For travel nurses, securing comfortable and convenient housing is a crucial aspect of each new assignment. If you’re opting for the housing stipend instead of agency-provided accommodations, knowing where to look is essential. Here’s a rundown of the top websites and strategies travel nurses use to find housing, offering flexibility and control over their living arrangements.
Top Websites for Travel Nurse Housing
Several websites specialize in connecting traveling professionals with suitable housing options. Each platform offers unique features and benefits, catering to different needs and preferences.
Airbnb
Launched in 2008, Airbnb has become a go-to resource for travelers, including travel healthcare professionals. Airbnb verifies hosts and provides a secure messaging system, protecting both parties. You can customize your search with specific parameters to find options that align with your preferences and budget.
Apartments.com
While primarily focused on apartments, Apartments.com also lists condos, townhouses, and furnished monthly rentals. The site allows you to apply filters to narrow your search, making it easier to find a place that meets your specific requirements. Note that Apartments.com also operates apartmentfinder.com and apartmenthomeliving.com, expanding your search possibilities.
HouseStay.com
HouseStay.com focuses on providing reliable and all-inclusive housing solutions for travel nurses. Listings typically include fully furnished properties with utilities included and availability for 30 nights or more. Each property undergoes a HouseStay home inspection to ensure quality and safety. The booking process includes a housing form to ensure personalized assistance from rental experts.
VRBO (Vacation Rental By Owner)
VRBO is a popular platform for finding both short-term and long-term housing, including houses, apartments, and condos. Committed to user safety and comfort, VRBO allows you to specify your trip details (dates, destination, number of guests) to find listings that fit your criteria.
FurnishedFinder.com
FurnishedFinder.com is specifically designed for travel nurse housing. You can enter your maximum rental budget and desired location to view temporary housing options within your parameters. All rentals are furnished and cater to the needs of travel nurses. If you can’t find a suitable option, you can submit a housing request through the platform.
HomeStay.com
HomeStay.com offers a unique approach to travel nurse housing. This site connects travelers with hosts who rent out a space in their homes. This can be a great way to connect with locals, learn about the area, and potentially find a guide to help you navigate your new surroundings.
Tips for Finding the Right Housing
- Start Early: Begin your housing search well in advance of your assignment start date to allow ample time for research and booking.
- Set a Budget: Determine your maximum budget for housing, including rent, utilities, and other expenses.
- Define Your Needs: Make a list of your must-have amenities and preferences, such as location, size, pet-friendliness, and parking.
- Read Reviews: Pay attention to reviews from other travel nurses to get insights into the quality and reliability of the housing.
- Communicate Clearly: When contacting potential landlords or hosts, be clear about your needs and expectations.
- Consider Location: Factor in the proximity to your workplace, grocery stores, restaurants, and other amenities.
Conclusion
Finding suitable housing is a key element of a successful travel nursing assignment. By utilizing the websites and tips outlined above, travel nurses can confidently secure comfortable, convenient, and affordable accommodations that meet their individual needs and preferences. Whether you prefer the privacy of an apartment, the community of a homestay, or the flexibility of a vacation rental, the options are plentiful and tailored to the unique lifestyle of a travel nurse.
