Stop Putting Futons in Your Mid-Term Rental Property

Why You Should Never Put a Futon in Your Rental Property

After staying in countless rentals, I can’t stress this enough: having a futon in the living room instead of a couch is a terrible idea. If you’re thinking about it—stop now.

It’s as if a rental property or Airbnb influencer was pushing futons for some kind of kickback, given how many are out there. But here’s why we strongly advise against them:

1. Futons are Cheap — and it shows

While the low cost may be appealing, especially if you're trying to accommodate more guests, most futons these days are poorly made. You’ll end up replacing them more often than you'd like. Guaranteed.

2. They’re not built for everyday use

Futons simply aren’t designed to handle daily wear and tear. The fabrics are uncomfortable, they wear out quickly, and they rarely have arms. Plus, the seat is smaller than a regular couch. They’re just not practical.

3. Terrible for sleeping

Anyone who's tried sleeping on a futon knows the struggle. You can feel the metal poles, they flip easily, and there's always an awkward dip where the back meets the seat. Your tenants—and their guests—won’t enjoy it.

4. They lower your listing's value

If I see a futon in a rental listing, I’m only considering that place if all other options are exhausted. In this competitive market, a futon is a red flag. If you want to stay competitive, avoid futons or prepare to significantly lower your rent.

5. Futons make you look like a bad landlord

Let’s be honest: when renters see a futon, they may assume you’re cutting corners and trying to squeeze every last penny out of your property. It creates the perception that you’re more interested in profits than in maintaining a quality space. The psychology behind this is real.

I wish I were exaggerating, but the truth is that no one benefits from having a futon in the living room. Maybe in a bedroom or office—but that’s it.

Futon Alternatives That Add Value

Here are some alternatives to futons that will enhance your rental’s value and appeal:

• A Standard Couch
  You can’t go wrong with a classic three-seater sofa with washable fabric. It's practical and comfortable.

• A Sectional
  If you have the space, a sectional is a chef's kiss—absolute perfection. It can even increase your listing's value.

• A Sleeper Sofa
  Want extra sleeping space for guests? A sleeper sofa is a much better option than a futon and serves the same purpose.

• A Sofa with a Chaise
  If space is limited but you still want something cozy, a sofa with a chaise is a fantastic alternative. One of our favorite rentals had this setup, and we gave it a 10/10 (our dog loved it, too).

These options won’t drag down the value of your unit. They come in a range of prices to fit any budget and will leave your tenants happy, comfortable, and feeling at home.