For over half a decade, I’ve been a travel nurse and without a doubt, the toughest part is securing the ideal accommodation at a favorable price.
Throughout this period, I’ve stayed in some of the country’s high-cost areas, like Phoenix during their spring training, and a significant part of my time in California where the living expenses can be considerably high. Yet, I’ve mastered the art of hunting for great bargains and securing premium travel nurse accommodations that allow me to save a substantial portion of my pay package.
First-time travelers often find themselves at a loss when it comes to beginning their search for housing. There are numerous sources for travel nurse housing, but the key to kick-starting your quest for a short term rental is understanding what it is that you desire. I’ve honed my search process by carefully considering certain aspects of housing. Of course, these considerations are subjective and can change based on what’s significant to you, but it’s always useful to have some insight into what an experienced traveler looks at before settling on a place.
When considering housing options, location takes precedence as it profoundly impacts your overall experience. To narrow down the search, follow these steps:
Location – The Paramount Factor
- Prioritize Safety:
Safety should be your utmost concern. Utilize online resources, seek recommendations from fellow travelers, or conduct a simple Google search to identify neighborhoods to avoid. Opting for affordability over safety can lead to undesirable situations.
- Define Your Goal:
Determine the purpose of your assignment – saving money or exploring local attractions. Suburban areas are usually more budget-friendly, whereas hotspots epitomize excitement. Some cities offer both affordability and vibrancy, but a choice often needs to be made.
- Analyze City Details:
Assess the unique characteristics of the city you are moving to. For example, living within walkable distance to your hospital in a traffic-congested city like Los Angeles can be a significant advantage. Opting for beachside living in San Diego affords a glimpse of their famed low-key beach culture. Choose a location that facilitates the realization of your assignment goals.
Here are the Top 10 Travel Nurse destinations of 2024!
Price – The Balancing Act
While price can be a daunting factor, it is crucial to strike a balance between affordability and desired features. Consider the following tips:
- Deciding Priority:
Determine your top priority – location or price. This will influence your flexibility in negotiating the rental costs.
- Explore All Options:
Reach out directly to property owners or companies, even if their prices initially seem exorbitant. Sometimes, they may be open to negotiation. MiniStays, a platform that connects you directly with landlords, offers potential advantages over traditional rental websites.
- Avoid Payment Risks:
Never pay in advance without a written contract, except when dealing with established companies. When sending deposits, utilize secure payment services and avoid taking payments offline like using PayPal or Venmo to safeguard against fraudulent transactions. Beware of housing scams that seem too good to be true. That’s why I like using trusted platforms like MiniStays.com.
- Rule of Thumb:
A good rule of thumb is to allocate approximately one week’s worth of pay or 25% of your monthly income for rent. Aligning your budget with this guideline ensures affordability and aids in narrowing down the suitable price range.
Amenities – Ensuring Comfort
Once critical factors like location and price are settled, amenities play a vital role in enhancing your stay. Consider the following aspects:
- Climate Control:
Ensure your rental provides adequate air conditioning or heating, depending on the destination. Opting for a place without air conditioning in a hot and humid location can lead to discomfort during your entire stay.
- Parking Facilities:
In metropolitan areas with limited parking, having access to a garage or dedicated parking space is invaluable. Confirm the availability of such facilities before assuming they are included.
- Laundry Facilities:
Preferably, find a rental with laundry facilities within the building. If renting a room in a house, inquire about laundry room access.
- Utilities and Furniture:
Clarify with the landlord which utilities are included in the rent to avoid unexpected bills. Additionally, ensure that the rental is furnished, as this saves you the hassle and expense of purchasing or renting furniture separately.
Finding your next home away from home can be a daunting and scary task but it doesn’t have to be. I hope some of my tips help when you’re looking for your next place to stay. To make your life a lot easier, I highly recommend using MiniStays to aid in your search. Best of luck! 🙂
