All Forum Posts by: Mariam Jalalzada

Max I’ve had has been 3 months - I would also hesitate renting for a year. Couple of things I’d do: have a FaceTime/zoom call with them so you get a chance to meet them and hear them, see if you can get the full name and google the person, I’d prolly even have them do a background check. One reason I can think of they want to do a year is perhaps because they didn’t find a year lease elsewhere or your prices are more reasonable and affordable. Have a strict cancellation policy in place for long terms. 

Michael, some really great points.  Thank you so much! It is a semi-attached row house that I live in. I am renting the basement. I set the monthly rate based on Airbnb's suggested rate (market rate) and the 20% discount per month. But I don't think that was smart and I'll do it differently for my next tenant/guest. 

For those who have tried Airbnb long term rentals (typical more than a month), how do you factor in the utility bills? Do you factor it in the monthly rent or do you charge the guest who is basically a short term tenant separately? Any suggestions - especially in regards to high value bills such as electricity during summer when air conditioning is on-  are highly appreciated. 

I have a finished basement that I want to rent for long-term tenants. Should I furnish it or put it up as is?

@Andrew Syrios, thanks much!

Great. Thanks a lot. I wouldn't have thought of Facebook's Marketplace. 

What has been your experience? Which platform has generated more response? 

Aaron, thanks for responding. That is very useful. I'll check these out. 

Its legal, and newly and nicely renovated, with full bath and rear door. However, it doesn't have a kitchen. 

Thanks a lot, David. You are right, the lease sample should be from DC. I have an idea of what clauses should go into the lease. I'll google for written samples specific to DC - in the meantime, if anyone in DC has one, please share with me!