airbnb travel nurse

Renting to Traveling Nurses – How to Get Started

Have you ever considered renting to traveling nurses? Perhaps you have a guest bedroom or a garage apartment sitting unused? It could be a great place for a travel nurse to call home for 13 weeks. With the economy in the dumps, it’s easy to dream about pocketing some extra cash . Renting to traveling nurses on AirBNB or another platform is a great side hustle for nurses (and everyone else) that is pretty easy to get into, and is mutually beneficial. Plus, nurses are awesome house guests!

Housing Stipend to Cover Housing Costs

Short-term rentals, travel nursing agencies and medical centers, rental agreement & fees, what is a travel nurse.

Travel nurses are registered nurses (RNs) from various clinical backgrounds who work for independent staffing agencies. They are assigned to different care areas temporarily to fill in short-term employment gaps. Travel nursing increases in popularity when the nursing field faces a nationwide shortage​. The recent healthcare crisis generated a big need for travel nurses when hospitals had extra funding from the government to pay them. 

Benefits of Renting to Travel Nurses

Collecting rental income from traveling nurses is a great way to generate passive income without committing to long-term lease terms. Traveling nurses typically need furnished accommodations for their short-term assignments, ranging from a few weeks to several months. As such, property owners and landlords can charge higher rental rates for these fully furnished, utility-included rentals​. The short term nature is also great in case you decide hosting a travel nurse is not for you.

If you already own rental properties, providing corporate housing is a great way to diversify and bolster your income stream.

Travel nurse agencies provide a travel nursing stipend that allows a nurse to book the accommodations they desire. This stipend is private and they are not obligated to tell you how much it was or give you all of it. The amount they get and spend is completely up to the traveling healthcare professional.

Attractive Amenities in Rentals for Travel Nurses

Potential renters have many options and you’ll want to make sure your property is attractive to the renter population.

• Pet-friendly travel nurse rentals: Many nurses will travel with their furry friends and will be happy to pay a pet fee to bring their pup along if you can provide a pet-friendly unit.
• Blackout Curtains: Attract professionals working night shifts by providing a sound machine, privacy, quiet, and the ability to sleep in the dark whether it’s day or night.
• Storage : Nurses that travel will have many of their personal belongings with them and will likely need a good amount of space
• Flexible Leases: Sometimes travel contracts can be canceled and offering a provision to end the contract early (for a reasonable fee) is very attractive.
• Laundry Facilities: On-site or in-room laundry is super desirable because it will save your guest time and money
• Limiting Additional Costs or Fees: Don’t nickel and dime travelers. Increase your overall rate and bake things in instead of charging extra for things like parking, pool access, and so on.

Travel Nurse Housing

Travel nurses seek different types of accommodations depending on their needs and experience.  I’ll outline the types of housing options for temporary renters:

Furnished Housing

Travel nurses typically need temporary housing for travel assignments. They will look for fully furnished properties, as they move frequently and cannot bring large items like furniture with them. Landlords offering a completely furnished unit, including kitchenware, bedding, and other essentials, will have a competitive edge in this market.

Camper or RV Lots

Some nurses make a career out of traveling. Many will opt to purchase their own camper or RV and take their home with them. In this case, they’ll be looking for a spot to park and hook up to utilities. If you own a camp group, RV lot, or even just an extra space where you can park an RV, this is another great option as well. 

Agency-Provided Housing

Some travel nurse companies will do the leg work of booking housing for the nurse. So your property could be a travel nurse housing option that you market explicitly to travel nursing agencies.

Long-term Rentals

Sometimes a nurse will plan to be at an assignment for 6 months. Typically, this is the point where property owners look at signing a long term lease. This will be much more rare for nurses that travel, since they are typically filling a short term need. Some contract nurses or other medical professionals looking for corporate housing may be more inclined to rent long term.

The key feature of travel nurse rentals is their short-term nature. Assignments are typically 13 weeks, with some crisis assignments being as short as a few days. Rental agreements for travel nurses typically last three months, offering more flexibility than traditional rentals with 12-month leases. This flexibility allows landlords to adjust rental rates or even decide to live in or sell the property once the lease expires.

Finding Potential Travel Nurse Renters

There are many popular rental listing sites that can help you find potential travel nurse renters. These include Furnished Finder, VRBO, and most notably, Airbnb. Becoming a host on these platforms can open up your property to a network of traveling nurses looking for housing.

Becoming an AIRBNB Host

AirBNB is a great option to offer housing for nurses. You can rent a single room or an entire house. One of the reasons I like AirBNB is because becoming an Airbnb host is a straightforward process. All you have to do is hop on over to AirBNB , register or log into your account, list your property, and wait for bookings to come in. Airbnb is a popular choice for travel nurses because of its user-friendly platform and extensive network of properties. There are also no fees to get started and they only earn money when you get a booking. 

I’ve hosted many guests via AirBNB. If you decide to become an AirBNB host , I’d be happy to give you pointers or answer questions.

Hosting on Furnished Finder

Furnished Finder is another platform where you can list your property for travel healthcare professionals. It is a website specifically designed for travel nurses and other traveling healthcare professionals looking for furnished rentals. This option for travel nurses does have an upfront fee to list your property. At the time of publishing this article, the listing fee starts at $99 a year and goes up based on property type.

VRBO for Travel Nurses

Vacation Rental By Owner ( VRBO ) is another platform you might consider. Although it’s typically used for vacation rentals, it also serves as a platform for finding short-term housing for travel nurses. It’s another option that does not charge an upfront fee.

Some travel nursing companies and local medical centers will have their own housing. This may be a patient room at the hospital or a nearby hotel. These options are often tried by less experienced travel nurses, because it seems like less headache. But most experienced travel nurses prefer to find their own accommodations (with awesome potential hosts like you!)

Business Tips for Potential Landlords and Hosts

When you decide to host a traveling professional, you’ll want to get familiar with the business side of things.

Some business items to consider:

• tax savings strategies (like the Augusta rule)
• bookkeeping
• rental agreements
• background checks
• digital tools for property owners

Nurses know that if you didn’t document it, it wasn’t done. Get everything in writing.

If you’re hosting on AirBNB, you’ll add this to the house rules or within the listing. Any items not covered there should be discussed and agreed upon via the in-app chat, so there is a paper trail. 

When renting to travel nurses, it’s important to create a rental agreement that outlines the terms and conditions of the rental. It’s crucial to have a detailed rental agreement that protects both parties. It should outline the terms and conditions of the lease, including the duration, rental rate, and any applicable fees. This is not required for AirBNB, but some will go the extra step to get this signed so everyone is on the same page.

This agreement should protect both parties and align everyone on the expectations and rules. Be clear about expectations for privacy, noise, cleaning, pets, and so on in your rental agreement. If you plan to charge fees for broken rules (such as unauthorized pets or not cleaning properly), you’ll need to outline this in the agreement. 

Booking Fees and Security Deposits

Booking fees and security deposits are common with short-term rentals. The booking fee is usually a percentage of the total rent, while the security deposit covers any potential damages to the property. AirBNB and VRBO both collect booking fees after a guest has paid. The security deposit is something you will have to collect separately and return to the traveler after they have vacated the property in good condition.

Become Familiar with Landlord Laws and Tenants’ Rights 

Many people find short term rentals (less than 30 days) attractive because in most states, renters will not have tenant’s rights until 30 days. Most travel nurse assignments are a minimum of 8 weeks, so it would pass that 30 day threshold. This is one example of a law to be familiar with.  You’ll also want to check with your insurance to see if you’ll need to add on any extra coverage.

Get Started on AirBNB Today!

As I stated above, I like AirBNB as a great option to get started because there are no upfront fees, it’s super simple, and it’s wildly popular. It’s a great option for attracting traveling professionals seeking corporate housing and healthcare staffing companies. 

About The Author

Brittney wilson, bsn, rn, related posts.

Guide to the Top Nursing Gear

Is Nursing.com Nursing Student Academy the Best NCLEX Review?

Best Remedy For Maskne And Acne Overnight

Rich Nurse Guide – How to Become Rich as a Nurse

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Start typing and press enter to search

• Managing Difficult Situations

Do Travel Nurses Use Airbnb?

Yes, many travel nurses use Airbnb as their choice of accommodation.

Why Airbnb Could Be A Great Choice for Travel Nurses

As a travel nurse, finding suitable accommodation can be a challenge, especially when you’re working in a new city or town for a short period of time. Here’s why Airbnb could be a great choice for you:

Proximity to Healthcare Facilities

One of the biggest advantages of staying in an Airbnb as a travel nurse is the proximity to healthcare facilities. Many hosts understand the needs of healthcare professionals and choose to list their properties near hospitals or other medical facilities. This can significantly reduce your commute time, allowing you to focus more on your work and have more downtime for yourself.

Affordability Compared to Traditional Accommodation

Travel nurses often have a limited budget for housing expenses. Renting a traditional apartment or staying in a hotel for an extended period of time can be expensive. Airbnb offers a more affordable option, especially for longer stays. You can choose from a range of listings that fit your budget, whether it’s a private room, a shared space, or an entire apartment.

Flexibility in Duration of Stay

Travel nursing assignments can vary in length, from a few weeks to several months. Airbnb offers flexibility in terms of the duration of your stay. You can find listings that are available for short-term rentals, allowing you to easily adjust your accommodation to match the length of your assignment. This eliminates the hassle of signing long-term leases or dealing with strict rental agreements.

How to Choose the Right Airbnb as a Travel Nurse

Choosing the right Airbnb as a travel nurse requires careful consideration. Here are some criteria to help you make the best decision:

Criteria for Selecting Airbnb

When browsing through listings, consider the following factors:

• Proximity to healthcare facilities: Look for listings that are conveniently located near your workplace to minimize commuting time.
• Safety and security: Ensure the neighborhood is safe and the property has appropriate security measures.
• Availability of essential amenities: Check if the listing provides necessities such as internet, kitchen facilities, laundry, and parking.
• Reviews and ratings: Read through previous guests’ reviews to get an idea of the host’s reliability and the overall quality of the accommodation.

Importance of Location and Accessibility

The location of your Airbnb is crucial, especially as a travel nurse. Consider the following:

• Accessibility to public transportation: Check if there are nearby bus stops or train stations to ease your commute.
• Proximity to grocery stores and restaurants: Having essential amenities within a short distance can be convenient during your stay.
• Local attractions and recreational activities: Consider the local area and what it has to offer in terms of leisure and relaxation during your downtime.

Making the Most Out of Your Airbnb Experience

To fully enjoy your Airbnb experience, here are some tips:

• Prioritize clear communication: Communicate your needs and expectations to your host before your stay.
• Ask questions: Don’t hesitate to ask the host about any concerns or uncertainties you may have about the listing or the local area.
• Establish rapport: Building a positive relationship with your host can make your stay more enjoyable and comfortable.
• Take advantage of your surroundings: Use your free time to explore the local area and experience its unique attractions, restaurants, and recreational activities.
• Connect with fellow travel nurses: Join social media groups or online forums to connect with other travel nurses in the area. They may have valuable recommendations and insights.

Understanding Airbnb’s Policies for Long-term Stays

Before booking a long-term stay on Airbnb, familiarize yourself with their policies:

Length of Stay Restrictions

Some hosts may have restrictions on the length of stay, so ensure the listing is suitable for your assignment duration. Consider contacting the host directly to discuss the possibility of extending your stay if needed.

Cancellation Policies – Understand the cancellation policy of the listing before making a reservation.

Different hosts may have different policies, such as flexible, moderate, or strict. If you anticipate any changes in your assignment or need to cancel your reservation, make sure you understand the potential fees or penalties involved.

