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Short-term rentals are playing a bigger role in Portland’s housing scene. With sites like Airbnb and Vrbo getting more attention, a lot of property owners are asking themselves if renting out their place for a few days at a time is really worth it. But managing those kinds of rentals? That’s where things get tricky.

This blog takes a look at whether property management companies in Portland help with short-term rentals and what property owners need to know before jumping in.

What Counts as a Short-Term Rental in Portland?

In Portland, a short-term rental is defined as any stay that’s less than 30 days. This could mean someone renting out a spare room for a weekend or listing a condo for a few weeks each month.

Short-term rentals attract both tourists and business travelers looking for flexible accommodations. According to AirDNA, Portland had over 2,500 active short-term listings as of 2024. That’s a lot of competition—and a lot of noise if you’re trying to stand out.

Is Short-Term Renting in Portland Even Legal?

Here’s the catch: not every home can be legally listed for short stays. Portland requires owners to have a Type A or Type B permit, depending on the number of rooms rented and whether it’s the owner's primary residence. There are zoning laws, fire safety rules, and tax requirements that must be followed.

Neglecting any of these requirements could result in significant fines. That’s why many owners quickly find out that this isn’t just a “list it and forget it” side hustle.

Why Short-Term Rentals Are Harder Than They Look

At first glance, short-term rentals seem easier than long-term ones. More money per night, flexible scheduling, and no year-long leases, right? However, there’s a lot of work involved behind the scenes. 

• Guests come and go often, so cleaning and maintenance have to be done frequently.

• There are more listings to manage, and response time matters.

• Reviews have the power to determine the success or failure of your listing. 

• Constant communication, check-ins, and problem-solving is part of the deal.

Many property owners find out the hard way that they’ve taken on a second job.

Can Property Management Companies Actually Help?

Some can. However, not every property management company handles short-term rentals. Most specialize in long-term leases and traditional property care.

The ones that do handle short-term rentals often offer:

• Guest communication and booking management

• 24/7 emergency support

• Cleaning and turnover services

• Listing optimization and pricing strategy

• Permit compliance and city registration

Before signing with any company, it’s smart to ask about their experience with short-term rentals specifically. They should understand Portland’s local rules and have systems in place to manage the faster pace of guest turnover.

What to Ask Before Hiring a Manager for Short-Term Rentals

•  “Do you manage all guest interactions and bookings? 

• “Do you assist with obtaining city permits and handling tax filings?

• “What’s your process for cleaning between stays?”

• “How do you price the listing for weekends, holidays, or events?”

• “How many other short-term rental properties do you currently manage? 

Getting clear answers helps avoid future headaches. A good management company should be transparent and experienced in this specific type of rental.

Performance Properties, Inc.: Experts in Portland Rental Property Management

Performance Properties, Inc. is a trusted name in Portland rental property management. While their focus is on long-term residential properties, they offer guidance to owners curious about the short-term rental market and can connect them with resources when needed.

For those who prefer a steady income and less daily upkeep, their long-term rental services provide a reliable and stress-free option.