Extended Stay vs. Temporary Living: Which Option is Right for Your Employees?
Choosing the Best Accommodation for Your Mobile Workforce
In today’s fast-paced corporate world, business travel is more essential than ever. Companies often need to send employees on short-term assignments, extended business trips, or even temporary housing during a relocation. When it comes to choosing the right type of accommodation for these employees, two popular options stand out: extended-stay hotels and temporary living solutions, such as corporate apartments or short-term rentals. While both provide valuable services, each has its distinct benefits and ideal use cases. So, how do you know which option is right for your mobile workforce?
Understanding Extended Stay Hotels
Extended-stay hotels are designed specifically for guests who require accommodations for a week or more. They combine the service and amenities of a traditional hotel with the comforts of home, offering features like in-room kitchens, on-site laundry, and spacious living areas. These hotels are often located in convenient business districts, providing easy access to workspaces, restaurants, and transportation hubs.
Pros of Extended Stay Hotels:
Turnkey Convenience:
Extended stay hotels are perfect for travelers who need hassle-free accommodations. Everything is managed by the hotel, from housekeeping services to utilities, making it easy for employees to settle in without worrying about the details. The rooms often have kitchenettes, which can provide for a more cost-effective stay.
Prime Locations:
Extended stay hotels are typically located near business centers, major highways, and airports. This ensures that your employees will have easy access to their work location as well as nearby amenities.
Flexible Stays:
Extended-stay hotels offer flexibility if your employee’s stay is uncertain or subject to change. Many allow for nightly or weekly extensions, allowing you to adapt to changing project timelines or relocation schedules.
Cons of Extended Stay Hotels:
Costly Over Time:
While extended-stay hotels can be cost-effective for shorter durations, the nightly rates can add up quickly over weeks or months, making them less appealing for long-term stays.
Limited Space:
Though larger than standard hotel rooms, extended-stay units are still compact compared to apartments. This can be a drawback for employees who need more space or are traveling with family.
Temporary Living Solutions: Corporate Apartments and Short-Term Rentals
On the other hand, temporary living solutions encompass a range of options, including corporate apartments, private rentals, and short-term leases. These accommodations offer a more home-like experience, providing fully furnished units with multiple rooms, full kitchens, and all the necessary amenities for an extended stay.
Pros of Temporary Living Solutions:
Home-Like Comforts:
Corporate apartments and short-term rentals offer the comforts of home, making them ideal for employees on long-term assignments or relocations. With separate living and sleeping spaces, fully equipped kitchens, and often a private patio or balcony, your employees can settle in as if they were living in their own home.
Cost Efficiency for Long-Term Stays:
While the upfront costs may be higher than extended-stay hotels, temporary living solutions are more cost-effective over time. This option provides greater financial flexibility for companies looking to accommodate employees for several months.
Customization and Privacy:
Temporary living offers more customizable options regarding location, amenities, and apartment size. Additionally, employees may prefer the privacy and quieter environment of a residential setting to a hotel.
Cons of Temporary Living Solutions:
Less Immediate Availability:
Unlike extended-stay hotels, which can be booked on short notice, temporary living solutions may require more advanced planning. Corporate apartments and short-term rentals may have limited availability depending on the location and time of year.
Minimal On-Site Services:
While temporary living solutions provide more space and privacy, they typically lack some of the daily services that hotels offer, such as housekeeping, room service, or 24-hour front desk assistance. For some travelers, this could be a disadvantage.
How to Choose the Right Option
When deciding between extended-stay hotels and temporary living solutions, consider the specific needs of your business travelers, the duration of their stay, and your company’s budget. Here are a few key factors to keep in mind:
Length of Stay:
Extended-stay hotels offer the convenience and flexibility needed for shorter assignments or projects lasting a few weeks. However, corporate apartments or short-term rentals provide a more cost-effective and comfortable solution for employees relocating or staying for several months.
Workload and Lifestyle:
Consider your employees’ work schedules and personal preferences. For those who need a full kitchen to cook meals, temporary living solutions will be more appealing. However, an extended-stay hotel may be the better fit if your employee prefers daily housekeeping and room service.
Location:
If proximity to the office or job site is critical, extended-stay hotels often have an advantage in central location. However, if your employees want a quieter, more residential setting, temporary living options may offer better choices in different neighborhoods.
Rental Relocation: Your Partner for Temporary Housing Solutions
At Rental Relocation (RRI), we understand that every employee has unique needs, and we offer a variety of flexible housing solutions tailored to your company’s requirements. Whether you’re looking for full-service, extended-stay hotels, long-term corporate apartments, or even private rentals, we can help you find the perfect accommodation for your employees. Our team is dedicated to ensuring a seamless transition, providing personalized support and tailored housing options to suit every situation.
From fully furnished apartments to extended-stay hotels, Rental Relocation has the expertise and resources to make corporate travel stress-free and comfortable. Contact us today to discover how we can support your organization’s temporary housing needs!
About the Author: Ginger Merrick, SCRP, SGMS
As the Director of Global Mobility and Communications for InterLink Relocation Resources and Rental Relocation, Inc., Ginger Merrick, SCRP, SGMS, provides global mobility and relocation subject matter expertise to clients and relocating employees. Upon joining the company in 2019, Ginger brought a 360° perspective based on 20+ years of corporate global mobility and relocation experience. Ginger has earned both her SCRP and SGMS designations from Worldwide ERC (WERC) and holds a Georgia Real Estate License. She is the former two-term President for the Metro Atlanta Relocation Council (MARC), content contributor for Mobility Magazine, and the recipient of the WERC’s “Meritorious Service Award” and “Distinguished Service Award”.
