Best Guide to Cheap Temporary Housing Options
In need of cheap temporary housing? From last-minute relocations to budget-conscious travel, this no-nonsense guide cuts through the complexity to present practical and economical housing solutions. Learn about sublets, house-sitting, corporate options, and extended-stay hotels, each offering a different blend of benefits without breaking the bank. Dive in to find your ideal short-term accommodation that aligns with your financial and personal needs.
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Key Takeaways
Affordable temporary housing options range from staying with friends and family to booking through Airbnb, VRBO, subletting, house-sitting, and corporate housing, catering to diverse needs and budgets.
Extended stay hotels and corporate housing provide comfort and convenience with amenities tailored to longer stays, with the added benefit of integrating into local communities.
Making a temporary place feel like home is essential and can be achieved with personal touches, utilizing on-site amenities, and effective planning—ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
Budget-Friendly Temporary Housing Choices
Whether you’re between homes or just need a temporary retreat from renovation chaos, affordable short-term housing can be a lifesaver. With a variety of options available, you can find the perfect fit for your budget and lifestyle. Safety and cleanliness are key priorities, so you can focus on what matters most – feeling at home, even if it’s just for a short while.
Temporary housing isn’t just about a place to sleep; it’s about finding a space that caters to your unique needs. Some options to consider include:
Seeking a quiet, distraction-free environment for your work-from-home setup
Finding a pet-friendly space for you and your furry friend
Renting a private room or an entire home
The possibilities are endless.
Staying with Friends or Family
When it comes to affordable temporary housing, staying with friends or family often tops the list. It’s a cost-effective option that can save you a significant amount of money, especially for extended hotel stays. And, there’s the added bonus of flexibility – no contracts or long-term commitments to worry about.
However, it’s worth noting that this option might come with a trade-off: privacy. Sharing space with others may mean adjusting your daily routines and compromising on personal space. But if you’re comfortable with this, staying with loved ones can be a convenient and budget-friendly choice.
Airbnb and VRBO Deals
For those who prefer a more independent living arrangement, Airbnb and VRBO offer a plethora of options. From private rooms in shared houses to entire homes, these platforms accommodate a range of budgets and preferences. You can even score a great deal if you dig deep enough, as prices for the same property may vary between these two platforms.
One of the standout features of Airbnb is its flexibility. With flexible move-in and move-out dates, it simplifies the booking process for short-term stays. Additionally, they provide discounted rates for extended long-term stays too, enabling guests to make a single monthly payment with no extra fees. On the other hand, if you prefer booking an entire home, VRBO can be your go-to platform.
Subletting an Apartment
If you’re looking for a more structured living arrangement, subletting an apartment can be an ideal choice. It’s often a more affordable option for short-term stays than short term rentals, particularly for stays of a month or more.
But like all housing options, subletting comes with its challenges. You might have to share space with pre-existing roommates or navigate around the original tenant’s belongings. Plus, getting approval from the property owner could be a hurdle.
Nevertheless, with careful planning and clear communication, subletting can be a viable, cost-effective option for temporary housing.
House-Sitting Opportunities
Ever thought about house-sitting as a new job? Not only does it provide free temporary accommodation, but you might also earn some cash on the side. Websites like nomador.com, housesitter.com, and trustedhousesitter.com offer platforms to find such opportunities.
However, house-sitting often comes with responsibilities, like taking care of pets or maintaining the property. But if you’re open to these tasks, house-sitting can be an excellent way to save money on accommodation costs while experiencing life in a different neighborhood.
Extended Stay Hotels: Affordable Rates and Amenities
For those who prefer a more traditional approach, extended stay hotels offer a blend of comfort and convenience for business travelers on long trips. One such option is an extended stay hotel, which provides cost-effective solutions with amenities specifically tailored for extended stays, such as fully equipped kitchens, free Wi-Fi, and guest laundry facilities.
In addition to these amenities, extended stay hotels like InTown Suites offer customers a variety of room styles to choose from. Whether you prefer a traditional suite, an upgraded one with a renovated kitchen, or a premium suite with extra storage, you’ll find something that fits your needs and budget.
InTown Suites and Extended Stay America
Notably, InTown Suites positions itself as the most affordable national extended stay brand, consistently striving to offer the best value by monitoring competitor prices. With a commitment to affordability, it’s no surprise that they’ve gained popularity among those seeking budget-friendly extended stay options.
On the other hand, Extended Stay America is another excellent option for those seeking comfort and convenience short term stay. While specific features unique to these two brands haven’t been detailed, both strive to provide cost-effective solutions for extended stays, ensuring guests feel at home away from home.
Corporate Housing: A Cost-Effective Alternative
Corporate housing is another viable option for short-term stays, typically with suites reserved for stays of 30 days or more. Offering a fully furnished home or apartment, it’s perfect for those in need of a comfortable, home-like environment for an extended period.
Aside from being fully furnished, corporate housing provides a kitchen, essential living amenities, and high-speed wifi, making it ideal for traveling professionals. Being located in residential neighborhoods, it offers the unique benefit of being part of the local community, a feature less commonly found in hotels or serviced apartments.
Finding Corporate Housing Deals
Finding the perfect corporate housing deal is easier than you think! Online marketplaces like Corporate Housing by Owner (CHBO) specialize in matching property owners with corporate renters seeking short-term furnished rentals.
