Short-Term Rental vs Long-Term Rental in Halifax?
Thinking of renting out your home in Halifax? Choosing between short-term rentals and long-term rentals can be the key to maximizing your income and minimizing headaches. Here’s what every property owner should know before making the call.
📍 Introduction
In today’s evolving rental market, Halifax property owners are exploring different ways to generate income from their homes. The two most common strategies? Short-Term Rentals (STR) — think Airbnb, weekend stays, or month-long corporate housing — and Long-Term Rentals — typically leases of 6 months or more.
Each approach comes with its own benefits, challenges, and income potential. At Haligo, we’ve worked with owners on both sides of the spectrum, and we’re here to help you choose what’s best for your space, your goals, and your lifestyle.
🕒 What Is a Short-Term Rental?
A short-term rental is usually defined as a rental period of less than 30 days, although in Halifax it can stretch up to 90 days depending on local laws. These are ideal for:
Tourists visiting Halifax
Business travelers
Relocating professionals
Families needing temporary housing
✅ Pros:
Higher income per night (especially in peak seasons)
More flexibility (block dates when needed)
Personal use possible (you can stay there when it’s not booked)
⚠️ Considerations:
Requires frequent cleaning & turnover
Involves guest communication
May need local licensing/compliance
Haligo handles all of this — guest messaging, check-ins, cleanings, and more.
📅 What Is a Long-Term Rental?
A long-term rental typically lasts 6 to 12 months or more, with tenants signing a lease. It’s ideal for:
Students
Local workers
Families looking for stable housing
✅ Pros:
Stable, predictable income
Lower maintenance effort (fewer turnovers)
Less day-to-day management
⚠️ Considerations:
Lower monthly income than STR
Harder to access your property mid-lease
Legal obligations and tenant rights may be more complex
💰 Which One Makes More Money?
It depends on the location, seasonality, and demand. Here’s a simplified comparison:
| Type | Average Monthly Revenue (Halifax)* | Flexibility | Management Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Short-Term | $2,500–$4,000 | High | High (Haligo helps!) |
| Long-Term | $1,500–$2,200 | Low | Low/Medium |
*These are sample figures based on Haligo-managed properties in 2024–2025.
🎯 Which Is Right for You?
Ask yourself:
Do you want higher income or less hassle?
Do you live nearby or need help managing guests?
Do you want to occasionally use the property yourself?
Short-Term = more work, more reward.
Long-Term = set it and forget it.
With Haligo, you can succeed with either — we handle the heavy lifting.
✅ Haligo’s Hybrid Approach
Not sure which one to choose? Why not both?
Some Haligo clients rent short-term in summer and switch to long-term in winter. Others offer mid-term corporate stays. We help you build a strategy that works.
