When investing in a property, you will want to know you are spending your money wisely, so that you are getting a worthwhile return. Short-term Airbnb lets are usually based on tourism, where people rent the property for a short period of time.

Long-term rentals on the other hand are let for at least six months or more with a tenancy agreement signed by both parties. Landlords and their agents, typically advertise on property portals and agent databases to find tenants then rent is collected each month.

If you are planning on buying to let, you might be thinking about the comparisons between short-term Airbnb vs. long term lets. There are a number of factors to consider, and we hope this helps you make your choice.

We understand that for Airbnb owners, having a few short-term lets can help enhance a property portfolio and the benefits include dependable income, less prohibitive regulation and reduced workload. It also provides flexibility to use the additional space yourself, especially if it is near where you live. Airbnb short-term lets are becoming more popular with those who seek a more relaxed style of business trip, but with tenants constantly changing, there can be more work in the long run to do, such as changeovers and maintaining the property. There is however, no requirement to serve notice, and you can use the property for yourself, or family and friends.

Traditionally, the disadvantage of short-term lets is that they are more likely to have long vacant periods. This is changing now though, as people have the option to sign up for several months at a time. This means landlords can secure long-term bookings and have a more consistent and predictable income stream.

With simply more admin and potentially more cleaning and repairs with the comings and goings of multiple occupants, short-term lettings pave the way for more expense, and even longer periods of time with properties left unoccupied. That being said, they can be a great way to earn extra money each month, as many people do. We suggest looking at comparable properties to see what your occupancy rate is likely to be. Quirky properties in desirable locations are likely to have more bookings than those in less popular locations lacking character and facilities. If you aren't looking at it as a real money making scheme and want flexibility, then short term is certainly the way forward.

A long term rental generally requires less involvement than a shorter term Airbnb let. There is a little more to do before tenants move in of course (referencing, legislation, legal contracts, compliance etc), but once tenants are in, they could stay for as long as all parties are happy. Once a tenant is occupying the property, all that's needed are routine inspections, and maintenance. Most of this occurs initially, then midway through their contract, or if problems arise throughout their tenancy agreement. A lot of landlords like to carry the checks out themselves, which works out at less of a cost than bringing in an agent, but using an agent brings with it more security, regularity and protection.

One of the biggest advantages of a long-term let over a shorter term Airbnb is that tenants can be screened and the right ones selected to rent your home. With viewings you can meet them and get a good feel for who they are and what they are looking for. With that comes a very consistent income. Tenant referencing also provides credit and employment checks, as well as references from previous landlords, which brings with it peace of mind that the rent will be paid with no further issues. The freedom of having an agent look after your property for you is that you are not bound with your time to be in several potential places at once, especially if you own multiple properties. The agent can also manage 24/7 maintenance enquiries, liaising with contractors for work, issue resolution and chase any outstanding rent payments. It is far easier to hand over the keys, allowing for work or inspections to be done for you.

As prices currently continue to rise, Airbnb hosts are beginning to think about the impact this is having on lets. Those on a short-term stay for brief periods know they are only paying for their stay, and are less likely to consider their water or energy usage. Being the one to pick up the bills, owners of the property can be left unpleasantly surprised unless they match their rental price accordingly. With long-term lets, bills are the responsibility of the tenant, which only really leaves the price of the rent to consider.