Tips for Ensuring Your Safety and Comfort in Airbnb Accommodation

When staying in an Airbnb as a travel nurse, it’s important to prioritize your safety and comfort. Here are some tips:

Checking Reviews and Ratings

Read through previous guests’ reviews to get an understanding of the host’s reliability and the overall quality of the accommodation. Pay attention to any negative comments regarding safety or cleanliness issues.

Verifying the Identity of Your Host

Airbnb provides a host verification process, which includes identity verification. Look for listings that have verified hosts to ensure your safety. If you have any doubts about the host’s identity, reach out to Airbnb support for assistance.

Ensuring the Availability of Essential Amenities

Before booking, carefully review the listing to ensure it provides all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, such as internet, kitchen facilities, laundry, and parking. If any essential amenities are missing or not up to your expectations, communicate with the host to clarify the situation.

Q: Can I negotiate the price of an Airbnb as a travel nurse? A: It is possible to negotiate the price of an Airbnb as a travel nurse. Some hosts may be open to offering discounts or special rates for longer stays or if you book during their off-peak season. It’s worth reaching out to the host and politely discussing your budget and needs to see if they are willing to negotiate the price.

Q: Are there any additional fees I should be aware of when booking an Airbnb as a travel nurse? A: When booking an Airbnb, it’s important to be aware of any additional fees that may be associated with your stay. Some hosts may charge cleaning fees, service fees, or security deposits. Make sure to carefully review the listing and communicate with the host to clarify any potential fees before making a reservation.

Q: Can I bring my pet with me when staying in an Airbnb as a travel nurse? A: Whether you can bring your pet with you when staying in an Airbnb as a travel nurse depends on the individual listing’s pet policy. Some hosts may allow pets, while others may have strict no-pet policies. It’s important to check the listing’s rules and communicate with the host about your pet before booking.

Q: What should I do if I encounter any issues or problems during my Airbnb stay as a travel nurse? A: If you encounter any issues or problems during your Airbnb stay as a travel nurse, it’s important to first communicate with the host. Reach out to them and clearly explain the problem, providing any necessary details or evidence. Most hosts are willing to address and resolve issues promptly. If you are unable to reach a satisfactory resolution with the host, you can contact Airbnb’s customer support for assistance.

Q: Can I request specific amenities or accommodations in an Airbnb as a travel nurse? A: It is possible to request specific amenities or accommodations in an Airbnb as a travel nurse. Before booking, communicate with the host and clearly outline your needs and preferences. For example, if you require a dedicated workspace, a quiet environment, or specific kitchen appliances, discuss these requirements with the host to ensure they can accommodate your needs.

Q: Are there any age restrictions for booking an Airbnb as a travel nurse? A: There are generally no age restrictions for booking an Airbnb as a travel nurse. However, it’s important to review the individual listing’s rules and policies, as some hosts may have specific age restrictions in place. If you have any concerns or questions about age restrictions, reach out to the host for clarification.

Q: How can I ensure a smooth check-in process when staying in an Airbnb as a travel nurse? A: To ensure a smooth check-in process when staying in an Airbnb as a travel nurse, communicate with the host in advance. Confirm your arrival time and discuss any specific instructions or details regarding check-in. It’s also a good idea to have a backup plan in case of any delays or unexpected circumstances on the day of check-in.

Q: Can I extend my stay at an Airbnb if my travel nursing assignment is extended? A: Whether you can extend your stay at an Airbnb if your travel nursing assignment is extended depends on the availability and policies of the individual listing. If you anticipate the possibility of an extension, communicate with the host as early as possible to discuss the potential for extending your stay. Some hosts may be flexible and willing to accommodate your needs.

Q: Can I receive mail or packages at an Airbnb as a travel nurse? A: Whether you can receive mail or packages at an Airbnb as a travel nurse depends on the host’s policies. Some hosts may be willing to accept mail or packages on your behalf, while others may not. Communicate with the host before booking to discuss your specific needs regarding mail or package delivery.

Olivia Williams

Similar posts.

What Do You Call a Nurse with…

How to Overcome ‘Do Not Hire’ List…

How Often Do Nurses Get Sued?

Should You Quit Your Job for Nursing…

What Happens If You Fail a Drug…

• Career Advancement 29
• Career Transection 20
• Job Satisfaction 16
• Managing Difficult Situations 6
• Work-Life Balance 14
• NCLEX Guide 50
• New Grad Nurse 21
• Nursing Practice Challenges 35
• Work Environment 23
• Emotional Challenges 3

POPULAR POSTS

What Happens If You Fail a Drug Test as a Nurse?

Should You Quit Your Job for Nursing School?

How to Overcome ‘Do Not Hire’ List as a Nurse

What Do You Call a Nurse with Dirty Knees?

How to Find Your Own Travel Nurse Housing – The Ultimate Guide

Finding your own travel nurse housing can seem daunting because there are tons of variables and options to consider. Moreover, travel nurse housing involves many unique circumstances that make it more complex than normal. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to find your own travel nurse housing like a pro!

First, this article assumes you’ve already considered the pros and cons of both agency-provided housing and finding your own housing. If you have not considered all the risks and rewards involved with this decision, then please review our article on that topic here .

Also, this article does not cover issues related to you taking agency-provided housing. Please review our Ultimate Guide to Travel Nurse Company Housing for everything you need to know about taking the company’s housing.

If you’re interested in learning everything you need to find your own travel nurse housing, then this is the article for you! First, we’ll cover some basic information about travel nurse housing reimbursements.

Find your next travel healthcare job on BluePipes!

Next, we’ll cover some general issues you should consider when you secure your own travel nurse housing. Then, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about various housing options from the perspective of a travel nurse.

Finally, we’ll provide tons of resources to help you find your own travel nurse housing. We’ll also provide some information about each resource so you’ll know what to expect.

Table of Contents:

General Considerations for Finding Your Own Travel Nurse Housing

Travel nurses and housing scams, everything travel nurses ought to know about extended stays.

• Hotels and Motels

What About “Corporate Housing” for Travel Nurses?

Apartment complexes and home rentals for travel nurses, how to use craigslist to find your own travel nurse housing, how to search for vacation rentals as a travel nurse, how to use airbnb for travel nurse housing.

• How to Use HomeAway and VRBO for Travel Nurse Housing

List of General Vacation Rental Services for Travel Nurses

Niche services to find travel nurse housing, the travel nurse housing reimbursement.

If you decide to secure your own travel nurse housing, then the travel nursing company will most likely pay you a nontaxable housing stipend. Therefore, it behooves you to know all you can about this compensation variable.

We covered everything you need to know about the travel nurse housing reimbursement in another article . We strongly encourage you to review it.

Discover the ultimate travel nursing pay calculator.

Basic information on stipend

Here, we just provide some basic points to remember. First, you must have a legitimate tax-home to qualify for tax-free reimbursements. If you do not, then you are an “itinerant worker”. In this case, the housing stipend is taxable even if the agency pays it to you tax-free.

Second, the amount of the lodging reimbursement varies by location, assignment and company. And, all else equal, some companies pay higher lodging reimbursements than others.

However, this does not necessarily mean the overall pay packages are any different. For example, one company might offer lower reimbursements but a higher taxable wage while another offers higher reimbursements and a lower taxable wage. This is why it is so important for you to accurately compare pay packages . You can use our powerful travel nursing pay calculator to help.

Additionally, it’s important to note that most if not all travel nursing companies adhere to the same upper limits on tax-free lodging reimbursements . The General Services Administration of the Federal Government publishes these upper limits. The limits vary by location.

That said, most travel nurses recommend that you work with agencies that offer reimbursements on the high side. This is especially true when you find your own housing. The reason is that a higher percentage of your pay ends up being nontaxable. Therefore, you end up with higher net pay .

Finally, it’s important to note that lodging reimbursements are taxable if you do not actually incur an expense for lodging. For example, if you stay with friends or family for free while you’re on assignment, then the lodging reimbursement is taxable income.

Again, we encourage you to review our full article on travel nurse housing stipends here . However, now that we’ve covered the basics, we can take a look at the general issues you should consider when you find your own travel nurse housing.

Take Stock of What You Need from Your Travel Nurse Housing

First, you might want to make a list of your housing needs. This list should include items specific to housing as well as items specific to your lifestyle. Here is a just a small list of considerations:

• Proximity to work
• Appliances (washer/dryer, toaster, dishwasher, etc)
• Walkability
• Proximity to gym
• Neighborhood safety and security

Essentially, the list you create will inform your housing search. It will also help you make sure you have everything you need to maintain your lifestyle. Never assume that a housing option comes equipped with anything. Always ask for verification and mark items off your checklist.

If you’re wondering what to pack and how to pack, then please review our article with packing tips and tools for travel nurses .

Travel Nurse Housing Length of Stay

The typical travel nursing contract is 13 weeks long, which is 3 months. Other common time-frames are 4, 6, 8 and 26 weeks.

These timeframes put travel nurses in a sort of housing limbo. That’s because many landlords and property managers simply will not work with the shorter timeframes. Those that do will often increase the monthly rent by 5% to 10%. This can limit the housing options available to travel nurses.

The original Universal Profile and Credential Management for travelers.

For example, many apartment complexes require a minimum lease of 6 months. Meanwhile, most people feel that 13 weeks is too long for hotels and motels.

Fortunately, the proliferation of housing marketplaces, like Airbnb, is making life easier for travel nurses in this regard. Moreover, there are some tips and tricks for hotels and motels that can make these options more appealing for travel nurses. We’ll discuss these topics below.

Short-term Lodging Taxes for Travel Nurse Housing

Travel nurses should also be aware of “short-term lodging taxes”. These taxes are most common with hotels and motels. However, you can also encounter them with vacation rentals and apartments.

It’s not that travel nurses are on the hook to remit these taxes. The property owner bears that responsibility. Instead, the reason it is so important to consider these taxes is that they’re avoidable or refundable in some cases. Therefore, there is an opportunity for you to save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

States, counties and cities levy these taxes . Therefore, the rules and regulations vary greatly. For example, Alabama has a 5% lodging tax for all rentals where the stay is 180 days or less. By contrast, California has no state or sales tax on lodging. Instead, counties or cities tax rentals where the stay is 30 days or less.

Refund for taxes is possible

Whether the taxes are refundable or avoidable varies by jurisdiction. For example, in some jurisdictions the taxes are refundable once you exceed the minimum stay.  In other jurisdictions, you simply stop paying the tax when you’ve met the minimum requirements.

Again, short-term lodging taxes are not applicable for all properties. It’s also important to note that lease agreements may not mention short-term lodging taxes at all. Certain hotel receipts may not mention them either. Therefore, it’s important to ask the property manager in advance because you might be able to save some money!

For example, we’ve worked with Extended Stay hotels that charge the applicable short-term lodging taxes for the first 30 days of stay. Then, they stop charging them after the 30 th day. If you ask them for a refund for the taxes you paid for the first 30 days, then they will grant you the refund. That’s because they no longer have to pay the short-term taxes once your stay qualifies as a long-term stay.

This will not work in all cases. However, it may only work if you ask.

Frequent Credit Checks

Most traditional landlords and property managers run a “hard credit check” before they agree to rent to anyone. Hard credit checks can lower your FICO credit score . This is particularly true if they happen frequently.

However, hard credit checks don’t affect your credit score all that much. Moreover, it’s questionable as to whether or not the frequency that travel nurses get credit checks will actually have much of an effect on their credit score.

That said, if you are concerned, then you can try to avoid them. For example, individual property owners run credit checks much less frequently than professional property managers. Vacation rentals, shared-spaces, hotels and motels hardly ever run credit checks. Therefore, you can focus on these properties as a way to avoid this issue.

Also, you can try to provide additional information to property owners in an effort to avoid hard credit checks . For example, you might try providing them with a copy of your contract to demonstrate income stability. Or, you can provide bank account statements if you’ve been able to save an impressive amount of money. These tactics won’t always work, but they’re worth a try if this issue is important to you.

