Have you ever been scrolling online searching for service apartment and you are seeing words like shortlet, Airbnb, or furnished apartment — and wondered,
“Wait, are these all the same thing as a service apartment?”
You’re not alone.
So many people get confused because different names are used for the same type of accommodation — depending on who’s talking about it, where you are, and how long you’re staying.
Let’s clear up the confusion together.
What Exactly Is a Service Apartment?
A service apartment is simply a fully furnished apartment available for short or long stays — with hotel-style services like cleaning, Wi-Fi, and maintenance.
Think of it as a home with hotel convenience — perfect for travelers, business people, families, and even couples who want privacy and space.
Now that we know what it is…
Let’s talk about what else it’s called
What Are the Other Names People Use?
Here are some of the most common names you’ll hear for service apartments:
- Shortlet apartment
- Furnished apartment
- Service apartment
- Serviced accommodation
- Corporate apartment
- Airbnb
- Aparthotel
They all describe the same idea:
a comfortable, furnished place you can rent for a short or flexible period — with services included.
Why So Many Names?
Simple — different audiences use different words.
- In Nigeria, most people say shortlet (especially in Lagos and Abuja).
- Business travelers might say corporate apartments.
- Foreign guests or tourists often just say Airbnb.
- And property investors or real estate professionals prefer service apartment.
It’s the same thing — just a different name, depending on who’s asking.
Are Shortlets and Service Apartments the Same Thing?
Yes — most of the time, they mean the same thing.
A shortlet is simply a service apartment rented for a short stay — days, weeks, or a few months.
So every shortlet is a service apartment, but not every service apartment is always a shortlet (some can be rented long-term).
What’s the Difference Between Airbnb and a Service Apartment?
This one confuses a lot of people!
But here’s the truth 👇🏽
- Airbnb is a platform — an app or website where people list service apartments or vacation rentals.
- A service apartment is the type of property listed there.
So when you book a place on Airbnb in Lagos or Abuja, you’re most likely booking — yes — a service apartment.
Which Term Do Guests and Hosts Prefer?
So, what’s another name for a service apartment?
Quite a few, actually — shortlet, furnished apartment, serviced accommodation, Airbnb, corporate apartment…
But at the heart of it all, they all mean one thing:
A comfortable, fully furnished home — with the convenience of hotel service and the privacy of your own space.
Whether you’re booking one for a trip or planning to start your own shortlet business, now you know the language. 🌿
And if you ever need help setting one up — that’s literally what I do every day.
Can You Use These Names Interchangeably?
Absolutely.
You can say shortlet, serviced apartment, or furnished apartment — people will understand what you mean.
Just choose the term that fits your audience.
For example:
- Talking to guests on Instagram → say shortlet
Writing on your business website → say service apartment
Final Thoughts
So, what’s another name for a service apartment?
Quite a few, actually 😅 — shortlet, furnished apartment, serviced accommodation, Airbnb, corporate apartment…
But at the heart of it all, they all mean one thing:
A comfortable, fully furnished home — with the convenience of hotel service and the privacy of your own space.
Whether you’re booking one for a trip or planning to start your own shortlet business, now you know the language. 🌿
And if you ever need help setting one up — that’s literally what I do every day.