When it comes to maximizing profits as a landlord in Sarasota or Bradenton, one of the key decisions you’ll face is whether to offer your rental property furnished or unfurnished. Both approaches have distinct pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your investment goals, tenant market, and how much involvement you're prepared for.
At Relax Realty Group, Inc., we help landlords like you make strategic decisions to boost rental income—and this guide breaks down the real-world profit potential of furnished vs. unfurnished rentals in Sarasota.
Furnished vs. Unfurnished Rentals: What’s the Difference?
Furnished rentals come equipped with everything from sofas and beds to kitchenware and décor. These properties are move-in ready, ideal for short-term tenants, traveling professionals, and snowbirds.
Unfurnished rentals, on the other hand, are typically long-term leases that include only the essential appliances, giving tenants the flexibility to bring in their own furniture.
Sarasota’s Rental Market: Who’s Renting Furnished Properties?
Sarasota’s unique appeal as a seasonal destination and growing hub for remote workers makes it a prime market for furnished rentals, especially during snowbird season (November to April). Tourists, contract workers, and students attending nearby colleges often seek short-term, furnished accommodations.
This opens the door for landlords to charge higher monthly rates, potentially earning 20–40% more than they would for an unfurnished unit.
Profit Breakdown: Furnished Rentals
Pros:
Higher rental income: Daily or monthly rates are significantly higher.
Attract short-term tenants: Ideal for snowbirds, traveling nurses, or corporate renters.
Faster leasing during peak season: Ready-to-go properties are more attractive to short-term renters.
Cons:
Higher turnover: Furnished units often experience more frequent vacancies.
Increased maintenance and wear: More items to maintain, repair, or replace.
Initial furnishing cost: Expect to spend several thousand dollars to outfit the space attractively.
Example: A furnished 2-bedroom condo in downtown Sarasota may rent for $3,200/month short-term vs. $2,200/month unfurnished long-term.
Profit Breakdown: Unfurnished Rentals
Pros:
Longer lease terms: Tenants typically stay 12 months or more.
Lower initial costs: No need to buy or maintain furnishings.
Lower maintenance: Fewer items mean fewer things that can break or wear out.
Cons:
Lower rent price: You’ll typically collect less monthly compared to a furnished unit.
Slower to lease in seasonal markets: Unfurnished properties may sit longer in off-peak months.
Example: While a long-term tenant may bring in less monthly rent, lower turnover and fewer maintenance demands can mean more stable profits over time.
What’s Best for Sarasota & Bradenton Landlords?
It depends on your goals:
Go Furnished if you’re targeting short-term renters, seasonal visitors, or want to maximize revenue quickly—even if it comes with more effort and frequent turnover.
Stick to Unfurnished if you prefer stable, long-term leases, fewer management headaches, and predictable income over time.
At Relax Realty Group, we’ve seen success with both strategies in the Sarasota and Bradenton markets. Some landlords even mix models—offering a property furnished during peak season and switching to long-term, unfurnished leases in the off-season.
Before You Decide: Key Considerations
HOA Restrictions: Some communities in Sarasota may restrict short-term rentals.
Insurance Needs: Furnished properties require more comprehensive coverage.
Marketing Strategy: Furnished units require more polished, professional listings to stand out.
Furnished or Unfurnished? Sarasota Landlords, Here’s Where the Real Profit Lies
So—should you rent furnished or unfurnished? There’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The furnished route can yield higher profits but requires more active involvement and upfront investment. Unfurnished rentals offer consistency and less day-to-day work but often at lower monthly rates.
At Relax Realty Group, Inc., we can help you analyze your property, set the right price, and manage everything from staging to tenant screening. Whether you want to go fully furnished or stick with the basics, we’ll help you get the most from your investment in Sarasota or Bradenton.
Ready to explore your options? Contact us today to schedule a rental property consultation.