It’s Difficult to Inspect Travel Nurse Housing

In most cases, you’ll be too far away to physically inspect prospective housing options. This presents a number of issues for you to be aware of.

First, you must be aware that property owners often display photos that make their properties appear more glamorous than they actually are. Additionally, it’s difficult to get a feel for the neighborhood when you can’t be present.

You can use Google Maps with Street View or Google Earth to get a better idea of how the property and neighborhood look and feel. Here are some free services that can help you get an idea of neighborhood safety and livability:

• City Protect

Uncertainty and Travel Nurse Housing

Uncertainty is another unique factor that travel nurses often contend with. Specifically, you will inevitably experience uncertainty about where you’re going to be working next and when you’re going to be there.

Uncertainty can be an issue when It comes to your initial housing search. Contract start dates change sometimes. Sometimes, contracts get cancelled before they start.

Free eBook: How To Negotiate Travel Nursing Pay

Uncertainty can also be problematic when it comes to transitioning from one contract to the next. This is because landlords typically want advance notice of when you’re leaving. They need time to rent the property in order to minimize their vacancy rates.

If you tell the landlord you’re going to stay and the hospital cancels your contract extension, then you could be on the hook for rental fees. If you tell the landlord you’re going to leave, but then your current hospital offers you a surprise contract extension, then you could be stuck with an unwanted move if someone else already rented your current property.

There’s no easy way around these issues. The best you can do is maintain excellent communication with all stakeholders.

Given that travel nurses are often remote when they engage in their housing searches, they are slightly more susceptible to scams. This is because many housing scams hinge on “sight unseen” components. Essentially, the scammers advertise a fake property and try to get you to send them money for it.

Scammers typically perpetrate their scams on classified websites like Craigslist. However, scams can also exist on sites like Facebook and even on vacation rental sites like Airbnb.

In this section, we’ll discuss how to spot potential housing scams. We’ll also discuss how to avoid scams.

How to Spot Travel Nurse Housing Scams

Housing scammers typically try to mimic the behavior of real landlords or property managers. Therefore, it’s not always easy to spot a scam. However, there are several characteristics to watch out for.

First, be careful with properties with prices well below the market. Scammers often advertise prices that are hundreds of dollars below market to attract more attention.

Next, evaluate the telephone situation. You should be suspicious of the property manager in the following telephone related scenarios:

• They can’t or won’t provide a telephone number
• They provide a Google Voice number (You’ll know because you’ll hear Google’s advertising when you call the number IF the subscriber has not modified Google’s default settings.)
• The provide another type of VOIP number.
• The area code does not match the area code of the property

You can use phone number lookup tools to make sure everything looks legit. IP QualityScore is one such service. It will show you whether the number is a Land, Wireless or VOIP number.

Common scam characteristics

Additionally, you should be leery of any property manager that can’t meet you in person. Of course, you are likely remote so you can’t meet them. However, if you get suspicious that you may be subject to a scam, then you can ask them to meet just to see what they say.

Next, a high percentage of scams originate in foreign countries. Therefore, watch out for housing advertisements that have poor grammar. Also, watch for advertisements that use British spellings like labour instead of labor or realise instead of realize.

Also, be suspicious of sob stories and other emotional appeals. For example, a scammer might tell you that they’re in another country and they need the money to return home to tend to a sick relative.

Similarly, watch out for extreme urgency. All property managers want to rent their properties ASAP. However, you should be suspicious of those who utilize overtly pushy sales tactics.

You should also be mindful of the time that communications are coming through from the property owner. If you realize that the property owner routinely responds at 3am local time, then they maybe in a different country.

Finally, you should immediately stop communicating with anyone that asks you to wire money. Wire transfers are non-refundable and can’t be stopped once transmitted.

Own your own skills checklists on BluePipes.

This goes for bank wires, Western Union, MoneyGram, Walmart’s money transfers, or any other type of wire transfer. It also goes for “Peer-to-Peer” payment apps like Zelle, Venmo and Cash App. In fact, these apps are specifically designed for sending money to people you know and trust.

2 Scenarios That are Particularly Difficult when You are Remote

There are two common housing scam tactics that are very difficult to deal with when you are remote. First, some scammers simply want your social security number, date of birth and bank account information. Rental property applications typically require all this information.

One common scam is when scammers require you to fill out a rental property application before viewing the property or meeting the property manager. If you are remote, then it’s very difficult to view the property and meet the owner in advance. Therefore, you will most likely need to complete the application prior to doing so.

Second, another common scam involves the scammer requesting money before you view the property. Again, if you’re remote, then you will most likely not be able to view the property before sending money.

Here again, you could request to view the property simply to test the property manager’s response. If they ask for money just to view the property, then you know it’s a scam.

How to Avoid Housing Scams as a Travel Nurse

Now that you know what to look for in order to avoid housing scams, you can greatly reduce your risk of getting trapped by them. However, there are countermeasures you can use to reduce your risk even further.

Secure Housing on Arrival

First, you can wait to secure your housing until you arrive at your destination. In this scenario, you stay in a hotel, motel or Airbnb when you first arrive. Then, you focus on finding your housing in the first few days after arrival.

Of course, you can make the process easier by researching the housing market and setting appointments in advance. While this approach is risky in other ways, it will help you avoid scams in nearly every case.

Verify the Property and the Landlord

Second, you can verify the validity of the property and the landlord. To begin, visit Google Maps and enter the property’s address. Next, use Street View to inspect the property and surrounding area. Alternatively, you can research the address on Zillow or Redfin . Make sure the pictures match those in the advertisement you’re responding to.

If all else fails, you can try using Google’s Reverse Image Search . This can possibly help you determine if the same images are being used for multiple different property listings. Simply enter the images from the advertisement into Image Search and view the results.

Next, you can research the landlord on Google and social media, especially LinkedIn. Always request a telephone call with the landlord. Even better, request facetime or a video conference. It’s even okay to ask for references like former tenants.

Finally, Furnished Finder offers a free Owner Verification Report. Simply visit this link , scroll down tto the “Free Owner Verification Report”, enter the property details and submit the request. They’ll email you with property owner information they retrieve from public records.

If the property is managed through a property management company, then investigate the company and the agent you’re communicating with. Make sure the agent’s phone number, address and email address match the Property Management Company’s website and Google listing. Call the property management office to verify that the agent you are speaking with is legit.

Utilize Most Vetted Resources

Third, you can utilize only the most reputable resources to find your travel nurse housing. Services like Airbnb , Furnished Finders , Apartment List and others like them typically vet property owners before allowing them to list. Additionally, they typically provide legitimate reviews from previous tenants.

Meanwhile, resources like Craigslist and Facebook are less secure. These platforms have very few preventive measures for scammers.

Finally, as we mentioned above, don’t ever wire money .

Now that we’ve covered most of the general information you need to know, we’ll take a look at the specific details of various housing options available to travel nurses.

“Extended Stay” hotels are excellent housing options for travel nurses who find their own housing. Extended-stay hotels are defined by the fact that they have a kitchenette in every room. Of course, this is a huge advantage over traditional hotels.

Unfortunately, many properties that do not have kitchenettes still refer to themselves as Extended Stays. Therefore, you must always inquire if the room includes a kitchenette.

Also, you must inquire about the specific features of the kitchenette. Some rooms include ovens, full-size refrigerators and dishwashers while others do not.

To be safe, don’t assume that an extended-stay’s kitchen includes anything. Ask about everything that is important to you. That goes for coffee makers, toasters, microwaves and anything else.

Another advantage of extended-stays is that they do not require a lease. This means you avoid the risk of having to pay to cover a lease in case your contract gets cancelled. That’s a huge advantage over traditional apartments even when the apartment agrees to a month-to-month lease.

Additionally, extended-stays do not require a security deposit. Also, they do not require credit checks. Of course, they are fully furnished. They are almost always pet-friendly.

Moreover, the utilities are already setup for you and the cost is included in the price. Often times, they even include amenities like laundry service, house cleaning, gyms, swimming pools, free breakfast and more.

Here again, be sure to inquire with each property about things like WiFi, parking and other amenities. The offerings vary greatly from property to property. Never assume they include anything.

In any case, all of these advantages serve to reduce your financial risk. They also save you tons of time!

Where can Travel Nurses Find Extended-Stays

The great news is that there are about 40,000 extended stay properties in the U.S. alone. Extended Stay America is probably the most popular operator of extended-stay hotels among travel nurses. That’s because they typically offer the most amenities for the best price. For example, most Extended Stay America Hotels include ovens and a free grab-and-go breakfast.

Discover why travel nurses are calling us their “secret weapon”.

However, there are tons of other extended-stay operators. Some of these operators have hundreds of properties across the country. Others operate a small number of properties in specific areas.

It can be difficult to find these properties, especially the smaller operators. Below is just a small list of options for you to consider:

• Extended Stay America
• Woodspring Suites
• In Town Suites
• Budget Suites of America
• Candlewood Suites
• Staybridge Suites
• Metro Extended Stay (example of really small operator)
• Homewood Suites
• Hyatt House
• HomeTowne Studios
• Residence Inn
• TownePlace Suites
• Hawthorn Suites

Most extended-stays are located in decent areas but some are located in less desirable areas. Therefore, you should always research the area using the same tools we listed above.

Additionally, most extended-stays have internal room entry. This means that the door to your room is on the inside of the building. This adds an extra layer of security. Again, be sure to ask about this if it is important to you.

How Travel Nurses can Negotiate with Extended Stay Hotels

It’s important to note that the hotel industry defines an “extended stay” as a stay of 5 days or more. Of course, travel nurses will stay much longer than 5 days if they stay for the duration of their contract. This means you can, and should, negotiate a more favorable rate than the rate you will see on the property’s website.

Discount codes for travel nurses

As a travel nurse, you may see discount codes for Extended Stay America and other properties floating around the travel nursing community and on deal websites like RetailMeNot . You are welcome use these codes.

However, we encourage you to contact the property directly and request to speak to the property manager. Or, if the property is a franchise, then request to speak with the property owner if possible.

You see, the discount codes are often part of a referral program. The person or business providing you with the referral code gets a referral bonus.

Discount negotiation for travel nurses

There is nothing wrong with this. However, it does represent a cost to the hotel in question. As a result, you can often get a much better deal by contacting the property manager directly.

You can even negotiate with multiple properties in order to achieve the best price. Doing this takes very little time and can save you hundreds, even thousands of dollars more than the coupon code depending on your length of stay.

To increase your bargaining power, tell them you’re a travel nurse and that there is a strong chance that you’ll be returning under similar circumstances in the future. If you stay at these properties enough, then you may get better discounts and even discounts on short term stays.

Also, it’s important to note that most hotel operators have rewards programs. You should definitely sign up for these programs when available. Just one long-term stay can add up to lots of rewards points!

Hotels and Motels for Travel Nurses

Standard hotels and motels are another option for travel nurses. However, we recommend using them only for short-term stays unless no other options are available.

Hotels and motels tend to be much more expensive. Moreover, they lack a kitchen so you end up spending much more money on food.

If you do choose to use them, then please note that many of the dynamics are similar to those we described for extended-stays. For example, you should negotiate rates on long-term stays.

Also, you should utilize rewards programs when available. In fact, if you use hotels regularly, then booking directly with the hotel using the rewards program almost always guarantees the best rate. That said, if you’re going to stay at a hotel for weeks, then contact the hotel directly to try and negotiate a special rate.

Create your free Travel Healthcare Resume on BluePipes!

Of course, you are undoubtedly familiar with hotel search engines and discount sites like Kayak , Booking.com and Hotel Tonight . These sites and others like them are fine to use for short-term stays.

