Rent a second home for the year

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29/5/2025

Put in long rental Duration sa second home allows you to generate additional income while optimizing your real estate investment. However, Renting out your second home involves specific legal and fiscal obligations, especially in municipalities with more than 200,000 inhabitants where restrictions may apply. This approach requires good planning and a thorough knowledge of the rules in force.

As owner of a second home, you must choose the type of lease that is right for your property, respect local regulations and anticipate tax implications. This guide explains in detail how rent your second home in full compliance and maximize your profitability.

infographique sur les choses à penser quand on veut louer sa résidence secondaire
What you need to remember to rent a second home for the year

The Rules for Renting a Second Home

Before Renting out your second home, it is essential to understand the obligations that come with it. This type of rental differs from renting a main residence and is governed by specific regulations. Between the administrative procedures and the drafting of the contract, each step must be carefully respected to avoid possible sanctions or disputes.

One second home is a home occupied on an occasional basis. So he is not considered a second home main. For rent a second home for the year, certain administrative and legal procedures must be respected.

Administrative procedures and regulations

The rental of a second home is not subject to the same rules as that of a main residence. Some administrative obligations may apply, depending on where the property is located. Owners should be attentive to local requirements, especially in highly urbanized areas, where specific restrictions may apply.

1. Declaration and Authorization for Change of Use

Les municipalities with more than 200,000 inhabitants have put in place restrictions to regulate the rental of second homes. The aim is to ensure a sufficient supply of housing for permanent residents. Before renting, it is therefore imperative to check whether a authorization to change use is necessary. This process is generally done At the town hall, where specific forms have to be filled out. In some municipalities with more than 200,000 inhabitants, a change authorization Use may be required before you can rent your property as a second home. This process, supervised by the ALUR law, aims to regulate the real estate market and avoid a shortage of homes intended for primary residence. The application for authorization must be submitted At the town hall.

In case of non-compliance with this obligation, you risk financial and administrative sanctions. It is therefore essential to be well informed about local rules before Renting out your second home.

2. Drafting the Rental Agreement

One rental contract well-written is essential to ensure legal security for landlord and tenant. It must specify several key elements, such as the duration of the lease, the amount of rent, the expenses, as well as the respective obligations of the two parties. According to the type of rental, the terms of the contract may vary, in particular depending on the applicable tax regime. One rental contract is mandatory to oversee the relationship between the lessor and the tenant. The choice of type of rental is essential and must be specified in the lease:

  • Empty location : renewable three-year lease.
  • Furnished rental : renewable one-year lease, including a minimum amount of furniture defined by law.
  • Furnished tourist accommodation : intended for seasonal rentals, limited to 120 days per year.

This contract must also specify the obligations of both parties, in particular with regard to the maintenance of the property and the respect of notice periods in the event of early termination.

To find out more about To rent out your second home, read this article.

Fiscal and Financial Implications

Rent a second home also involves fiscal obligations. The income from this rental must be declared and is subject to specific taxation. The applicable tax regime depends on type of rental and the choice of the owner concerning the method of declaring his rental income.

1. Rental Income Declaration

The revenue generated by the long rental The duration of a second home must be declared to taxes. Depending on the regime chosen, the reporting procedures and the amount of taxes may vary. Owners must therefore anticipate the fiscal impact of their rental activity in order to optimize their profitability while remaining in compliance with tax regulations. Revenues from the long rental duration must be declared to taxes. The owner can opt for two tax regimes:

  • Micro-land : applicable if rental income is less than €15,000 per year. This regime allows you to benefit from a flat rate reduction of 30%.
  • Real regime : allows you to deduct real expenses (work, loan interest, condominium fees, etc.).

En drawing up a 50% lump-sum allowance, the lessor may benefit from a tax reduction in certain cases, in particular for furnished rentals under the Micro-Bic.

2. Take advantage of tax advantages

Rent a second home can offer certain tax advantages, especially for furnished rentals. It is possible to benefit from a 50% lump-sum reduction under certain conditions, which makes it possible to reduce the amount of taxable income. By opting for the Real regime, the owner of a second home can also deduct several expenses related to the maintenance of the property and the work carried out. There are several ways to maximize rental income and benefit from tax advantages:

  • Tax abatement : for furnished rentals, the Micro-Bic allows a reduction of 50% on the income received.
  • Deduction of expenses : by opting for the real regime, expenses related to maintenance, insurance and work can be deducted from taxes.
  • Exemption from housing tax : under certain conditions, it is possible to be exempt from tax of residence on a second home.

The Advantages and Constraints of Renting a Second Home

Before embarking on the renting out your second home, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of this approach. While renting for the year makes a property profitable, it also involves certain constraints that must be anticipated.

1. Benefits

Rent a second home has several advantages, especially in financial terms. This solution allows you to receive additional income while optimizing the use of real estate that could otherwise remain unoccupied for a large part of the year.

  • Generate a steady income.
  • Making an unoccupied property profitable.
  • Potential reduction in expenses thanks to renting.
  • Possibility of amortizing expenses related to maintenance work and renovations.

2. Constraints

However, renting your second home also has its challenges. Rental management requires time and may involve additional costs. It is also essential to comply with local regulations, especially in large cities where restrictions may limit the duration of the rental or impose specific administrative formalities.

  • Need for effective rental management.
  • Compliance with local regulations on change of use.
  • Possible restrictions depending on Type of population over 200,000 where the property is located.
  • Taxation heavier than for a main residence.

Conclusion

Rent a second home for the year is an interesting opportunity, but requires a thorough knowledge of legal and fiscal obligations. Before Renting out your second home, inquire At the town hall and consult an expert to optimize your profitability. Taking into account local regulations and tax advantages will allow you to rent with complete peace of mind and avoid unpleasant surprises.

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❓ FAQ

1. Can you rent a second home without permission?

In some municipalities with more than 200,000 inhabitants, a change authorization of use is required. It is important to be informed At the town hall.

2. What is the maximum rental period for a furnished tourist accommodation?

La ALUR law limit this duration to 120 days per year.

3. What are the tax advantages for renting a second home?

One 50% lump-sum reduction is possible for furnished rentals under the regime of Micro-Bic. It is also possible to deduct certain expenses by opting for the real regime.

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