If you’re considering renting out your property as a mid-term rental, it’s essential to understand the start-up costs involved. Our experience hosting on Airbnb has been fantastic so far, providing us with a steady side income! When we purchased our home, we specifically sought a property with a separate unit to generate additional rental income. Having stayed in Airbnbs ourselves, we thought it would be a fun and rewarding way to earn some extra money. We aimed for a property with at least four bedrooms, often featuring a mother-in-law suite or a small additional dwelling. Although we didn’t plan to rent it out immediately, a friend connected us with a tenant, and within months of becoming homeowners, we found ourselves landlords.
When our renters moved out in July 2018, we decided it was the perfect moment to try Airbnb hosting.
At first, we set aside $2,000 from rental income as an emergency fund for repairs and maintenance—separate from our family budget. When transitioning from long-term rentals to Airbnb, we planned to use this fund to furnish and refresh the space. We already owned some furniture and intended to purchase the rest secondhand, expecting to keep costs low.
Spoiler: It ended up costing about twice as much.
Looking back, there are only a few things we’d do differently, which we’ll share shortly.


Linens – $662
• Cotton sheets (queen) x 2: $60
• Microfiber sheets (queen): $20
• Mattress encasement: $26
• Pillow protectors: $12
• Pillow set: $17
• Quilts (x3), matching pillow shams (2 sets): $165
• Mattress pad, fleece blankets x2, sofa slipcover: $98
• 3 air mattresses, 2 twin blankets, fleece blankets: $84
• Pillow protectors, twin fleece, twin sheets: $100
• Fleece blanket, iron, ironing board cover: $65
• Extra twin sheet set: $15
Basics – $1,179
• Handrail, molding, screen kit, paint, painter’s tape, keys: $202
• Bathroom window reglaze: $168
• Additional screens, outdoor pest control: $30
• Aspen bark pads for cooler: $20
• Curtain brackets, command hooks: $24
• Blackout window shades: $286
• Bedroom wall paint: $78
• Closet door replacement: $22
• Fire extinguisher: $20
• Outdoor lights for road: $30
• Luggage rack: $20
• Oil-filled heater: $65
• Vacuum: $78
• Smart outdoor bulbs: $22
• Furnace repair call and parts: $114
Bathroom – $109
• Towel set: $20
• Bath towels, hand towel, shower liner, rings: $44
• Bath mat set: $15
• Ruffled shower curtain: $25
• Trash can: $5
Breakdown of Our Initial Expenses:
Furniture – $1,255
• Queen bed frame/headboard (used): $25
• Natural fiber mattress (new): $493
• Loveseat (used): $70
• Dresser, desk, 2 nightstands (used, refinished): $297
• Table, chairs, end table, comfy chair (used): $35
• TV and wall mount (new): $335
Decor – $313
• Wire baskets: $30
• Fabric for curtains, throw pillows: $49
• Welcome doormat: $8
• Curtain rods: $30
• Porch plants: $12
• Guest book, welcome binder: $7
• Bedroom and bathroom curtains: $80
• Welcome sign, wall shelf, decor: $43
• Frames: $22
• Mirrors: $9
• Local history book: $23
Consumables – $149
• Coffee filters, spices, tea: $13
• Dish soap, hand soap, toilet paper, paper towels, trash bags: $45
• Instant oatmeal: $25
• Shampoo, conditioner, body wash, coffee: $66
Kitchen – $265
• Silverware tray, large utensils: $17
• Cookie sheet, Pyrex dishes (thrift store): $8
• Salt shakers, cutting boards, can opener, knives: $23
• Mugs, plates, kettle (thrift): $10
• Glasses: $10
• Hot pads, dish towels: $8
• Coffee maker, dishes, silverware, wine glasses, toaster, slow cooker: $115
• Pitcher, dish mat, wooden spoons, peeler: $29
• Wine opener, utensil holder, paper towel holder: $35
• Griddle: $10
Total: $3,932
(This was for a one-bedroom setup in 2018. For a typical 3-bedroom, 2-bathroom property, expect to add approximately $3,000 to $4,000 for furnishings and essentials.)
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What We Would Do Differently:
• Choose Microfiber Sheets Over Cotton:
Cotton sheets were costly and difficult to manage due to wrinkling. Microfiber sheets are easier to maintain and look better for guests. Since our rental isn’t high-end, microfiber is a practical choice.
• Shop Smarter for Furniture:
We purchased some furniture at a boutique, which was pricier than thrift stores or online marketplaces. We were in a hurry and paid a premium to save time. Next time, we’d be more patient and look for bargains, ensuring we don’t pay more than resale value.
• Paint Just Once:
We repainted the bedroom multiple times, which added cost and effort. It’s best to pick a color you love and commit to it from the start.
Was It Worth It?
Absolutely! The space looks fantastic, and bookings have been strong since we launched. We recouped our initial investment within three months. This first year, we’re keeping prices competitive to gauge demand, with plans to gradually increase rates as we understand market trends.
Interested in Mid-Term Renting?
If you’re thinking about renting your property mid-term, send us a message! Our expert can guide you through the entire process. We currently have 3- and 5-bedroom furnished setups available.
Our Services Include:
• Full setup with furniture — we handle everything for you
• Property booking management
• 3-bedroom furniture packages ready to go
• Market evaluation of your property
Contact us for a consultation:
Call or text: (310) 220-0037
Let us help you make your mid-term rental venture a success!
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Explore our elegant, fully furnished mid-term rental setups.
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1311 W Cara Dr, Anaheim, CA 92805
(310) 220-0037