“Corporate housing” is another option people bandy about the travel nursing industry. Typically, corporate housing comes as fully furnished apartments or condominiums. Corporate housing companies typically manage and service the properties.

It sounds great: Fully-furnished, turn-key apartments and condos for travel nurses. However, corporate housing tends to be cost prohibitive. According to CoStar Group, Inc , the average rate for corporate housing in the United States is $150 per day. That’s $4,500 per month! Our recommendation is to stay away.

However, if you want to research corporate housing, then here is a list of websites for your consideration:

• Corporate Housing by Owner
• CorporateHousing.com
• National Corporate Housing
• AHI Corporate Housing
• Key Housing
• Oasis Corporate Housing
• Suite America
• Fox Corporate Housing
• Blu Corporate Housing
• Churchill Living
• Traveler’s Haven

Renting an apartment or home directly with the property manager is at the other end of the spectrum from extended-stay hotels when it comes to travel nurse housing. Essentially, rentals tend to be the riskiest and most difficult options for travel nurses to work with.

To clarify, we are referring specifically to the act of renting an apartment or home directly with the operator, property manager or owner. We are not referring to sublets, vacation rentals, shared spaces or housing marketplaces like Airbnb.

Apartment lease terms are a problem

The majority of rentals require lease terms of 6 months or longer. In fact, they define “short term” as 6 months. It’s very difficult to find rentals that accept 3-month leases. It’s even more difficult to find those that accept month-to-month leases.

As a result, these options tend to be the most difficult and time consuming for you to find. Moreover, they typically hike the monthly rent by 10% – 50% to accommodate the short stay. Additionally, depending on the lease terms, you will risk a minimum of 30 days’ worth of expenses should your contract get cancelled.

Of course, you’ll also have to furnish the rental in most cases. You can use furniture rental companies like Brook Furniture Rental , Cort or Aaron’s . However, these options tend to be quite expensive with prices starting at $450 per month to furnish a 1-bedroom apartment.

Instead, you could furnish the apartment yourself on the cheap. I worked with many travel nurses who used Craigslist to furnish entire apartments for less than the cost of one month of a furniture rental company. They traveled with an air mattress for the bed.

Finally, you’ll also need to secure all the utilities yourself. You may even need to secure a washer and dryer in some cases if those items are important to you.

How to find Apartment Complexes and Home Rentals for Travel Nurses

As we mentioned above, it’s very difficult to find rentals that accept month-to-month or 3-month leases. If you enter search-terms in Google like, “short term lease apartment”, you’ll get tons of results that seem to be exactly what you’re looking for.

Unfortunately, when you speak with an agent, you’ll find out that they do not accept anything less than 1 year or 6-month leases in the vast majority of cases. Moreover, the vast majority of apartment websites do not publish their lease terms or prices.

Therefore, the best you can do is call around and ask. Here are some websites that are primarily focused on aggregating information on apartment operators so you’ll have all their information in one location:

• Apartment List
• Apartments.com
• ApartmentHomeLiving.com
• ApartmentFinder.com
• ApartmentGuide.com
• HotPads.com

Here is a list of websites that focus primarily on home rentals or have a mix of home and apartment rentals:

• Realtor.com
• HomeFinder.com
• RentCafe.com
• Rentals.com
• ColdwellBanker

Are Apartment Complexes and Home Rentals Good Options for Travel Nurses?

By now, you’re no doubt wondering why a travel nurse would choose to secure a traditional rental property. One way to look it is that you get good value relative to a hotel or corporate housing.

For example, I recently spoke with a travel nurse who spent $2,600 per month for a one-bedroom apartment in San Jose, California. I know this sounds like a lot, but San Jose, CA is one of the most expensive cities in the country. She estimated she was paying $2,850 per month including utilities.

That averages out to about $95 per day. Meanwhile, the published rates for Extended Stay America in the same area are $120 – $134 per day. You may be able to negotiate them down to $75 per day for your long-term stay.

That’s a difference of about $600 or 20%-30% more per month for the apartment versus the Extended Stay. You can expect a similar percentage difference in most major markets. And in some markets, you may be able to get this difference down to 15%.

Many people are fine paying 15%-30% more for a nice apartment versus an extended-stay hotel. Meanwhile, the apartment is much less expensive than corporate housing or a standard hotel. However, you still have the risk of being stuck with a lease in case your contract gets cancelled.

Consider alternatives

All of that said, we recommend that travel nurses shy away from traditional rental properties. In most cases, it’s simply too much of a hassle and risk for you to deal with.

If you want a fully furnished apartment or home, then you’re better off working through a niche service or a vacation rental service. We discuss these options below.

Alternatively, you should consider accepting company housing if you really want a furnished apartment. In fact, if you’re working with one of the largest healthcare staffing companies, then there is a very good chance that they get volume discounts on the apartments they work with. Therefore, they can secure a traditional rental at a lower cost than you can.  Here is a link to an article in which we discuss everything you need to about travel nursing company-provided housing .

Travel Nursing Couples and Rentals

It’s important to note that travel nursing couples face a unique set of circumstances that can make it worthwhile for them to secure traditional rental properties should they desire this option. Specifically, if both members of a traveling couple share housing from the same company, then the company is not supposed to give either of them a lodging stipend. Instead, they’ll add more money to your taxable rate or tax the stipend. That means both of you will lose out on the tax-advantage.

Additionally, couples can divide the labor and cost of securing the apartment on their own. This decreases the hassle and cost for each person. It also reduces the risk exposure for each person should the contact get cancelled.

Now that we’ve discussed the more traditional housing options, we can move on to some of the more creative options. These options include vacation rentals, shared spaces and sublets.

First, there are several ways you can use Craigslist for your travel nurse housing search. For starters, you can search through the advertisements in “rooms/shared”, “apts/housing”, “sublets/temporary” and “vacation rentals” under the “housing” section.

Second, you can place your own advertisements in the “rooms wanted” and “housing wanted” sections. We strongly recommend this approach.

Simply create a craigslist account and post an ad for the city/state that you are traveling to. For example, “Registered Nurse seeking accommodations for 13 weeks during a travel nursing assignment. Please respond via email with any options you may have.”

You’ll receive a lot of inquiries from people looking to rent out a room in their apartment or home. However, every once in a while, you’ll find a true gem. I worked with a nurse who secured a 1200 square foot, fully-equipped guest house for a 5500 square foot estate near West Hills, CA for $900 per month all-inclusive. I had another nurse sublet a posh condo in Sunnyvale, CA while the owner was traveling for 6 months in South America. It’s rare, but it’s possible.

While Craigslist has done a lot in recent years to prevent scams, you must still watch out for scams when you use the service. Please review the section above on how to avoid scams for more information.

Finally, it’s important to note that Craigslist has a native iOS application as well as a native Android application .

Other Classified Websites for Travel Nurses

Ultimately, Craigslist is a classified-ad service. Here are four additional classified websites you can try:

• Classifiedads.com
• Facebook Marketplace

ULoop warrants special consideration. This is because ULoop is actually a marketplace geared toward college students. In fact, you need a .edu email address to join.

The reason we list it here is that ULoop has a robust housing section that is full of sublets, shared-spaces and furnished rentals. You can browse the listings without an account. Moreover, the vast majority of listings provide full contact information for the property manager.

If there is a university in the area of your assignment, then ULoop is worth a try. Simply search for the university from ULoop’s homepage and you’ll be taken to the classified ads for that university.

Using Vacation Rental and Shared-Space Websites like Airbnb for Travel Nurse Housing

Vacation rental and shared-space marketplaces have become extremely popular in recent years. These options are great for travel nurses because they’re furnished and utilities are included.

In this section, we’ll discuss the general issues for travel nurses to consider when they use these services. Then, we’ll take a deeper look at the two most popular lodging marketplaces for travel nurses, Airbnb and VRBO. Finally, we’ll provide a list of vacation rental and shared-space websites for your convenience.

Travel nurses are Vacation Rental Power Users

Vacation rental hosts typically publish daily rates that fall between the rental market and the hotel market. That is, they’re not as cheap as renting, and they’re not quite as expensive as hotels.

However, it’s important for travel nurses to remember that they are power-users in the vacation rental market.  Travel nurses will typically stay 13 to 26 weeks. Meanwhile, Airbnb’s average length of stay is 4.3 nights.

As power-users, travel nurses face unique circumstances. First, it’s more difficult for travel nurses to find housing on vacation rental sites. Many hosts are not open to long-term stays for one reason or another. Moreover, many properties are already booked for some portion of your desired stay.

Don’t let either scenario stop you from reaching out to hosts for properties that you’re interested in. Every once in a while, a host will cancel future reservations in favor of the long-term stay. Moreover, you’ll find that some property owners who seem averse to long-term stays will change their tune when they discover that you’re a travel nurse.

The best approach is to message any property owner that has a property that even appears to be a good fit. The rate of response will be low. However, this “spay and prey” approach will save you time.

Second, as a power user, you should disregard the published rates. Upon your connecting with a possible lead, you should always ask them if they can offer a special rate given the duration of your stay. We’ve seen travelers get more than 50% off the published rate.

Next, it’s important to note that hosts typically do not post their properties on more than one of the major vacation rental sites. There is no information available as to whether or not they cross-post on smaller services.

For example, in 2014, HomeAway reported that only 6% of its listings could also be found on Airbnb. In 2019, AirDNA , a data analytics company, reported that 20% of the total number of listings on both Airbnb and HomeAway were listed on both sites.

Therefore, you should at least consider searching all the sites in order to find all the available options in your destination. Alternatively, you can search on vacation rental aggregators. These services aggregate listings from the various different vacation rental sites. Here is a list of the largest vacation rental aggregators we are currently aware of:

• HomeToGo.com
• Tripping.com

Search First ask Questions Later

Next, we recommend that you search first and ask questions later. This will save you tons of time. There’s no point for you to spend hours researching the neighborhoods and other granular details of each property when there is a very good chance that the property could be too expensive or unavailable.

Instead, use the platforms’ search tools to organize and save the options you’re interested in. Then, send a canned message explaining your situation and inquiring if the property is a viable option. This way, you spend time researching only those properties that are amenable to your requirements.

General Problems with Vacation Rentals

Next, it’s important to remember that rental properties sometimes have problems. The fact that your stays will be long-term means your chance of experiencing problems increases.

Meanwhile, many property owners manage their own vacation rentals. Moreover, many of them are in remote locations. There is rarely an onsite apartment manager who can handle issues immediately.

Therefore, it’s important to make sure that you know how the host handles problems when they arise. First, inquire directly with the host about this issue. Also, read the reviews for mentions of problems and how the host handled them.

Vacation Rental Taxes for Travel Nurses

Travel nurses should also be mindful of short-term rental taxes. As we mentioned above, these taxes vary dramatically by state, county and city. That said, there are some general issues specific to vacation rental services for you to be aware of.

First, some locations have laws that require vacation rental websites to collect and remit short-term property taxes. In that case, you will see the taxes as a line item in the price on the website.

However, most locations do not yet have laws requiring rental sites to manage the taxes. In some cases, there are no taxes, so there is nothing to worry about. In other cases, the property owner is responsible for managing the taxes.

Most vacation rental sites give their hosts the ability to add a tax amount in the system. If the host uses that service, then you will see the taxes as a line item in the price on the website.

Watch out for surprise tax bills

However, some hosts may try to collect the taxes outside the website. They might send you a bill. According to the Airbnb representative we spoke with, Airbnb has a policy that requires hosts to include taxes in the property’s description if they plan to collect taxes outside the system. Therefore, you should always check for that detail in the description. And, if you ever have a problem with this, then you can contact Airbnb to remediate the issue.

Unfortunately, we do not know how other vacation rental sites handle this matter. Please inquire with the host if this is important to you.

