When work takes you on the road or life calls for a temporary move, corporate housing can be the perfect solution. But what exactly is corporate housing? How does it differ from hotels or Airbnb stays? And more importantly, is it right for you?
In this complete guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about corporate housing—from what it is and who it’s for, to how it works and why it might be a smart choice for your next extended stay.
Whether you’re relocating for work, traveling for business, or just need a temporary home base accommodation, corporate housing offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and flexibility.
Let’s dive in!
Quick Summary
Corporate housing is a short-term rental solution designed to offer a home-like experience for business travel, families, and individuals in transition. This guide covers the different types of corporate housing, its benefits, typical amenities, and key considerations before renting. Corporate housing is a cost-effective and flexible alternative to hotels, offering more space and comfort for extended stays. You can easily find corporate housing through online platforms, corporate providers, and local real estate agencies.
Key Points Recap:
- Corporate housing offers fully furnished apartments and extended-stay options for temporary stays.
- It’s ideal for business professionals, relocation of families, students, and individuals in transition.
- Cost-effective for long-term stays compared to hotels, with included amenities like Wi-Fi, utilities, and furniture.
- Lease terms are flexible, often starting at 30 days.
- Booking is easy through online platforms, corporate housing providers, and real estate agencies.
Overview of Corporate Housing
Corporate housing refers to fully furnished, short-term rental accommodations that are designed to provide a home-away-from-home experience, primarily for business travelers. These rentals typically include everything you’d need for a comfortable stay, like furniture, kitchenware, Wi-Fi, and utilities, making it a hassle-free option for those who don’t want to deal with moving into a completely empty apartment.
It’s commonly used by professionals who are temporarily relocating for work, but corporate housing isn’t just for the corporate crowd. Many people who are in between homes, going through renovations, or studying abroad also opt for corporate housing because of its flexibility and convenience.
What Sets Corporate Housing Apart?
Unlike traditional apartment rentals that require long-term leases or hotels that cater to short stays, corporate housing fills the gap by offering short- to medium-term rentals—usually starting from 30 days and up. This is perfect for those who need more than just a few nights but don’t want to commit to a year-long lease.
Types of Corporate Housing Options
Corporate housing comes in a variety of forms, so you can choose the setup that best meets your needs. Here are the most common types:
Furnished Apartments
Fully furnished apartments are the most popular type of corporate housing. These apartments are fully equipped with furniture, bedding, kitchen essentials, and appliances, making it easy for you to settle in without needing to bring anything but your suitcase.
Extended-Stay Hotels
Some extended-stay hotels also fall under the umbrella of corporate housing. These hotels offer suite with kitchenettes, laundry facilities, and sometimes even separate living lodging areas. While the setup is similar to a hotel, the focus is on longer stays with more amenities tailored for an extended visit.
Serviced Apartments
Serviced apartments offer hotel-like services but come with the perks of a private apartment. These might include housekeeping, concierge service, and 24-hour customer support. It’s a great option for those who want a balance between comfort and convenience.
Benefits of Choosing Corporate Housing
Why should you choose corporate housing over traditional apartments or hotels? Let’s take a look at some of the key benefits:
Flexibility
One of the biggest advantages of corporate housing is its flexibility. Whether you need to stay for a month or six months, corporate housing offers flexible lease terms that cater to your specific needs. This makes it ideal for business travelers, digital nomads, and people between permanent homes.
Fully Furnished and Move-In Ready
No need to haul around heavy furniture or worry about buying kitchenware—corporate housing units come fully furnished and are equipped with everything you need. From cozy couches to fully-stocked kitchens, it’s all ready for you the moment you walk in.
Cost-Effective for Longer Stays
Compared to hotels, corporate housing is generally more cost-effective for long-term stays. While nightly rates at hotels can add up quickly, corporate housing typically has lower per-night costs when rented for extended periods. Plus, having access to a kitchen can help you save on dining expenses.
Comfort and Space
Corporate housing often provides more space and comfort than a standard hotel room. Instead of being stuck in a cramped hotel room, you can enjoy a full living area, bedroom, kitchen, and even office space—all designed to make you feel more at home.
Typical Amenities Offered
One of the perks of corporate housing is the array of amenities that come included in your rental. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Furniture and Home Essentials
Everything from a bed and couch to a dining table and chairs will be included in your rental. The apartment will also be equipped with home essentials like bedding, towels, and kitchenware.
