Who Manages Fully Furnished Housing Units?

Property management companies are primarily responsible for managing fully furnished housing units in the United States. These companies handle a range of tasks, including tenant acquisition, maintenance, rent collection, and property upgrades, to ensure that the units are well-maintained and attractive to potential renters. According to the National Association of REALTORS (NAR), approximately 70% of rental units in the U.S. are managed by professional property management firms.

The reason for this high involvement of property management companies in fully furnished housing units lies in the complexities associated with managing such properties. Fully furnished units require a different approach to maintenance and tenant relations compared to unfurnished units. For instance, the management of furniture, appliances, and other amenities requires specialized knowledge and resources. Additionally, the demand for fully furnished housing units has been growing, particularly among short-term renters, corporate transferees, and students, which has further increased the need for professional management.

Data from the American Housing Survey (AHS) indicates that the number of fully furnished housing units has been on the rise. In 2019, there were approximately 4.6 million fully furnished housing units in the U.S., up from 4.2 million in 2015. This growth is attributed to the increasing demand for temporary housing solutions, as well as the preference for convenience and comfort among renters. Property management companies have adapted to this trend by offering a variety of fully furnished units, which they manage effectively to meet the needs of their clients.