Next, let’s take a look at the two vacation rental services travel nurses use the most, Airbnb and HomeAway/VRBO. While vacation rental services are similar to one another, there are differences that travelers should know about in order to get the most out of them.

We’ll start with the most popular vacation rental site. Airbnb got its start with shared rentals. They eventually started listing entire properties. Now, reports indicate that more than two-thirds of the site’s listings are for entire properties.

Airbnb was originally focused on large urban areas like San Francisco and New York City. However, they now have a much wider reach. For example, a search for Omaha, Nebraska returned over 300 results.

That said, it’s probably still fair to say that Airbnb has more shared offerings and a larger stock of properties in urban areas than most other sites. Either way, they are definitely the largest with over 7 million properties worldwide .

Airbnb Long-Term Stay Policy

It’s important for travel nurses to understand that Airbnb has specific long-term stay policies and procedures. Airbnb defines long-term stays as stays of 28 days or more.

Hosts can select one of two long-term stay policies to apply to their properties. Their long-term stay policy is automatically applied to all long-term reservations.

However, you can negotiate special considerations with the host. Airbnb recommends that you use their messaging system to communicate about special considerations. This way, they can help mediate any disputes that may arise.

When you make a long-term reservation, you will see the total price for the entire stay. However, Airbnb will charge you only for the first month at the time you book the reservation. Then, they will charge you each month from the reservation start-date until the end of the reservation.

Long-Term Stay Cancellation Policy

When it comes to cancellations, there are 3 distinct time periods that travel nurses should be aware of. The first time period is before your stay begins. The cancellation policy during this timeframe varies depending on which of Airbnb’s 2 long-term cancellation policies the host chose.

If the host chose the Strict Long-Term policy, then you must cancel within 48 hours of booking, and the cancellation must occur at least 28 days before check-in to receive a full refund. If you cancel after that, but before your stay begins, then you will still have to pay for the first 30 days of the reservation.

If the host chose the Flexible Long-Term policy, then you can get a full refund if you cancel at least 30 days before check-in.

The second time period travel nurses should be aware of pertains to Airbnb’s “Guest Refund Policy”. Essentially, you have up to 72 hours after checking in to report problems to Airbnb that would cause you to want to cancel the reservation. Airbnb provides a specific set of qualifying issues. You can learn about those issues by reviewing Airbnb’s Guest Refund Policy .

Finally, if you need to cancel the reservation during your stay, then you must pay for the 30 days following the cancellation date or up to the end of the reservation, whichever is shorter. This essentially amounts to a 30-day notice. To cancel a reservation during your stay, you need to modify the reservation end date on Airbnb.

Negotiating Special Considerations with Hosts on Airbnb

With all this in mind, we can discuss some of the special considerations you might want to negotiate with your Airbnb host. First, you can try to negotiate a shorter notice period, 15 days instead of 30, for example. Airbnb will still charge you for 30 days, but the host can refund you.

If you’re short on cash, then you may be able to negotiate weekly payments. Unfortunately, we are not certain how this would work, but we have seen travel nurses who claim to have done it.

Next, you should evaluate the cleaning fees. Hosts control the cleaning fees. Therefore, you want to make sure that the host does not charge you more than is reasonable.

Finally, you may want to attempt to negotiate a non-refundable deposit in an effort to avoid various risks and charges. For example, offer the host a few hundred dollars to avoid any costs related to cancellation. We’re not huge fans of this idea, but many travel nurses use it.

How to Use VRBO for Travel Nurse Housing

VRBO is another vacation rental platform that is popular with travel nurses. Originally, HomeAway owned VRBO. Then, Expedia bought HomeAway and consolidated all of HomeAway’s brands into VRBO.

VRBO has over 2 million listings worldwide . It sounds much smaller than Airbnb, but VRBO does not allow shared spaces. They are “committed to offering a whole home experience”.

How Travel Nurses Pay on VRBO

VRBO’s policies and procedures for long-term stays are much different than Airbnb’s. In fact, VRBO does not have a dedicated long-term stay policy. Instead, the same rules apply for all lengths of stay.

There are several important issues for travel nurses to consider. First, VRBO provides hosts with three options for collecting payments . They can collect payments all at once, in two installments, or in three installments.

Hosts can also control what percentage of the total cost each payment is for. For example, the first payment could be for 20%, the second for 40% and the third for 40%.

However, VRBO charges the guest for ALL applicable taxes and fees for the entire reservation on the first payment. That means the first payment could be substantially larger for travel nurses.

Most importantly , VRBO requires guests to pay the full cost of the entire stay before the check-in date. Therefore, we strongly urge travel nurses to negotiate incremental bookings with their hosts. You should not pay for 13 weeks of rent in advance. There is simply too much risk involved.

How Can Travel Nurses Split Their Payments on VRBO

Start by asking the host if they will allow you to book the property in increments. The increments could be any number of weeks at time. However, we recommend that you not exceed 30 days.

For example, you might book the property for the first 30 days. Then, you book the next 30 days on some date that you and the host agree on. Each time you book, you will pay based on the payment plan and cancellation policy the host has selected. We discuss the cancellation policies below.

The host can manage the property’s availability using the instant-booking and block-scheduling features they have access to. This makes sure that the property does not get booked by someone else for the future dates that you plan to book it for.

Knowing how all of this works allows you to help the host figure it out if they don’t know how to do it already.

Now, it’s possible that the host is willing to give you an amazing deal if you book and pay for your entire stay all at once. If you choose this option, then we strongly encourage you to negotiate a 30-day notice. In this case, the host would allow you to provide a 30-day notice and give you a refund for any unused balance beyond the 30-day period.

However, you must know that the host could simply break the agreement and refuse to refund you. Again, this is why we recommend that you book in increments on Vrbo.

VRBO Cancellation Policy for Travel Nurses

In any case, you will be subject to Vrbo’s standard payment and cancellation policy. Vrbo’s standard cancellation policy lets hosts choose 1 of 4 payment/cancellation policies for their property.

This article will not cover each policy in detail. However, we urge you review the policies here . That said, we will cover some cancellation scenarios that travel nurses should be aware of.

Cancelling Before Your Stay Begins

If you have to cancel before your stay begins on VRBO, then you will be subject to whichever cancellation policy the host selected for that property. The strictest policy calls for no refund at all. The most lenient policy calls for a full refund if you cancel the booking more than 14 days in advance, a 50% refund if you cancel 7 days in advance and no refund if you cancel within 7 days of the start.

Cancelling After Your Stay Begins

Vrbo makes it very difficult for you to cancel your stay after it begins. You can submit a cancellation request to the host via the VRBO platform. However, the host is under no obligation to accept it. And remember, you’ve already paid for the full cost of the entire stay.

Even if the host does accept your cancellation request, Vrbo does not take any action to refund you. Only the host can refund you. If disputes arise, then you can try to handle them with Vrbo’s assistance or through formal legal channels.

As we mentioned above, there are many vacation-rental services that travel nurses might use to locate housing. Remember, the rules are different from service to service. Therefore, it’s imperative to do your research on things like cancellation policies and negotiating special considerations with the hosts.

Here is a list of general vacation-rental and share-rental services for travel nurses:

• TripAdvisor
• Flipkey (a TripAdvisor brand)
• Holiday Lettings (a TripAdvisor brand)
• HomeStay.com
• CouchSurfing
• Rotating Room

As we mentioned above, length-of-stay is the biggest problem you will encounter when you find your own travel nurse housing. You will undoubtedly encounter friction related to length-of-stay on any of the general housing services we listed above.

Furniture and utilities are also problems when you find your own travel nurse housing. However, you only face these problems when you engage in a traditional rental agreement.

The great news is that there are a few housing services that cater specifically to travel healthcare professionals. Essentially, these services help you avoid problems with furniture and length-of-stay. We’ll take a look at these services next.

How to Use Furnished Finder for Travel Nurse Housing

Furnished Finder and their subsidiary website TravelNurseHousing.com specialize in stays of 30 days or more. Therefore, they’re in the sweet-spot that travel nurses need. Additionally, Furnished Finder lists only furnished properties. They list both shared spaces and full units.

The easiest way to manage your travel nursing career.

Travel nurses can create a profile and search for housing options using Furnished Finder’s property map. When you find a property that matches your needs, you simply contact the host.

You can contact the host via Furnished Finder’s messaging system. Or, you can contact the host directly as most hosts provide their contact information in the listing.

Alternatively, you can submit a “Housing Request” on Furnished Finder. Essentially, you let Furnished Finder know what you’re looking for and they contact hosts with properties that match your needs. The host will contact you via Furnished Finder’s messaging system.

When you find a fit, you book the property directly with the host. Furnished Finder does not get involved with the transaction in any way which means there are no fees for travel nurses. However, Furnished Finder does vet the hosts and properties before listing them. This means there are safeguards to prevent scams.

Furnished Finder has over 25,000 listings on their site. We recommend using them for all of your housing searches. If you can’t find something there, then branch out to other options.

How to Use Transplant Housing for Travel Nurses

Transplant Housing is focused on meeting the needs of travel healthcare professionals. As such, hosts expect stays of 30 days to 6 months or more. Additionally, the site lists furnished properties of all types.

Overall, the website provides many of the same features as Furnished Finder. And, like Furnished Finder, the actual rental transaction takes place between the traveler and the host directly.

Transplant Housing has fewer listings than Furnished Finder. However, we highly recommend utilizing the service as they can simplify the search process immensely for travel healthcare professionals.

How to Use HouseStay for Travel Nurse Housing

HouseStay is another interesting option for travel nurses. The platform offers fully furnished apartments and homes for stays of 30 days or more. One of the key differences between HouseStay and Furnished Finder is that HouseStay manages the contracts and payments instead of having you work those details out with the property owner. Here is a link to their cancellation policies .

HouseStay has a smaller number of listings compared to other services. However, given that they specialize in stays of 30 days or more, they’re a good option for travel nurses to consider.

Facebook Groups for Travel Nurse Housing

There are a number of Facebook Groups devoted to travel nurse housing. Simply request to join and they will undoubtedly accept you.

Property managers can list their properties using standard group posts. They can also post their properties in the “Files” section of the group. You can expect that property owners are open to a travel nurse’s ideal length-of-stay given that the groups are devoted to the topic.

Travel nurses can browse the listings and conduct searches using the search feature Facebook provides for groups. Travel nurses can also post housing requests themselves and wait for property owners to respond.

While you may have some luck with these groups, the reality is that they are subpar resources for several reasons. First, the search features are inadequate. Facebook limits the number of search results they display. Moreover, Facebook Groups lack the robust search filters necessary to help you hone in on your desired housing characteristics.

Second, there are no safeguards to prevent scams in Facebook Groups. Moreover, some of the groups are “public” which means anyone can see all group members’ posts. This isn’t a big deal on sites like Craigslist where your identity is anonymous. But Facebook requires you to use your real identity.

Here is a list of Facebook Groups devoted to travel nurse housing:

• Travel Nursing: Places/Rooms For Rent
• Traveling Nurse Housing
• Travel Nurse Housing USA – Private & Shared Rooms, Apartments, Sublets
• Travel Nurse Housing – The Gypsy Nurse
• Travel Nurse Housing – Furnished Finder
• Gypsy Soul Travel Nurse Housing Options
• Nomadic Nursing – A Travel Nurse Housing Page
• Travel Nurse Housing Rentals by Landlords
• Travel Nurse Rooms for Rent
• Housing the country, one hospital at a time!

TravelingNurseCorporateHousing.com

Despite the name, TravelingNurseCorporateHousing.com isn’t strictly devoted to travel healthcare professionals. The website is owned by a company called Corporate Housing By Owner.

The advantage of this service for travel healthcare professionals is that it should display only properties that are willing to accept month-to-month lease agreements. Moreover, most of the options are already furnished. Additionally, many of the options include the cost of utilities and have all the basic services, such as cable and internet, already set up.

