Best Layouts for Short-Term Rentals: Studio vs 1 Bedroom

Studio vs 1‑Bedroom: Best Layout for Short‑Term Rentals

Choosing between a studio and a one-bedroom for short‑term rental is about matching guest expectations, management effort, and revenue goals. This guide helps owners and investors decide which layout fits their market and how to set up the apartment for steady bookings. 🏠

Main differences at a glance

• Space and privacy: studios are open-plan; one‑bedrooms have a separate sleeping room.
• Target guests: solo travelers and couples often prefer studios; families and business travelers often choose one‑bedrooms.
• Setup and turnover: studios are typically cheaper and faster to furnish and clean.
• Pricing potential: one‑bedrooms can command higher nightly rates when positioned for comfort.

Why a studio can be the right choice ✅

• Lower initial investment: furnishing and repairs are simpler.
• High turnover: studios work well in busy tourist areas and city centers where shorter stays are common.
• Reduced utility and upkeep costs.

Practical tip: emphasize clever zoning — rugs, shelving, and lighting can create separate 'areas' without walls, improving guest perception of space.

Why choose a one‑bedroom ✅

• Greater privacy and perceived value — attractive to families or longer stays.
• Opportunity to charge more per night and target a more premium segment.
• Better fit for guests who need a dedicated workspace or quiet sleeping area.

Practical tip: add versatile furniture (e.g., sofa bed), good storage and clear separation between living and sleeping zones to keep listings appealing.

Match layout to location and demand 📍

• Central nightlife and business districts: studios often perform well with short‑stay visitors.
• Residential, coastal, or family‑friendly neighborhoods: one‑bedrooms can attract longer bookings and repeat guests.
• Market check: review local listings to see which format sees higher occupancy and better reviews in your area.

Pricing and revenue approach 💸

• Studios usually offer steady demand but lower average nightly rates; success comes from occupancy and turnover.
• One‑bedrooms let you target higher rates and longer stays, which may reduce turnover costs.

Recommendation: start with a baseline price and adjust seasonally. Offer discounts for longer stays and small perks (early check‑in, welcome pack) to increase occupancy.

Staging and photography — make the listing sell 📸

• Photos should be clean, bright, and show how the space is used.
• For studios, highlight functional zoning and storage solutions. For one‑bedrooms, show the private bedroom and the living area clearly.
• Keep décor neutral with a few warm accents to appeal broadly.

Management tips and guest experience 🤝

• Fast communication and simple check‑in increase positive reviews.
• Provide quality linens, a well-equipped kitchen, and clear house rules.
• If you operate multiple units, standardize cleaning and inventory lists by layout type to reduce mistakes.

Quick checklist for owners

• New to rentals? Start with a studio in an active area to minimize complexity.
• Targeting higher margins? Invest in a one‑bedroom and position it for comfort and longer stays.
• Essential pre-listing checklist: safe locks → comfortable bed → spotless bathroom → clear photos → transparent policies.

Conclusion: which is better? 🎯

Both layouts can be profitable. Choose a studio for lower initial costs and faster turnover; choose a one‑bedroom to target higher rates and more discerning guests. The best pick depends on your market, management capacity, and financial goals.

Need help choosing or launching a short‑term rental in Georgia? We can assess location, guest demand and prepare the unit for bookings. Contact BuyHome for personalized advice and support: https://buyhome.ge/en/search