High-Speed Internet and Utilities
You won’t have to worry about setting up Wi-Fi or paying separate utility bills. Most corporate housing rentals include high-speed internet, water, electricity, and sometimes even cable in the cost.
Housekeeping Services
Some corporate housing providers offer housekeeping services as part of the package. This can include regular cleaning of your apartment, linen changes, and even laundry services, depending on the rental.
Community Amenities
Depending on where your corporate housing is located, you might also have access to building amenities like a gym, pool, parking, and 24/7 security.
Duration and Flexibility of Stays
Corporate housing is designed for short- to medium-term stays, usually ranging from 30 days to several months. This makes it the perfect option for:
- Business professionals on temporary assignments
- Individuals or families relocating to a new city
- Those in between permanent housing
- People undergoing home renovations
- Students or interns completing short-term programs
Most corporate housing providers offer flexible lease terms, so if your stay needs to be extended, you’ll often have the option to do so without locking yourself into a long-term contract.
Cost Comparison with Hotels
Corporate housing often proves to be a more affordable option than hotels, especially for long-term stays. Here’s why:
Lower Nightly Rates
Hotels charge by the night, and even discounted rates for long stays can add up quickly. Corporate housing, on the other hand, offers lower rates for extended stays, which can save you a significant amount of money over time.
No Extra Fees
With corporate housing, you won’t have to worry about hidden fees for things like Wi-Fi or parking. Utilities are often included in the rental price, and having access to a full kitchen means you can cut down on dining expenses.
More Space for the Price
You’ll typically get more bang for your buck with corporate housing. Instead of a small hotel room, you’ll have a full apartment with separate living areas, offering more space for the same (or less) cost than a hotel.
Target Audience for Corporate Housing
Corporate housing is designed to meet the needs of a variety of people. While it’s commonly associated with business professionals, it’s a great option for:
Business Travelers
If you’re relocating for work or traveling for an extended business assignment, corporate housing offers the perfect blend of convenience, flexibility, and comfort.
Relocating Families
Families moving to a new city often use corporate housing as a temporary solution while they search for permanent housing. The space and homey feel make it a great fit for families with children.
Students and Interns
Students and interns who need short-term accommodations for internships or semester-long programs often turn to corporate housing for its convenience and affordability compared to hotels.
Individuals in Transition
Corporate housing is also a popular choice for people who are in between permanent homes, whether they’re waiting for a new home to be ready, renovating, or selling their old home.
Finding and Booking Corporate Housing
Now that you know the benefits, how do you go about finding and booking corporate housing? Here are some tips to get started:
Online Platforms
There are several platforms dedicated to corporate housing, such as Furnished Finder, Apartments.com, and CorporateHousing.com. These platforms allow you to search for available rentals based on location, length of stay, and price range.
Corporate Housing Providers
Many companies specialize in corporate housing rentals. Reach out to company directly to inquire about availability and rates. Some well-known providers include Oakwood, Sonder, and Synergy Global Housing.
Local Real Estate Agencies
If you’re relocating to a new city, you can also contact local real estate agencies that may offer corporate housing options or connect you with a corporate housing provider.
Consider Your Budget
Before booking, make sure to consider your budget and what’s included in the rental. Ask some employee about any additional fees and make sure the location is convenient for your needs.
Key Considerations Before Renting
Before committing to corporate housing, there are a few key things to keep in mind:
Lease Terms
Make sure you fully understand the lease terms. Is it month-to-month, or is there a minimum stay required? Can you extend your stay if needed?
Cancellation Policies
Understand the cancellation policies in case your plans change. Some executive corporate housing providers offer more flexibility than others.
Location
Check the location and its proximity to your work, school, or other essential spots. You don’t want to end up with a long commute or in an inconvenient residence area.
Parking
If you’ll be driving, ensure that parking is available and included in the rental. Parking fees can add up quickly, especially in busy city areas.
Trends in the Corporate Housing Industry
The corporate housing industry has evolved over the years, and here are a few trends shaping the future:
Remote Work and Digital Nomads
With the rise of remote work and digital nomads, corporate housing is becoming an attractive option for professionals who work from different locations for extended periods.
Eco-Friendly Accommodations
Sustainability is increasingly important, and many corporate housing providers are incorporating eco-friendly practices, such as energy-efficient appliances and green building materials.
Tech-Integrated Living
More corporate housing units are being outfitted with smart home technology, such as keyless entry, smart thermostats, and virtual concierge services, offering a tech-savvy living experience.