However, we’re not certain if CHBO is still actively managing TravelNurseCorporateHousing.com. That said, there are properties listed there, so it’s worth a shot.

As you can see, you have many options to secure your own travel nurse housing. Your level of flexibility will be a big factor in determining the time and cost of securing your own housing. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages. In every case, you need to make sure you cover all the bases so you’re not caught off guard with unexpected costs or responsibilities. We hope this article helps you avoid all the pitfalls and find the best options for you!

Related posts:

• Should You Take Travel Nurse Agency Housing or Find Your Own? This article covers all the issues travel nurses need to...
• Travel Nurse Housing – Advantages and Tips for Company Provided Housing In this blog post, we’ll take a look at the...
• The Ultimate Guide to Travel Nurse Agency Housing Accepting travel nursing company provided housing is more complicated than...

Yes, appreciate it. Thanks and keep up the great work.

Great article. I’m a real estate investor and a nurse and have only recently stumbled across this underserved niche of short term rentals. On average per month how many rental property owners per would you say reach out to you with this question? I’m currently brainstorming ideas on how to serve both of these groups by bringing them together.

We get about 10 property owners per month contacting us. We refer them to FurnishedFinder.com. I hope this helps!!

More options than I imagined. Thanks for all the useful information. Rick Cornelius

Good article with useful information. Mahalo!

Great information, thank you very much. Domenic Di Maggio

Thank you for providing this information! I currently only use Craigslist (for the last 10 years), but I may look into these other options!

We’re glad to hear the information is useful, Greg!

Hi Kelly ~ I did the same with Furnished Finder, what other websites did you use or that you find effective? Thanks for your help! Betsy

FYI, I tried using Furnished Finder and after spending almost an hour inputting a listing, there was a Surprise! fee of $99 to post. Not free.

Thanks for letting us know, Kelly! They must have changed their pricing since this article was posted. I’ll get the article updated. Thanks again!

Comments are closed.

Popular on bluepipes blog.

Discover Jobs

• Travel Nursing Jobs
• Travel Therapy and Tech Jobs

© Copyright 2012-2022 BluePipes, Inc

12 Best Places to Find Travel Nurse Housing

Other places to find travel nurse housing, travel nurse housing 101.

• How to Find the Best Travel Nurse Housing

Travel Nurse Housing FAQs

For  travel nurses , finding comfortable, safe, and affordable housing is a top priority. Unfortunately, the task is getting harder because inflation has led to rising rental costs nationwide. It’s important to understand your options housing options as a travel nurse, which is why we’ve put together this guide on the best places to find travel nurse housing. 

>> Click here to see available high-paying travel nurse opportunities!

Travel nurses can qualify for almost any temporary or short-term lodging. Some choose to stay at a hotel with various amenities, while others opt to rent a room in a private residence. Most cities offer plenty of possibilities for every taste, preference, and lifestyle. 

This post is meant to provide useful information and should not be relied upon to make decisions, nor does it contain legal advice. Listings are not endorsed, and no association or affiliation is implied.

1. Furnished Finder (Travel Nurse Housing)

Furnished Finder (FF) and its spinoff site, TravelNurseHousing.com, are the most popular among travelers. The company has catered to healthcare professionals needing short-term housing since 2014 and is used by more than 100 medical staffing companies. This site usually has the best options — even in cities with limited choices. Most FF hosts offer month-to-month deals, and terms are negotiated directly with owners. 

FF’s free research tool, the  Travel Nurse Stipend Calculator , shows you the average living expenses for each city. Also, renters can get a free Owner Verification Report to identify problems with the property or landlord. 

Fees:  Free to browse and book directly with the owner; landlords may assess a one-time cleaning fee, deposit (around ⅓ of monthly rent), and pet fee if applicable

Booking details:   Message the owner or send a booking request through the website to initiate

Pros:  Options in hard-to-find locations, free owner verification report, interaction with property owners directly

Cons:  Listings are not continuously monitored for accuracy and may be out of date; some owners may be unresponsive

Another popular site known for travel arrangements is Airbnb. The short-term rental site is known for vacation rentals, but travel nurses can use it to find housing through millions of listings in more than 100,000 cities. It’s the largest platform on our list for travelers. 

Search listings by type to book anything from yurts to cabins or treehouses, all with a homey feel. Airbnb hosts tend to offer perks like extra linens, stocked coffee bars, and even bicycles to use around town. The downside can be that prices and fees are higher compared to some sites on this list.

Fees:  Booking service fees are usually split between the host and guest; the service fees for travelers should be  under 14.2%  of the booking subtotal; hosts may charge for cleaning and pet deposits

Booking details:   Reserve instantly, check availability, or message AirBnB hosts through the website or mobile app to initiate

Pros:  Find unique stays; many comforts of home available at no extra charge, easy to use platform with direct booking capabilities

Cons:  More expensive due to fees; hosts can cancel your booking in rare cases; payment is required upfront each month and may not be  refundable

VRBO (Vacation Rentals By Owner) is another short-term rental site that connects travelers to property owners. Though it’s not a travel nurse housing site per se, the site offers millions of rental options with flexible cancellation policies. 

Since VRBO caters to vacation homeowners, properties tend to be higher-end. Create a  Trip Board to plan your next assignment, compare housing choices, and collaborate with other travelers.

Fees:  Owners set fees for each rental (such as cleaning, pets, and boat fees); VRBO charges owners  8% of the booking  for commission and payment processing

Booking details:  Click Book Now on the site or app, then agree to the terms and conditions to pay and secure the rental

Pros:  24-hour customer service availability and the platform allows partial payments

Cons:  The site charges more fees, which may be passed on to boarders; Cancellation policies are strict and may not provide refunds for cancellations

Corporate housing by owner (corporatehousingbyowner.com) is another popular resource for medical professionals looking for fully furnished short-term leases. This respectable website has been in operation since 2005. 

It offers a user-friendly browsing experience for professional clientele. There are plenty of corporate listings in major cities, with virtual or video tours. 

You can browse listings on your own or submit a no-obligation  housing request. When you send a request, the CHBO team searches for you and then sends a tailored list of properties that meet your budget and needs via email. The company also offers customer care by phone or online chat 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Fees:  No fee to search properties or contact owners; CHBO charges owners an annual or monthly fee for their listing. 

Booking details:   CHBO handles your rental agreement, background and credit checks, deposit, and rental collection

Pros:  24-hour customer service for maintenance, billing, or other problems; properties are professionally managed

Cons:  Monthly rates are on the higher end; CHBO requires full background and credit checks; the fee is expensive for owners to list properties, so you may not see as many options as other websites

5. Facebook Groups

Facebook groups can be a great place to find travel nurse housing, plus insider tips on where/where not to stay from other travelers. You could even find potential roommates if that’s what you want. To find groups for travel nurses, search for specific keywords, including:

“[City] travel nurses”

“Travel nursing: places/rooms for rent”

“Travel nurse housing rentals by landlords”

“Travel nurse housing rentals”

These online communities connect nurses with available housing, learn the locale, and make new friends. This is one we definitely recommend checking out. 

Fees:  Free

Booking details:  Only provides links to listings or tips, not a booking site

Pros:  Get unbiased first-hand experiences and suggestions from other travel nurses

Cons: Fewer listings than other platforms on this list; scammers can also join these groups

6. CraigsList (CL)

For most nurses who take the stipend, finding the most safe and comfortable housing at the lowest rate is the goal. That’s where Craigslist (CL) comes in. 

Wait, I know what you’re thinking. And the answer is yes. Nurses still use CL to find housing. The online directory has been around since the 1990s and is free to use. 

The problem is that most travelers will tell you that CL has more scams than other sites. So, be wary of the red flags we cover below. That said, you can typically find bargains on CL without the fees that other sites add in.

Fees:  Free 

Booking details:   Online listings provide details on how to contact property owners directly for booking

Pros:  Low rates, no fees

Cons:  Free listings are attractive to would-be scammers

Although Zillow is well regarded as the finest option to search for yearly leases or properties to buy, it will also have a fair number of short-term leases. To find them, search rentals by city, add “furnished”, and add the keyword “short term”. You can also add parameters for price, features, and even the type of housing.  

The best feature that Zillow offers over other sites on this list is third-party data about the neighborhood, including a  Walk Score and Bike Score. These walkability rankings can help you plan whether or not you’ll need a car and how you will get around town. It is a useful tool even if you don’t book through Zillow.

Fees:  Free to browse and apply; owners set deposits and fees for their properties

Booking details:  Send a message through the site to property owners/managers to start the process

Pros:  Provides lots of information for listings, including neighborhood data, comparable area rates, maps, and even details about local legal protections for renters 

Cons:  Limited short-term rentals for travelers; not designed for traveling professionals

Zumper is the largest privately owned rental platform in North America, boasting more than 178 million site visits annually. Zumper has a huge bank of listings because it links to additional sites, including VRBO, Evolve, and Rentals United. 

Properties on the Zumper platform also show the “neighborhood vibe” and rate the location’s parks, shopping, nightlife, and transit.

In March, the company announced  major expansions , including a  Flex Pass annual subscription for travelers. This annual membership gives travel nurses access to fully furnished short-term rentals with the best rates, waived security deposits, and dedicated booking support. The Flex Pass is $300 per year, but you can try it free for a limited time. 

Fees:  Rental applicants must  pay $30  for screening (background check, eviction history, and credit report), $10 additional to share the screening with multiple properties, and any additional application fee required by the property owner. 

Booking details : Apply online and submit a digital rental application and credit reports through Zumper’s screening service; you will be notified if you’re approved

Pros:  User-friendly mobile app provides real-time notifications when new rentals are added; offers various types of housing; try Flex Pass free for a limited time 

Cons:  You must pay for the ​​screening up front and could still be denied; inability to talk to the landlord about any issues in your history; you could only write an appeal letter 

9. Short Term Housing

ShortTermHousing.com focuses on 30-day corporate housing rentals for traveling professionals. This site has over 30,000 rentals in more than 6,000 US cities. It is worth checking out, but the rates you’ll find will be higher — starting at $2,800 per month. 

When you visit the website, click “Browse Our Furnished Apartments”, and you’ll be directed to a list of hospitals nationwide with links to “Furnished Housing Near Medical Centers”. This quick tip is an incredibly convenient hack to add to your travel nurse housing search. 

Users also have the option to submit a housing request and have a rental expert contact them. When you pick a property, Short Term Housing collects the deposit, schedules move-in, and sends the lease contract.

Fees:   Free to search and talk to rental experts; fees vary by property

Booking details : Complete a Rental Request to connect with a rental agent

Pros:  Furnished listings with all utilities included designed for working professionals

Cons:  Pricier options; must fill out a tedious rental request detailing your preferences, budget, etc.; unable to book with landlords directly or negotiate terms

10. National Corporate Housing

National is one of the largest corporate housing providers, with local teams in 27 cities across the US. It offers 4- and 5-star fully furnished housing options for working professionals. 

Corporate apartments have a full kitchen, access to laundry, paid utilities, cable/streaming services, and WiFi. And if you’re looking for top-notch customer service, this may be the place to look.  

National listings tend to be more expensive, but there are no hidden fees, and renters pay a flat rate month-to-month. Lease cancellations are permitted with a 15-day notice. This flexibility is great for travel nurses in case their contract is canceled. National Corporate Housing also offers a free  Rental Resource to help with travel nurse housing research. 

Fees:   Free searches and free virtual support; the properties set fees

Booking details : Complete a Request to Book, and a rental agent will contact you

Pros:  High-class accommodations, no dealing with the landlord, free rental resources and support, 24-hour emergency assistance.

