You’ve signed your contract for your first travel assignment. Many thoughts quickly flash through your brain: What do I do next? Where am I going to do that drug test they mentioned? I need to turn in my notice at work. How will I manage to pack for three months away from home? Then there’s the most daunting thought – Where will I live?
For many travelers, especially first-time travelers, finding housing can seem overwhelming. As a recruiter, I’ve talked with many nurses who have used a variety of tactics to find their temporary housing. While there are endless tips and tricks for finding a place to live, there are three must-knows before hitting the road for your assignment.
Not all housing is created equal
The task of finding an apartment doesn’t seem so bad at first, but remember – not all housing is created equal. It’s important to keep things in mind that can make a huge difference in options for where you can live.
- Short-term leases – not all housing options will offer a short-term lease. With most assignments being right around three months in length, you don’t want to put yourself in a tough situation later by signing a year-long lease up-front.
- Pets – not all communities will allow you to bring your pets with you. Be sure to ask if pets are allowed on property and what the rules and restrictions are. For instance, dogs might be allowed, but only up to a certain weight.
- Don’t be afraid to ask the property management too many questions. It’s better to ask them in the beginning, before it’s too late.
Don’t limit yourself
Of course apartments are the first option that comes to mind when you think of where you’ll live, but don’t limit your possibilities from the get-go. There are plenty of choices out there if you do some research!
- Condos – many condos offer short-term lease options.
- Airbnb and HomeAway– these are both online marketplaces that aim to connect those searching for housing with those looking to rent out their house, apartment, and so on.
- Extended stays and hotels – many extended stays and hotels offer long term options for a great price. This could be a great option depending on where your assignment location is.
Ask for help
If you’re struggling to find a good living option that you’re happy and comfortable with, ask your company for help! Many staffing companies are able to help find living accommodations for their travelers. For example, at Aureus, our affiliate, Aurhomes, specializes in finding housing for all of our travelers that opt not to take the stipend. Your company may also offer suggestions on where they’ve had travelers stay in the past.
In reality, securing housing isn’t as scary as it seems. Being knowledgeable before making any housing decisions can make a world of difference. Travelers and recruiters, what tips or tricks would you offer to new travelers in regards to housing? Please comment below!
Jillian Heywood is a Recruiter for the Aureus Medical Social Media Recruitment Team.
Be careful if you are doing your own housing. Signing even a 3 month lease can be an issue if contract ends earlier than expected – ex: medical leave cut short-leaving YOU responsible for remaining part of lease. I have had 2 assignments end early, glad the company found and dealt with my housing.
I have traveled off and on for past 8+ years. 4 years ago I bought a HUGE RV and have lived in it across the country since. The housing stipend has made payments. It’s been quite the adventure. I have more room and storage than many in apartments and BEST OF ALL. I have all my stuff with me. I do stained glass as a hobby and other creative projects and can have everything I need at my fingertips.
How much is the average stipend? The RV is my goal. Just wondering how much the stipend varies state to state.
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