Short term rentals utilities included?

[Samantha McCormick]

I'm just starting out renting our home to short term (3 months) renters while we're out of state on work assignments. What is usually included in rent? I have a potential tenant who feels utilities should be included. We're in Kirkland (S. Juanita), WA (just east of Seattle). The rent is pretty low ($1,900/mo for an entire 2,000 sq ft home Would love some advice or "here's what I did" personal experience. Thanks a lot in advance. 

[Nathan Gesner]

Quote from @Samantha McCormick:

I'm just starting out renting our home to short term (3 months) renters while we're out of state on work assignments. What is usually included in rent? I have a potential tenant who feels utilities should be included. We're in Kirkland (S. Juanita), WA (just east of Seattle). The rent is pretty low ($1,900/mo for an entire 2,000 sq ft home Would love some advice or "here's what I did" personal experience. Thanks a lot in advance. 

I just did a quick search of rentals in Kirland with 1,750 - 2,500 sq.ft. The lowest price is over $3,000 and the average is around $4,000. Those homes do not include utilities and are probably one-year rentals. A month-to-month rental is typically priced higher, which means you may be worth $4,000 - $6,000 per month.

I highly recommend you research your market and understand the value of what you are renting. If you charge below market rate, you will attract low-quality renters who are more likely to trash the property and make your life miserable.