Cons:  May not be covered by the standard stipend

11. HomeStay.com

HomeStay’s tagline is: “Live Like a Local, with a Local”. This platform offers travel nurse housing that is different from others on this post because it usually means a shared or private room in a family home. 

HomeStay is much like the company AirBnB started as a way to truly experience a locale by staying in a host’s home and becoming a part of the community. Think of accommodations for an exchange student. That means you won’t find private spaces here. 

HomeStay listings are priced much lower than the other sites on our list. You can find rooms for $30 per night or $900 monthly. Some hosts even include meals. Book directly with the host by sending a message and ironing out the details.

Fees:  Renters pay a 15% booking fee and 25% deposit upfront to secure their arrangement; deposits are refunded with a seven-day notice

Booking details : Message the host to confirm availability and ask questions. When your dates are confirmed, you can pay to reserve the space

Pros:  Most affordable option; staying with others makes traveling less lonely; “live like a local” and explore the community

Cons:   Less privacy

12. Travelers Haven/Blueground

Travelers Haven was formed in 2008 as a travel nurse housing site. Since then, it has grown to a formidable platform offering short-term rentals in all 50 states. According to the company’s website, over 3,000 nurses secure their housing through Travelers Haven each year. 

The company offers customized contracts with flexible terms, 24-hour support, and a customer portal to stay up-to-date on rental arrangements. Listings are not posted. Rather you must provide your contact information, and someone will contact you.

The company  joined Blueground , a corporate apartment rental site, earlier this year. The company plans  continued US growth  to over 20,000 cities over the next two years. Prices on Blueground are slightly lower for corporate-style apartments in desirable neighborhoods. However, these leases typically exclude utilities.

Fees:   No fee to submit a request; landlords can post for free, but Blueground charges a 6% commission

Booking details : Click “Find Your Stay” to have a rep call you

Pros:   Travelers Haven has flexible lease terms and all-inclusive accommodations; no searching; it’s like using a broker that will find options for you; the network is growing with new rentals each day

Cons:  Travelers Haven listings are hidden; Blueground listings exclude utilities

This list was recently shared in a  Reddit thread  and gives a long list of other places to find travel nurse housing. 

• RotatingRoom
• Apartment List also has a  Cost of Living Calculator
• Hello  Landing
• Transplant Housing
• Furnished Apartments
• Corporate Housing
• Housing Helpers
• ForRent.com
• Travel Housing Pro
• CozyCozy is another site that lets you compare listings from AirBnB, VRBO, booking.com, Trip.com, Expedia, and more.

If you’re not quite ready to secure a place to stay yet and are still trying to understand what travel nurse housing is, read on for a full overview of what it is, what’s included, and what to watch out for. 

What is Travel Nurse Housing?

Travel nurse housing is the short-term living arrangement that travelers make for a temporary move to a new city on assignment. A short-term rental agreement is a great solution for nursing professionals who need a comfortable and safe place to stay while working away from home. In general, travel nurse housing accommodations offer a private bedroom, bathroom, kitchen, and living area for relaxing or socializing.

Travel nurses can choose to stay in private or shared housing. A benefit of sharing travel nurse housing is the chance to meet other travel nurses and share experiences. Nurses who travel with others often make lasting connections.

What’s Included in Travel Nurse Housing?

Travel nurse housing arrangements usually offer basic amenities such as WiFi, laundry facilities, and access to local stores and restaurants. Housing options may include on-site luxuries like pools, lounges, or gyms. 

Upscale travel nurse housing may include 24-hour concierge service, housekeeping, and security alarms. 

Nurses traveling with their furry friends can find pet-friendly travel nurse housing.

Other travel nurse housing amenities to look for include:

• Fully-furnished
• Kitchenware, including pans, silverware, glasses, etc
• Appliances like toasters and microwaves
• Bedding & all linens (two sets are nice!).
• In-home washer and dryer
• Designated parking spaces
• High-speed internet connection 
• Secure access
• The right location!

Housing accommodations vary from city to city. And for most assignments, finding fully furnished apartments in prime neighborhoods with all of the conveniences a travel nurse could need is possible. The challenge may lie in finding housing to fit the budget.

Agency Housing vs. Stipend for Travel Nurse Housing

When it comes to travel nurse housing, there are two main options for nurses: 

Agency-placed housing

A stipend for housing

There are advantages and disadvantages to each depending on your situation.

Agency Housing for Travel Nurse Housing

• Less stress
• No out-of-pocket or upfront costs for deposit, fees, etc
• Travel agencies may lease multiple units at a time, meaning they can get discounted rates nurses won’t find. That usually means that agency-provided housing is a better living experience, with professional management and desirable locations. 
• Few, if any, options
• Inability to negotiate lower living expenses
• Agency-placed housing means that the travel  nursing  agency covers the cost of housing (usually an apartment or rental home) while a nurse is on assignment. This is the simplest way to secure housing. 
• Nurses forfeit some of their preferences as well as the housing stipend. As traveler Kelli Leach puts it, “Agencies send you  two to three housing options  to choose from (if available and if you ask), but ultimately, they’re going to place you where is most convenient for them (typically what is currently available and the cheapest).” 

Stipend for Travel Nursing Housing

• More choice
• Possibility to pocket additional pay. A stipend for travel nurse housing means that the agency gives the nurse tax-free money (a stipend) to cover their housing expenses while on assignment. This could range from hundreds to thousands per month. For some, it is the more attractive option because it lets the nurse choose the housing and budget as they see fit. If you find cheaper housing on your own in a room, basement, or condo, you can pocket the rest of the stipend tax-free.
• More responsibility, effort, and leg work to find short-term housing
• You also get more flexibility in contract duration. You set the lease term. That means you can spend more or less time in the city — before or after the contract — if you want. 
• Picking the stipend is more risky, though. If you choose the stipend but don’t find a place in your budget, you could pay more out of pocket.

Overall, both agency housing and stipends for travel nurse housing have advantages and drawbacks. So weighing the options and deciding which best suits your needs is important.

Traveling Nurse Housing Scams to Watch For

Unfortunately, con artists try to take advantage of visitors in unfamiliar towns. If you’re not cautious, you could become the victim of a travel nurse housing scam. Through internet adverts and transactions, shady people pretend to be landlords in order to mislead potential renters. They want your money or personal details and may or may not have a property for lease.  

Although some housing websites vet landlords and property owners, detecting and preventing every form of fraud is tricky. According to the Better Business Bureau (BBB), there are  two main housing scams to know about.  

Bogus Property: The con is that there is no place to rent.  A listing might contain an address, but it may not match street-view photos from Google Maps. More than 5 million people have lost money in this scam. 

Hijacked Ad: In this scenario, there is (or was) a place for rent, but an imposter has copied the listing and put their details as the owner/manager.  The BBB calls this the most common scam involving rentals.

Travel Nurse Housing Red Flags

In most cases, it’s easy to spot red flags in these travel nurse housing scams. Fraudsters often use an unusual story about why they can’t show you the place. Still, they’ll pressure you to send money to hold the property. Other potential red flags to watch for include:

• The owner is not upfront or unclear about the terms, fees, and other details
• The price is way below similar properties in the area
• The property owner lives locally but refuses to meet in person
• Unusual grammar in text/email communications 
• Names on the listing and public records do not match or don’t match the person you’re dealing with
• The owner insists on payment through a wire transfer or to an international account
• Ad images are poor quality, or there are only one or two.
• The landlord is overly eager to strike a deal before any paperwork or background information.
• The owner wants you to sign or pay immediately.
• Suspicious links are sent via email or text (these could be phishing attacks)

Consider these tips when searching for the right rental housing as a travel nurse. If you  run into a scam , report it to the  BBB ScamTracker  and the  Federal Trade Commission . 

How to Find the Best Travel Nurse Housing 

One of the most important aspects of your salary package is housing. Thankfully, more platforms are catering to travel nurses. To attract healthcare workers, most property owners offer similar accommodations and incentives. However, terms, prices, location, and flexibility can make or break a deal.

We hope you found these pointers helpful and use them on your next assignment to find the perfect housing for your next travel nurse adventure! 

How much should I spend on housing as a travel nurse?

• Experts advise keeping your housing costs to less than 30% of your gross monthly income.

Do traveling nurses get a housing stipend?

• In some cases, they do. When they accept a travel nurse assignment, they can accept agency-arranged housing or a stipend.

Is renting to traveling nurses worth it?

• Yes. Nurses make great tenants because they are gainfully employed and have already been subjected to background checks and regular or frequent drug tests through their employers. Nurses are also the most trusted professionals, with a reputation for being dependable and effective communicators.

How do travel nurses afford housing?

• Nurses can accept housing paid for by their staffing agency or take a housing stipend. Those who take a stipend can use it however they see fit, whether renting a room on a website or booking an expensive corporate apartment and paying the difference.

Sarah S. Falcone, BSN, RN, is a nurse and health content writer in Fort Worth, TX. She has worked in various settings, including Med-Surg and L&D, but home health has her heart. Sarah is a passionate advocate for moving advanced levels of care to the home, where her clients can safely receive medical treatments they need, with greater satisfaction and comfort. She focuses on patient experience, outcomes, and advancing clinical models using innovative technology to serve patients better. Sarah draws from 15 years of practicing patient care and nursing leadership, to share her own nursing experiences and expertise online. Connect with her on LinkedIn !

Plus, get exclusive access to discounts for nurses, stay informed on the latest nurse news, and learn how to take the next steps in your career.

By clicking “Join Now”, you agree to receive email newsletters and special offers from Nurse.org. We will not sell or distribute your email address to any third party, and you may unsubscribe at any time by using the unsubscribe link, found at the bottom of every email.

AirBnB Travel Nurse

As we face a global pandemic together, travel nurses and other medical professionals are keeping the medical system afloat in these difficult times.  They join the work force of Americans that is keeping the entire U.S. running smoothly behind the scenes (such as truck drivers, grocery store employees, and more).  Brave travel nurses are accepting assignments in hard hit areas that need the extra personnel despite the risk it poses to their own health. Many of those travelling right now have taken advantage of the new short term rental market available, resulting in a much needed army of “AirBnB Travel Nurses.”

What’s an AirBnB Travel Nurse?

AirBnB’s vacation property rental market practically disappeared overnight with borders closing and nationwide quarantine orders.  They have been able to shift gears quickly to help provide housing for those essential workers that continue to help us stay healthy.  AirBnB travel nurses have been able to take advantage of listed homes that aren’t normally available to them for 3-6 months periods while they are on assignment (normally they aren’t available or are too expensive because they are priced for vacation stays).  This way, travel nurses and other healthcare professionals have the peace of mind that they have a convenient and comfy place to stay when they arrive at a new job. 

Providing a safe haven for our heroes. 

Many healthcare professionals have heroically agreed to travel to new places across the nation to address the huge burden certain hotspots are experiencing.  They are providing much needed relief to areas where the local medical community is trying to hang on (as they do their best to treat the sick).  Thus, the least the community can do is provide them with high quality housing.  Nurses and healthcare professionals have been happy to take advantage of this housing opportunity .  

AirBnB provides an opportunity for both travel nurses and home owners.

If you are a traveling nurse, you now have many options.  You can search directly through mega-platforms like AirBnB or more local travel nurse catered sites like Transplant Housing to see what options you have at your next assignment.  As you make the decision to go to a new assignment, don’t let the worry about where you will stay loom over your head.  And on top of that, find a place that offers you a nurturing environment so you can feel refreshed on days off.   Find a place you love and then focus on staying healthy for yourself and your patients. 

What to look for in an AirBnB as a travel nurse:

There are many options out there right now for a travelling nurse or healthcare profession.   Keep these details in mind:

• Dates of availability
• Furnishings to help you settle in
• Amenities for maximizing your stay
• Pet policies
• Available outdoor space (more important than ever)
• Overall safety

Additionally, as travel nurse, if you own a property yourself don’t forget that you can also rent out your own home to another professional that may be coming to fill a specific need in your area.  

