1. Start
2. Guide Overview
3. Rental
4. Professional Renting – Systematic Approach for Sustainable Tenant Success

Professional Renting – Systematic Approach for Sustainable Tenant Success

Renting out residential property is increasingly evolving from a casual private matter into a structured, professional activity. Those who want to rent professionally pursue clear goals: reliable returns, legally secure processes, and long-term tenancies. But what exactly does it mean to rent professionally – and how do you get started?

What Does “Professional Renting” Mean?

Professional renting is more than just placing an ad. It involves ongoing, strategic rental activity with an economic purpose. Typical characteristics include:

• Regular rentals with stable income
• Clear processes – from application to contract handling and key handover
• Legal certainty through tailored contracts and compliance with legal requirements
• Marketing orientation, e.g., targeted ads, audience focus, platform selection
• Digital solutions for availability, communication, and contract management

Anyone managing multiple properties or offering additional services like furnishing or cleaning is quickly operating on a commercial level. But even private landlords can benefit from professional standards.

Steps to Professional Renting

1. Define Target Group and Rental Model

Before listing a property, it pays to have a clear strategy: Who is the target – students, commuters, companies? Is it about temporary rentals, long-term leases, or furnished apartments?

A well-thought-out concept increases relevance and simplifies communication.

2. Optimize Property Condition and Furnishings

Professionally rented housing should be in good condition. This includes:

• Functional kitchen and bathroom
• Wi-Fi, washing machine, possibly a workspace
• Well-maintained furniture (for furnished rentals)
• Clean, bright rooms
• Technically safe equipment (e.g., smoke detectors, electricity)

A well-equipped unit not only boosts appeal but also justifies market-level rent.

3. Platform Selection and Ad Creation

Successful marketing depends on the right platform. Portals like WG-Gesucht.de, regional real estate sites, or booking systems on your own website offer suitable reach.

Regular advertisers or those managing multiple units benefit from tools like WG-Gesucht PRO – a solution tailored for professional providers. It allows targeted listings, efficient inquiry management, and optimal marketing for temporary, furnished apartments.

A professional listing includes:

• Clear title tailored to the target group
• High-quality photos
• Precise details on size, location, features, and price
• Transparent info on rental duration, deposit, and additional costs
• Contact option and booking link if applicable

4. Rent Pricing and Transparency

Rent can generally be set freely – unless subject to rent control. A transparent breakdown is crucial:

• Base rent
• Additional costs
• Furniture surcharge (if applicable)
• Service fees (e.g., cleaning)

A clear calculation prevents questions and builds trust.

5. Contract Design and Legal Security

A professional lease agreement regulates:

• Start and end of the tenancy
• Rent payments and additional costs
• Extra services (cleaning, internet, furniture)
• Deposit and return conditions
• House rules, notice periods, liability

For short-term or commercial rentals, a lodging agreement may be appropriate.

Legal Basis for Professional Renting

Check Commercial Registration

Once you generate regular income or offer extra services, commercial registration is required. An exception applies only when renting out one apartment long-term with no commercial intent.

Observe Ban on Misuse of Housing

In many cities, renting for commercial or tourist purposes requires a permit. Violating the ban on misuse can be costly. Early consultation with the building authority is recommended.

Clarify Tax Obligations

• Rental income must be taxed
• Short-term rentals (< 6 months) may be subject to VAT
• The small business regulation no longer applies above €22,000 annual turnover
• A tax advisor ensures clarity and avoids back payments

Advantages of Professional Renting

• Better marketing potential through professional listings
• Legal security via verified contracts
• Faster rentals through structured processes
• Long-term income through targeted audience approach
• More control using digital tools

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Professional Renting

When Is a Rental Considered “Professional”?

As soon as rentals are regular, intended for profit, or include extra services, it is considered professional renting.

Is Commercial Registration Required for Furnished Rentals?

Yes, if furnished apartments are rented repeatedly or long-term for profit, commercial registration is usually required.

What Is Allowed in Rent Pricing?

Rent can be freely set but must be market-appropriate and transparent. Surcharges for furniture or services are allowed if clearly explained.

Which Platform Is Suitable for Professional Renting?

Platforms like WG-Gesucht.de for temporary listings, especially for multiple units.

What Are the Legal Risks?

Without commercial registration or when violating the housing misuse ban, fines may apply. Faulty contracts can also lead to issues.

Useful Information from Official Sources & Portals:

• Commercial Registration – Nationwide Info
• Housing Misuse FAQ – Haus & Grund
• WG-Gesucht PRO – For Professional Providers