Corporate Housing By Owner offers user-friendly search options, allowing you to find furnished corporate housing by location, arrival, and departure dates. Plus, properties with the CHBO Complete quality seal guarantee the inclusion of all features expected in high-quality furnished corporate housing, ensuring you get the best value for your money.
Comparing Corporate Housing to Other Options
While corporate housing offers many benefits, it’s important to compare it with other temporary housing options to determine the best fit for you. Typically, corporate housing is reserved for stays of 30 days or more, making it ideal for longer-term needs.
One of the unique benefits of corporate housing is its location in residential neighborhoods. This allows you to integrate into the local community, giving you a sense of belonging that’s often lacking in other types of temporary accommodation. So, if you’re looking for a temporary home rather than just a place to stay, corporate housing might be the perfect choice!
Making Your Temporary Home Comfortable and Convenient
Once you’ve found your perfect temporary housing, it’s time to make it feel like home. Adding personal touches can transform any space into a comfortable and familiar environment, whether it’s incorporating framed photos, artwork, or small decorative items.
Adding plants or fresh flowers can uplift the mood, benefiting your mental health. Swapping out harsh lighting for warmer lightbulbs and strategic lighting with string lights or lamps can significantly boost the coziness of your temporary living space. And don’t forget the power of fragrance – scented candles, diffusers, or room sprays can greatly enrich the ambiance of your temporary home.
Packing Essentials
When it comes to packing for your temporary stay, think essentials. Bring items from home that make you feel comfortable and at ease – like a favorite bathrobe, throw blanket, or pillow. Don’t forget essential toiletries, appropriate wardrobe selections, and other convenient items to maintain your daily routines.
Another tip is to unpack immediately upon arrival. Using storage effectively, such as with packing cubes or bins, helps create a sense of control and home-like order. This way, you can settle in quickly and make your temporary house feel like a home.
Utilizing On-Site Amenities
On-site amenities are a major perk of temporary housing, and utilizing them can drastically enhance your stay. Whether it’s a housekeeping service, included breakfast, or on site laundry facilities, these amenities contribute to a comfortable and hassle-free stay without incurring additional cleaning fees.
For instance, corporate housing typically includes a full kitchen, TV, internet, and may offer access to a pool or fitness center. Similarly, extended-stay hotels offer amenities like fully equipped kitchens and free Wi-Fi. By making the most of these amenities, you can ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay.
Navigating the Temporary Housing Search Process
Finding the right temporary housing in a new city requires careful consideration and planning, especially when transitioning from rentals to permanent housing. Factors like your family situation, pets, accessibility, furniture, and budget all play a role in your decision.
Starting your search early can give you a head start, and extending your search beyond the internet by calling leasing managers can also be beneficial. Remember, it’s not just about finding a place to rent or stay but finding a place that feels like home.
Researching Online Platforms
Online platforms are a great starting point for your rental search. Websites like Zillow, Apartments.com, and Craigslist offer a wide range of short-term rental options, making it easier for you to compare prices and find the best deal.
Keep in mind that short-term rentals typically come with variable pricing, often costing more per month for shorter lease terms. Therefore, it’s essential to consider your stay duration and budget when researching these platforms and comparing monthly rates.
Seeking Recommendations from Friends and Colleagues
Don’t underestimate the power of personal networks when searching for cheap temporary housing options. Friends and colleagues who have been in similar situations can provide valuable insights and recommendations based on their experiences.
When seeking advice, be sure to share detailed search criteria. Information about:
your budget
preferred location
length of stay
any specific needs or preferences
This can help them provide tailored advice and research that fits your needs.
Summary
Exploring affordable temporary housing options doesn’t have to be overwhelming. With a wide variety of options available, from staying with friends or family to renting a fully furnished corporate apartment, you’re bound to find a solution that fits your needs and budget.
Remember, while each option has its pros and cons, the key is to choose the best option, a solution that ensures safety, comfort, and convenience. Whether you’re navigating a home renovation, relocating for work, or simply in need of a temporary home, you’re now equipped with the knowledge to make the right choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Need a place to stay for a month for free?
You can apply for emergency accommodation through social services or homeless programs. Alternatively, you could consider couch surfing or reaching out to community organizations for temporary stays. Stay hopeful and proactive in seeking support during this time.
How to find a sublet?
To find a sublet, you can follow these 9 steps: Check with your landlord or leasing office, check with the HR office at your job, post on message boards, expand your search beyond Craigslist, spread the word on social media, hold an open house, offer a discount, and cover some fees. Good luck!
What are the affordable options for temporary housing?
Consider staying with friends or family, finding Airbnb or VRBO deals, subletting an apartment, or house-sitting for affordable temporary housing options. Be creative and resourceful in seeking out these alternatives.
What should I consider when choosing temporary housing?
When choosing temporary housing, consider your budget, family situation, pets, accessibility, furniture, and the duration of your stay. This will help you make the best decision for your needs.
How can I make my temporary home more comfortable?
Make your temporary home more comfortable by incorporating personal items, adding plants or fresh flowers, rearranging furniture, and utilizing on-site amenities for convenience. Enjoy your cozier space!