pricing per week or month
  • Availability calendar
  • Contact options & possibly a booking link

Tip: Listings in German & English increase your reach to international guests.

Legal Aspects When Advertising a Boardinghouse

A boardinghouse typically falls under commercial renting or lodging. This means:

  • Business registration required
  • Registration obligation for tourist stays (e.g., stays under 6 months)
  • Observe regulations against misappropriation – especially in large cities
  • Check building law permissions – not every apartment can be used as a boardinghouse
  • Comply with fire safety and hygiene standards
  • Taxes: Income is considered commercial – VAT may apply!

Tips for Better Visibility of Your Listing

  • Google My Business: Add location, photos & contact information
  • Social Media: Actively use your own channels
  • Collect customer reviews – on your website or independent platforms
  • Highlight long-term offers – e.g., discounts starting from 4 weeks
  • Regularly update the calendar – saves inquiries and increases booking rate

Useful Information from Official Sources & Portals:

FAQ – Common Questions About Advertising a Boardinghouse

What is the difference between a boardinghouse and a holiday apartment?

A boardinghouse targets long-term tenants (usually > 1 month) and offers services like cleaning and invoicing. Holiday apartments are mostly rented out for short-term, tourist stays.

How high can I set the rent?

There is no rent control for commercial use. Prices should be market-appropriate – including services.

What documents do I need from the tenant?

For long-term stays: ID card, registration address, possibly commercial register excerpt (for corporate bookings). Depends on the platform & internal policy.

How can I prevent vacancies?

To prevent vacancies, proactive property management is essential, including realistic pricing, professional marketing, prompt communication, regular maintenance, attractive features, and good tenant support.

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