Short-term rental (STR) mortgage loans are specialized financing options designed for investors purchasing or refinancing properties intended for platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, where stays are typically 30 days or less. Unlike traditional residential mortgages, STR loans often treat the property as an investment, qualifying based on its projected rental income rather than the borrower’s personal finances. This makes them ideal for real estate investors, but they come with higher down payments, interest rates, and specific requirements.