Many homeowners maximize their property’s value by renting out their primary residence as a short-term rental. However, this process requires compliance with regulations to avoid penalties. Here are the essential steps to legally rent out your property.
1. Declare Your Rental to the Municipality
- Register your rental with the municipality if required (Official Procedures).
- Obtain a registration number in tourist cities and include it in your listing.
- Check the condominium regulations to ensure short-term rentals are permitted.
2. Comply with the Authorized Rental Duration
The law limits the short-term rental of a primary residence to 120 days per year. Beyond this, you must register it as a tourist rental and meet additional requirements.
3. Taxation and Declaring Rental Income
Declare your rental income and choose the appropriate tax regime:
- Micro-BIC: For annual income below €77,700, with a 50% tax deduction (More Information).
- Real Tax Regime: Mandatory above this threshold, allowing the deduction of expenses (renovations, loan interest, insurance, etc.).
Some municipalities also impose a tourist tax, which must be collected and paid to local authorities (Tourist Tax Guide).
4. Secure the Rental and Comply with Tenant Obligations
- Provide a furnished and fully equipped home, in accordance with legal standards.
- Obtain specific insurance to cover rental risks.
- Draft a rental agreement detailing the stay conditions, rent amount, and cancellation terms.
5. Promote Your Listing and Optimize Management
- List your property on specialized platforms (Airbnb, Abritel, Booking, etc.).
- Enhance your listing with professional photos and a detailed description.
- Secure bookings and payments to prevent fraud.
Conclusion
Renting out your primary residence as a short-term rental provides an excellent opportunity for additional income, provided you comply with the law. By working with professionals like AIR Property Provence (Discover our services), you can optimize your project and ensure its profitability with confidence.