As anyone who has undertaken a home renovation project knows, living in a construction zone can be incredibly inconvenient and sometimes downright impossible. While renovations are intended to improve your home in the long run, they require temporary arrangements elsewhere while work is underway. Fortunately, there are several accommodation options suited for short-term stays during renovations. By understanding your budget, timeline, space needs and desired amenities, you can find housing that makes this transition smooth and hassle-free.
Short-Term Rental Options for During a Renovation
Extended Stay Hotels
Extended stay hotels offer apartment-style rooms equipped for more than just an overnight visit. Rooms have full kitchenettes so you can prepare meals instead of dining out all the time. Stays can range from one week to several months, making extended stay hotels a popular choice for renovation housing. While slightly more expensive than a standard hotel, they are still much cheaper than corporate rentals or vacations homes. Look for hotels near your home that accept long-term bookings.
Vacation Rentals
Sites like Airbnb, VRBO and HomeAway offer fully furnished vacation homes, condos and apartments that can be rented by the week or month. Vacation rentals may have more space and amenities than a hotel room. However, cleaning fees and nightly rates often increase for longer bookings. Rentals located within your neighborhood allow easy access to oversee the renovation progress. Book well in advance of your projected renovation start date for the best rates and selection.
Corporate Housing
Corporate housing services provide fully furnished apartments or homes to temporary residents like those displaced by renovations. Units tend to be larger than hotels with separate bedrooms, living areas and kitchens. Rentals can last 30 days or more. However, corporate housing is also the most expensive short-term option. Look for corporate housing companies that work with renovation timelines.
Hotel Chains Ideal for Renovators
Extended Stay America
As the leading extended stay hotel brand, Extended Stay America is an obvious top choice for renovation housing. Rooms include kitchenettes with refrigerators and stovetops. Long-term rates are available and pet friendly rooms can be requested. Free WiFi and breakfast are other amenities. Locations are widespread making it likely there is a property near your home.
Candlewood Suites
Candlewood Suites by IHG is another extended stay hotel concept geared towards longer visits. All rooms have kitchenettes and separate living/working areas. Weekly and monthly rates make it a cost effective option. Free hot breakfast and WiFi are included. Kid friendly environments and accessible rooms are other pluses.
Staybridge Suites
Staybridge Suites by IHG is a premium extended stay brand well suited for renovator housing needs. Spacious studio or one bedroom suites include full kitchens. Guest laundry, fitness rooms and complimentary breakfast buffet are on-site. Located close to business districts in many cities. Rates are competitive for one month+. Pet friendly rooms available by request.
Alternative Accommodations While Renovation
For those seeking alternatives to traditional hotel or short-term rental stays, other accommodation types exist:
Short-Term Corporate Rentals
Some private corporate rental properties offer short-term furnished apartments perfect for renovations lasting 4-6 months. Units tend to be fully equipped one or two bedroom units located close to business districts. Rates are lower than traditional corporate housing.
Hostels
Basic dorm-style or private rooms in hostels provide extremely affordable temporary housing. Best suited for budget conscious solo travelers during shorter renovations. Shared kitchen and bathroom facilities are the tradeoff for low nightly rates.
Long-Term Camping & RV Parks
Recreational vehicle (RV) parks and campgrounds that allow monthly bookings turn a camper, trailer or RV into a low-cost housing option. Furnished spaces include utilities. Best for those seeking an experience different than traditional accommodations.
Friends & Family Couches
The cheapest option is seeing if family or friends will host you during renovations. Only practical for shorter stays and if out of town, daily commutes may be lengthy.
Factors To Consider When Choosing Temporary Housing During Renovations
Budget and Duration
Estimate renovation timelines and costs to determine minimum/maximum housing budget and length of stay needs (few weeks versus several months). Compare long-term rates from various accommodation types.
Proximity to Home
Closer proximity allows for easy project oversight and communication with contractors. Further locations reduce inconvenience but increase daily commuting time/costs for checks/decisions.
Amenities and Services
Consider if full kitchens, laundry, parking, WiFi are needed. Families with kids have different needs than solo travelers. Confirm pet policies if bringing animals. Hotels provide daily cleaning while rentals require more self-sufficiency.
Returning Home: Transitioning Back After the Renovation
After months living out of suitcases in temporary housing, the big move back home marks the light at the end of the renovation tunnel. However, transitioning back into a newly reconstructed space can still pose some challenges:
Furniture Relocation
Plan furniture placement in new layout. Consider temporary storage for items not immediately needed as you settle in. Enlist movers for large scale moves.
Cleaning the New Space
Have contractors do a final cleaning before moving back in. Then do additional cleanings of personal items as you unpack.
Utilities & Mail Forwarding
Ensure all utility connections, mail forwarding etc. are scheduled to resume on your return move-in date. Test all systems are functioning properly.
Final Project Touches
Compile a punch list of any minor fixes/tasks for contractors to complete. Schedule follow up meeting to sign off on work. With some planning, you can enjoy your renovated home with minimal hassle.