Airbnb hosts in Houston enjoy significant earnings potential, with an average annual revenue of $36,400. Certain neighborhoods, like the Fourth Ward, Second Ward, and Midtown, offer above-average monthly rental income and occupancy rates, making them particularly attractive for investors.
What's the Difference Between Short-Term Leases and Long-Term Leases? A short-term lease agreement lasts anywhere from three to six months, or can go month-to-month until the tenant decides to move out. Long-term leases are anything longer than six months and can go up to 15 months before needing to make a new lease.
Drawbacks of long-term leases are locking yourself in a rental rate, risking having a less-than-desirable tenant, and giving yourself too little flexibility.
Hotel Occupancy Tax In addition to adhering to the above rules, Houston imposes a 7% hotel occupancy tax on short-term rentals. This local tax is in addition to the state hotel occupancy tax of 6%, making the total tax rate 13% on STR income for hosts in Houston.
The good news from the outset is that Texas does not have a requirement at the state level for special permits for STR businesses. This means you do not need to apply for a special state-level permit or license specifically for your short term rental.
Long-term apartment leases are commonly set for a year, but some properties are now exploring longer lease options, such as 13, 15, or 24 months. These extended lease terms offer benefits for both tenants and landlords, providing stability in housing arrangements.
Zoning Rules: Most cities or other local jurisdictions have laws that set out the way you can use your home. These rules are often found in a zoning code, planning code, or city ordinances.
Early Termination Clause There might not be normal legal penalties, but there can be stipulations, such as paying two months of rent plus 30 days of notice provided to the landlord. Certain early termination clauses might also restrict the reasons this clause can be applied.
Before you move in, you'll need to prepare all of your necessary documents. This includes your driver's license or ID, Social Security Number, birth certificate, and more. You'll also need to provide proof of income and previous rental history.
Rental Screening Criteria A complete rental application. Rental history verifiable from un-biased sources. Sufficient income/resources. Two pieces of I.D. False or omitted information is grounds for denial. Criminal convictions for certain types of crimes will result in denial of your application.