Short Term Rental Questions Answered | STR and MTR Guide for Oregon

People jump into Airbnb or mid term rentals with confidence and optimism, then immediately realize there is a lot no one warned them about. These are the questions experienced hosts end up asking, usually after learning the hard way.

How much can my place make per night?

Everyone wants a clean number. The truth is there isn’t one. Rates change based on the season, holidays, weather, local events, competition, and how well the place is designed. A property can swing forty to fifty percent in either direction depending on what month it is. Nightly rate should always be viewed as a moving target, not a fixed fact.

Is occupancy more important than pricing?

Most new hosts think full calendar equals success. Not always. High occupancy at bargain rates can mean less profit than fewer bookings at the right price. The real metric to watch is net revenue. Occupancy without strategy is just noise.

How do I know if STRs are even allowed in my area?

This is one of the most overlooked pieces. Cities and counties all have their own rules. Some areas require permits. Some limit how close rentals can be to each other. Some only allow them in specific zones. Some shut the door completely. The rules can change with elections too, so relying on old information is a mistake. Always check the current regulations.

What about mid term rentals?

Thirty day or longer stays fall under a different category. They can work well in areas where traditional STRs are restricted. They usually mean less turnover, fewer cleanings, and fewer guest issues. They also require a different pricing strategy because you are competing with furnished housing, not nightly stays.

What expenses do new hosts underestimate?

Cleaning. Restocking. Wear and tear. Higher utility usage. Platform fees. Repairs. The stuff you don’t see on social media. STRs make good money when they are well managed, but they are not passive. Budgeting only for the mortgage and cleaning fee is how hosts get blindsided.

How important are design and photos?

Very. High performing listings almost always invest in design, staging, and pro photos. Guests scroll fast. If the thumbnail doesn’t stop the scroll, the rest of the listing doesn’t matter. People book with their eyes first.

What is a realistic ROI?

It depends on the city, the demand cycles, the competition, and the rules. STRs in seasonal markets have peaks and dead zones. Coastal markets often perform differently than mountain towns. ROI comes from understanding the entire year, not just the best months.

Do I need to be available 24/7?

If you are running it yourself, yes. Issues happen at 2 in the morning, not 2 in the afternoon. A guest will message you because they cannot find the light switch that is directly in front of them. Systems help, but responsiveness is part of the job.

Is Airbnb still worth it in 2025?

It can be, but the game changed. Guests expect hotel level standards. Cities have tightened regulations. The market has more competition. Success now depends on running it like a real business, not a side hobby.