The challenges of renting out your property – How Cityus can help

Ready to rent? Your property, our expertise – a winning combination

Renting out a property can be a fantastic source of income, but it comes with its fair share of challenges. From navigating complex legal requirements to securing reliable tenants, property owners often juggle multiple responsibilities. A key decision is whether to rent the property furnished or unfurnished, which determines the type of tenants you attract—short-term guests or long-term residents—and influences factors like maintenance demands, rental yield, and occupancy stability.

Beyond this, landlords must contend with fluctuating market demand, unexpected maintenance issues, and evolving regulations, all of which can make property management stressful and time-consuming.

That’s where Cityus comes in. Whether you’re renting out your property for the first time or looking for a hassle-free way to manage your investment, our expert team is here to help. We handle everything—from tenant screening and property maintenance to pricing strategies and compliance—so you can enjoy the benefits of your rental without the headaches.

But we don’t just manage properties; we maximise their potential. With an extensive network of corporate clients and international partners, we leverage strategic marketing, dynamic pricing, and a seamless guest experience to attract the right tenants and keep your property booked year-round.

Short-term vs long-term rentals: rules & requirements

One of the first decisions property owners face is whether to rent their property on a short-term or long-term basis. Many cities impose strict regulations on short-term lets, particularly those listed on platforms like Airbnb, to control tourism impact and protect the housing market. Some areas require special permits, limit the number of nights a property can be rented, or ban short-term rentals altogether. Understanding these rules is essential to avoid penalties and ensure your rental strategy aligns with local laws.

Long-term rentals, on the other hand, offer a more stable income stream and often come with fewer regulatory hurdles. While tenancy laws vary by location, they typically include tenant rights, rent control policies, and lease agreement regulations. Property owners must comply with legal requirements, such as security deposit rules, maintenance obligations, and eviction procedures.

A serviced apartment company can help property owners navigate both short-term and long-term rental landscapes by providing expert guidance and comprehensive management services. With in-depth knowledge of local rental laws, they ensure properties meet all legal obligations, from obtaining necessary permits to adhering to safety standards.

At Cityus, we have undergone strict ISAAP certification for nearly 10 years, reinforcing our commitment to quality and professionalism in the serviced apartment industry. ISAAP ensures that accommodation providers meet the highest standards of safety, cleanliness, security, and quality. By partnering with an accredited provider like Cityus, property owners can confidently navigate rental compliance while delivering a premium experience to tenants.

Local regulations & compliance

Successfully managing a rental property requires more than just securing tenants—it also involves navigating legal and regulatory frameworks to avoid costly mistakes. Landlords must comply with various laws and policies, which differ significantly depending on location and rental type.

Before renting out a property, it’s crucial to understand local zoning laws, tenancy regulations, and licensing requirements. Some areas impose strict rules on rental properties, such as requiring landlord registration, safety certifications, or compliance with specific building codes. Additionally, tax implications vary depending on whether the property is rented on a short-term or long-term basis, with some jurisdictions imposing higher taxes on short-term lets or requiring VAT registration for furnished holiday rentals.

As regulations continue to evolve—particularly around short-term rentals and tenant protections—it’s essential to stay informed. Partnering with a professional property management company can help ensure compliance and prevent legal complications.

Lease agreements: protecting landlords and tenants

A well-drafted lease agreement is essential to safeguarding the rights and responsibilities of both landlords and tenants. This legally binding document should clearly outline key terms such as rental duration, payment schedules, maintenance obligations, deposit conditions, and specific rules regarding property use.

Lease agreements should also comply with local tenancy laws, ensuring they include the correct notice periods, tenant protections, and clauses for potential early termination. In furnished rentals, an inventory checklist detailing the condition of furniture and appliances can help avoid disputes over damages.

Working with serviced apartment professionals ensures lease agreements are professionally drafted, legally compliant, and tailored to the type of rental—helping to streamline operations and minimise risk.

Operational & management challenges: the demands of running a rental property

Owning a rental property is not just a financial investment—it’s an ongoing commitment requiring time, effort, and careful management. Landlords must handle everything from maintenance and tenant relations to furnishing and daily operations.

One of the biggest challenges is property maintenance. Ensuring regular upkeep and responding to urgent repairs is essential for maintaining the property’s value and tenant satisfaction. Additionally, finding reliable tenants is crucial, as poor tenant selection can lead to damages, non-payment, or contract breaches. Even with careful screening, dealing with disputes, late payments, or complaints can be stressful and time-consuming.

For landlords managing their own properties, the time commitment can be overwhelming. Between responding to tenant requests, arranging maintenance, and handling administrative tasks, property management can feel like a full-time job.

Partnering with a serviced apartment company removes the burden of day-to-day management. These companies have dedicated teams to handle maintenance, tenant relations, and marketing, ensuring landlords enjoy passive income without the hassle.

Standing out in a competitive rental market

The rental market in major European cities is highly competitive, and property owners must work strategically to attract tenants while maintaining profitability. Simply listing a property is not enough—landlords need a strong marketing approach to ensure occupancy remains high.

Key challenges include competing with similar properties, setting the right price, and maintaining an appealing listing. Without professional photography, compelling descriptions, and dynamic pricing strategies, a rental can easily be overlooked. Seasonal demand fluctuations further complicate matters, making it essential to adjust marketing efforts and pricing accordingly.

At Cityus, we use Matterport virtual tours to offer potential tenants an immersive 3D experience of our properties, setting them apart from standard listings. This builds trust and confidence in the accommodation before tenants even arrive. We also leverage multiple communication channels, optimising listings across major platforms, implementing dynamic pricing, and managing online reputation to maintain a strong digital presence.

Maximising your rental success with Cityus

Renting out a property can be highly rewarding, but it also presents numerous challenges—from legal compliance and tenant management to marketing and maintenance. Without the right expertise, property owners risk unnecessary stress, financial loss, and legal complications.

By partnering with a serviced apartment company like Cityus, landlords can eliminate these burdens while maximising their rental’s performance. Our expert team takes care of every aspect of property management, from ensuring legal compliance and optimising pricing to securing quality tenants and maintaining high occupancy rates. With our experience, network, and commitment to excellence, we make property ownership effortless and profitable.

Whether you’re renting out your first property or looking to streamline an existing portfolio, Cityus is here to help you navigate the complexities of the rental market—so you can focus on enjoying the returns of your investment without the hassle. Are you ready to take things to the next step? Get your valuation today, share your property details with us, and let’s plan a visit to your apartment with our expert team!