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Marketing temporary housing: tips, legal guidance & opportunities for landlords
Image source: Grant | Unsplash
Whether due to a temporary job, a semester abroad or a transitional life phase – the demand for furnished short-term rentals is rising. Especially in urban areas, temporary housing is a popular option. For property owners, this presents an attractive opportunity for flexible, time-limited letting.
But before marketing your property for temporary use, it's essential to understand the legal framework, your target groups, and organizational details – to rent not only successfully but also legally compliant.
What exactly is 'temporary housing'?
Temporary housing refers to the limited-term rental of furnished apartments or rooms – typically for a duration of one to twelve months. It is intended for tenants with a verifiable temporary need, not for tourists.
Typical examples:
- Corporate or business apartments
- Housing during academic semesters
- Subletting while the owner is away
- Furnished shared rooms (WG) for limited periods
Who is temporary housing suitable for?
These target groups frequently search for short-term rentals:
- Commuters & project workers
- Expats & relocation professionals
- Students & interns
- People in transitional phases (e.g. separation, renovations)
Tip: Depending on your property's equipment and location, you can tailor your marketing to these groups – for example, via professional listings and clear rental terms.
Advantages of offering temporary rentals
- High demand in metropolitan and university cities
- Flexible contract design with short commitments
- Lower risk of rent defaults due to limited terms
- Furniture surcharges allowed as part of the rent
- Ideal use of temporarily vacant property
Legal aspects landlords must consider
1. Drafting a proper fixed-term rental contract
According to § 575 BGB, a tenancy can only be limited if a legitimate interest exists, such as:
- Owner's future personal use
- Planned renovations or conversions
- Subletting during the owner's absence
Important: The reason must be stated clearly and in writing in the contract.
2. Rent control & furniture surcharge
Even temporary rentals may be subject to rent control, especially in tight markets. Surcharges for furnishings are allowed, but should be realistic and transparent – typically 1–2% of the furniture’s value per month.
3. Misuse regulations & approval requirements
In cities like Berlin, Hamburg or Munich, short-term letting of furnished apartments may require a permit. This is due to housing misuse regulations (Zweckentfremdungsverbot).
Note: Always check with your local housing or building authority for approval requirements.
Furnished vs. unfurnished – a comparison
| Furnished | Unfurnished |
|---|---|
| Higher rent via furniture surcharge | More long-term rental relationships |
| Ideal for commuters or expats | Lower management effort |
| Shorter lease terms = more flexibility | Lower risk of furniture wear |
| More cleaning & maintenance work | No inventory list needed |
FAQ – Renting temporary housing properly
Do I need a permit for temporary rentals?
In many major cities: yes – especially with frequent or commercial rentals. Check with your local authority early.
How is the rental price determined?
The standard local rent serves as a base. Furnished rentals can include a surcharge reflecting actual furniture value.
What should be included in the contract?
- Exact term and termination rules
- Justification for limited duration
- Inventory list
- Utility cost structure (flat or advance payment)
- Security deposit (usually up to three months' rent)
Efficient letting with WG-Gesucht PRO
If you regularly offer furnished apartments, WG-Gesucht PRO supports you with daily listing updates, a Verified badge, a branded profile page, and clear performance reporting. Your communication is also automatically synchronized. Ideal for anyone looking to rent out quickly and professionally.
Checklist for successful temporary letting
- Property is fully furnished & move-in ready
- Contract includes a clear, justified term
- Misuse regulations checked & permit obtained if needed
- Inventory documented
- Rent incl. surcharges properly calculated
- Target group defined
- Listing professionally written & published
- Reserves for wear or vacancy planned
Useful information from official sources
The article
Marketing temporary housing: tips, legal guidance & opportunities for landlords
published in
Temporary accommodation
category is protected by copyright. Any use of this text, in whole or in part, requires the author’s written permission.
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