Tips: Personal use of a vacation rental – what to consider
Using your vacation property for your own holidays
A vacation property can serve as both your own holiday retreat and a source of income, if it is properly set up, managed, and used. If you want to use your holiday apartment or holiday home not only for guests but also for your own vacations, there are a number of aspects to consider, ranging from legal requirements to furnishing and guest comfort. Here you will learn what is important when it comes to the personal use of rental property.
1. What are the advantages of renting out and personally using a vacation property?
Owning a holiday home or vacation apartment allows you to benefit both from tourist rentals and from personal use:
You can enjoy regular or even spontaneous holidays in your own vacation home
You can furnish the property according to your personal taste and needs so that you feel completely at home.
Personal use helps you save on the rental costs you would otherwise pay for holiday accommodation elsewhere.
During periods when you are not using your holiday home, you can generate income through tourist rentals. This helps cover ongoing costs or even finance the property itself.
Additional advantages when personally using your holiday home or apartment:
You regularly check your property yourself.
You can assess the condition and quality of the furnishings firsthand.
You can handle or supervise repairs, cleaning, and other maintenance tasks more easily.
You can further enhance the attractiveness of your vacation rental for guests through practical improvements and personal recommendations about the surrounding holiday destination.
2. What should you consider when personally using your vacation home?
Tax and legal regulations
The tax classification of a holiday property as a second home depends on usage, location, and frequency of stays, and should be checked individually.
Important points to consider:
Clarify whether the property is classified as a second home for tax purposes.
Possible second home tax obligations.
Required insurance (e.g., building, contents, liability).
Clear rules for rental periods and periods of personal use of a rental property.
If you are unsure how many days you can use a rental property for personal use without affecting tax deductions, consult a tax advisor.
Tip: Clarify legal and tax requirements before renting your property.
3. How do I furnish my holiday home so that everyone feels comfortable?
If you want to both personally enjoy your holiday home and rent it out successfully, it’s important to ensure that guests feel comfortable. Choose an interior design that appeals to a wide audience.
Your holiday home or apartment should include:
High-quality, complete furnishings
Adequate amounts of dishes, cutlery, and linens based on maximum guest capacity
Common household items - even if you may not need all of them during personal stays
A lockable storage room for linens and a well-stocked supply of cleaning materials
Detailed furnishing tips can be found in the article “Furnishing a Holiday Home or Vacation Apartment - What Should You Consider?” [Link]
4. Seek professional support!
Benefit from having a strong partner by your side when renting out your holiday home or vacation apartment. With over 60 years of experience, Interhome knows exactly what guests need and want. We offer:
A non-binding assessment of your property's rental potential
Personal advice on furnishings and equipment
Support with professional photos for optimal presentation of your vacation property
If desired, we also take care of:
Cleaning and maintenance of your vacation home
Key handover and guest support
Practical extras such as baby beds or highchairs
Are you interested in working with us?
Simply complete the contact form and we will get in touch with you!
FAQ: Personal use of a vacation rental
Can I use my vacation apartment or house at any time?
Yes, as long as there are no contractual restrictions. Personal use periods must be blocked in the calendar to avoid overlapping with guest bookings.
Are there tax limits on personal use?
Yes. To fully deduct costs, the apartment must be predominantly rented to guests. If personal use outweighs rental use, tax benefits may be reduced. This relates directly to what is considered personal use of a vacation rental property.
Do I need to report personal use or enter it in the calendar?
If working with an agency, you must report personal-use periods so the booking calendar can be updated. For self-managed rentals, it is sufficient to block the dates.
What happens to existing bookings if I want to use the property spontaneously?
Existing guest bookings take priority. Last-minute cancellations can lead to costs, frustration, or contract penalties.
Which costs count as private expenses during personal use?
Operating costs and non-deductible expenses during your stay are considered private and must be separated for tax purposes.
Want to find out more?
Let us advise you free of charge and without obligation. We would be happy to show you your personal rental potential and together work out the right offer for you. Just reach out by filling out the Contact Form.
