Temporary Housing Basics

It has been estimated that one in five American families move each year. But in many of those cases, the first destination is not always their last.

Whether moving by choice or because your company requires you to do so, temporary housing is often necessary to bridge the gap between arrival in a new community and finding a permanent residence. This interval can extend from a few days to several months, so any short-term move needs to be planned accordingly.

For individuals and families seeking temporary housing advice there are three main options: regular hotels, extended stay hotels and rental homes/apartments.

Regular Hotels

Regular hotels are good options when you need temporary housing for just a few days. Regular hotels offer full service amenities such as restaurants and daily housekeeping. Although convenient for shorter stays, these added extras can take their toll on your relocation budget over a long period of time.

Extended Stay Hotels

Extended stay hotels should be considered when you require a longer time frame for your stay. Extended stay lodging provides a more home-like environment by offering full kitchens and on-site laundry facilities. There are no leases to sign, no utilities to establish and studios come fully furnished.

Rental Homes and Apartments

Depending on family size and budget, rental homes and apartments are viable options for those who need to stay a month or longer and don’t mind signing a lease or arranging for utilities, telephone and cable TV service.

Questions to Ask Yourself

Whether researching the move on your own or working with a reputable real estate company or considering the advice of a relocation service to find temporary housing, you’ll need to answer several questions:

  • What type of temporary housing best suits your needs? Are you single and only require a studio or do you have a family and require multiple bedrooms?
  • What price are you willing to pay?
  • What would be a suitable location? If children are coming along, should a school be located nearby?
  • What amenities will be required? Would you like a pool? An exercise room?
  • What about services like day care or housekeeping?
  • Is the company paying for the move and, if so, what are the relocation benefits and costs that are covered?

Housing Market Challenges

Tight housing markets, such as New York City and San Francisco, can present an especially difficult challenge when looking for temporary housing. In large metropolitan areas where your options are limited and prices are at a premium, extended stay hotels are a real economic value for those needing temporary lodging. However, if your situation requires that you look for a rental property, it may be prudent to seek out newer properties whose owners, sitting on mortgages and in need of cash flow, might be willing to negotiate a short-term lease. Negotiating is part of the game and it never hurts to throw out a price before you rush to the dotted line.

Also, open up your options by considering different neighborhoods, increasing the likelihood of finding a suitable property at a price you can afford. And covering your bases with research, advice and personal feedback can only help to insure that your first experience will be a good one.