A brand new market. 

There have always been travel nurses and healthcare professionals in need of housing.  Even when this pandemic is over, they will still be traveling and in need of a “home away from home.”  Whether you are a home owner or a travel nurse, take advantage of the new opportunities now available in this rental environment!

Related Articales

• Organizations
• Publications

Black Nurse Launches Service Similar to Airbnb — But For Travel Nurses!

Contact Form

Travel Nurse + Allied Health Professional Housing Guide

So, you're diving headfirst into the world of travel nursing or allied health job s? Welcome! You've sealed the deal, landed an assignment that makes your heart sing, and you're all set, right? But wait... Where are you going to live?

Uprooting and moving to a new place every few months sounds exhilarating, but it's not without its share of challenges. Especially when it comes to figuring out housing. Whether you’re a pro at this or just dipping your toes in, here's a guide to make the quest for your perfect temporary home a bit smoother.

Housing for Healthcare Professionals  

Alright, before we dive deep into your housing choices, let's chat about what makes a place feel just right for you. Fancy a spot that's a hop, skip, and jump away from your workplace? Or maybe you're dreaming of a quiet corner in a residential area. And, how about those amenities - can't forget about those! Oh, and are you sticking around for a short gig or hanging your hat for a while? These are the details we'll need to pin down.

For our newbies in the travel healthcare world: Here's a quick 101! Travel nursing housing is basically where you'll call home while on assignment. Sometimes an agency, like Trusted, rolls out the red carpet for you, giving you a discount on our favorite housing site . Or you might prefer scouting out your own spot. But remember, it's usually all about short-term stays that are easy on the pocket and already stocked with the essentials for your stay!

Housing Choices for Travel Nurses and Allied Health Pros

Selecting a comfortable and convenient place to stay during your assignment is crucial to ensure both your professional success and personal well-being. Knowing your options can ease the process. Let's dive into these housing choices designed specifically for the unique needs of traveling healthcare workers.

Finding Your Own Housing

If you're the type who enjoys the thrill of the hunt and values autonomy, securing your own accommodation could be a great fit. This approach allows you to tailor your living situation to your preferences. 

A significant advantage of this option is that your agency might offer you a more substantial housing stipend since they aren't directly providing lodging. This stipend can help offset the costs, and if you find a deal, you might even pocket some extra cash! Here are some options to choose from: 

• Exploring House-sharing: In the digital age, house-sharing platforms like AirBnB and VRBO are taking center stage. Not only do these platforms offer homey comforts (hello, full kitchens!), but they also offer a unique lens into the city's authentic vibe. However, it's wise to skim through reviews and photos to find your perfect fit and even negotiate rates that sync up with your travel stipend.  Don’t be shy about sending the host a message to explain your situation - hosts often welcome guests planning extended stays!
• RV Living: Rolling with an RV offers a blend of adventure and convenience. It's a home on wheels, letting you park near medical facilities or choose a scenic spot for relaxation after a long shift. If you are interested in learning more, check out one of our own doing just this ! 

Agency-Provided Housing

Some travel healthcare agencies offer housing as part of their employment package. This option can be convenient, relieving you of the stress of securing your own lodging. However, there are trade-offs. Since the agency arranges the housing, you may have limited choices in terms of location, type of housing, or amenities. 

It's important to inquire about the specifics, such as the living conditions, utility coverages, and the proximity to your work location. Also keep in mind that if your agency is footing the bill for your accommodation, you may not receive a housing stipend in your pay package.

Extended-Stay Hotel Living

For those who appreciate the amenities and services hotels provide, but desire a more homely feel, extended-stay hotels strike a perfect balance. These establishments are equipped with kitchen facilities, allowing you to whip up your meals, and often come with regular housekeeping services to maintain cleanliness. 

Furthermore, extended-stay hotels provide the added perks of hotel living, like gym access, laundry facilities, and sometimes even complimentary breakfasts. This option might be ideal for professionals who work in stretches, allowing them to stay for their shifts and then return home in between assignments.

Partnering Up with Fellow Travelers

Bunking with fellow travel nurses or allied health professionals offers numerous benefits. Financially, sharing accommodation means dividing rent and utility bills, which can make high-demand areas more affordable. Socially, it's an opportunity to bond with like-minded individuals who understand the unique challenges and joys of your profession. 

Together, you can explore the new city, share commuting tips, or simply relax after a demanding shift. Having a roommate in the same field can provide both companionship and professional camaraderie in an unfamiliar environment. 

Make sure you join the Trusted Community to find potential travel buddies and roommates! 

Considerations For Your Short Term Stay

As you set out on your next grand adventure, it's time to play a little game of stay-and-play Tetris. Where you hang your hat – er, scrubs – is crucial to feeling right at home, even if it's just temporary. From the duration of your stay and the neighborhood vibes to budget-friendly finds and the perfect floorplan, we've got the blueprint for your perfect stay.

How Long Are You Staying?

The time you'll be spending in a place really sets the stage for your housing decisions. Popping in for a short stint? You might lean into the ease of extended-stay hotels. If you're planting roots for a bit longer, a space that feels more like home, with a cozy corner to sip your morning coffee, might be up your alley.

Where's Home Base?

When you're figuring out where to drop your bags, it's not just about the four walls. Dive into a bit of neighborhood detective work! If late-night shifts are in your future, you'll want an area that's safe at all hours. And hey, who doesn't want a grocery store nearby for those impromptu ice cream runs?

Dollars and Cents

Let's chat budget. Whether you're splurging on a swanky pad or hunting for the best deals in town, your wallet's comfort is as important as your own. And remember, always sneak a peek at the hidden costs – like deposits and those sneaky cancellation fees.

What's in the Package?

In today's world, housing isn't just about a roof and a bed. Maybe you're eyeing that speedy Wi-Fi for late-night study sessions, or perhaps a gym to keep up with your fitness goals. And for our fur-parents out there, a pet-friendly spot is non-negotiable. So, what's on your amenity wishlist?

It's All About Space

Whether you're flying solo, bringing the fam, or thinking of a roommate setup, the size and vibe of the space are key. Dreaming of Sunday brunches? A spacious kitchen is a must. And having enough bathrooms? Well, that's just morning-routine harmony.

Flexing Your Lease

Traveling healthcare roles come with their own set of unpredictabilities. So, when you're sealing the deal on your new digs, a flexible lease can be your best friend. Whether it's a breezy month-to-month arrangement or a contract that doesn't freak out if things change, flexibility is gold.

How to Find Travel Nurse Housing 

Finding the right housing platform can be as crucial as the actual house hunt itself. Over the years, numerous sites have sprung up catering specifically to the unique needs of travel nurses and traveling allied health professionals. At Trusted, we prioritize platforms based on a variety of factors, including user-friendliness, breadth of listings, reliability of reviews, and the responsiveness of hosts or property managers. 

Here's our curated list of the best travel nurse housing sites that have consistently met or exceeded our standards, ensuring that our healthcare professionals find a comfortable home away from home.

• Wear the crown of modern housing with Landing, the reigning champion of flexible, furnished, short-term abodes.
• Unlock $300 off on stays spanning more than 90 days using Trusted's signature code: TrustedHealth300 . The cherry on top? Use this code for all your subsequent bookings!
• Tailored privileges for Trusted healthcare professionals include a devoted Landing account manager, a reduced 14-day termination notice, and waived fees.
• From bustling metropolitans to serene outskirts, they're ever-expanding their territories, especially in travel nurse hotspots.

The Trusted Circle

• Engaging with other travel nurses who have lived in a particular area to gain valuable information about different neighborhoods, commute times, local amenities, safety, and living costs
• Find other travelers who might be looking for roommates in the same city to save on rent! 
• Hear honest reviews or feedback about your peers experiences with certain landlords, property management companies, or even specific housing units, helping you make informed decisions! 

Furnished Finder

• No need for furniture; every listing comes move-in ready.
• Specially curated for short-term stays for traveling healthcare professionals.
• Connect directly with homeowners for a seamless experience.

Travel Nurse Housing

• Engage with a vibrant community on their website and Facebook group.
• Real-time updates from property owners and fellow nurses.
• A bustling digital marketplace where travel nurses are the priority.

Airbnb / VRBO :

• Venture into platforms renowned for diverse and global accommodation options.
• Both platforms offer a plethora of listings, from private rooms to entire homes, ideal for varying stay durations.
• These sites are particularly beneficial for nurses eager to immerse themselves in local experiences. Regular user reviews provide valuable insights; it's recommended to review them to avoid potential scammers.

The Gypsy Nurse on Facebook :

• Engage with a passionate online community that's tailor-made for traveling healthcare professionals.
• Live discussions, shared experiences, and housing recommendations are the norm here.
• As one of the most extensive and active Facebook groups for travel nurses, it's a treasure trove of shared knowledge, camaraderie, and invaluable housing leads.

Hotel Engine :

• A secret gateway for Trusted Nurses, this exclusive platform unlocks doors to over 700,000 luxury yet affordably priced hotels globally.
• A hassle-free booking journey awaits: no contracts, no fees, and absolutely no minimum stay hitches.
• Double dip on savings by stacking HE Rewards with your favorite hotel loyalty programs. Craving assistance? Their 24/7 U.S.-based Member Support team is just a call away.
• Check it out now: Set up your Hotel Engine account . 

Travelers Haven

• Dive into a world tailored for traveling healthcare professionals.
• Extensive listings and intuitive tools make housing hunts a breeze.
• Experience the comfort of home wherever your travels take you.

Mapping Out Your Housing Journey as Travel Nurse or Allied Pro

As the adage goes, timing is everything, especially when hunting for the right housing as a traveling healthcare professional. Begin your search for your next assignment roughly six weeks before your current one wraps up, paving the way to dive into housing possibilities immediately afterward. 

By doing so, you're granting yourself a head start, ensuring you don't end up in a last-minute scramble. Even better? If you’re aware of your next destination a tad earlier, jump on the housing hunt sooner. A pro-tip to keep in mind: opt for month-to-month leases. This flexibility means that if there's an unexpected twist in your nursing contract, you're not left footing a bill for a place you no longer need. Smart planning is, after all, the best way to ensure a seamless transition from one assignment to the next.

Making Your Temporary Residence Feel Like Home

Even in short-term housing situations, it's important for traveling healthcare professionals to feel a sense of comfort and belonging. After all, it's not just a place to sleep; it's where you'll unwind after demanding shifts, celebrate personal milestones, or even combat occasional homesickness. Here's how to ensure your temporary residence feels a bit more like "home."

• Personal Touches: Even if you’re only staying for a few months, adding personal touches can make a significant difference in how a place feels. Consider packing a few cherished items like:
• Photos: Whether they’re of loved ones, pets, or memorable moments, photos can bring warmth to any space.
• Comfort Items : This could be your favorite blanket, pillow, or even a cherished mug for your morning coffee.
• Decor: Removable wall decals, curtains, or even a rug can add personality without damaging the property or violating your lease terms. ‍
• Organize Your Space: Even if you're living out of suitcases, organization can help your place feel less temporary. Using storage bins, shoe organizers, or even temporary shelving can ensure everything has a place, making daily routines smoother. ‍
• Get to Know the Area: Familiarize yourself with your surroundings. Locating the nearest grocery store, coffee shop, park, or gym can make your stay more convenient and enjoyable. Ask locals or colleagues for recommendations; you’d be surprised at the gems they might direct you to. ‍
• Connect with Neighbors: Introduce yourself to neighbors or others in your housing complex. Not only does this make for a friendlier environment, but they can also be invaluable resources for local tips and advice. ‍
• Safety First: Being in a new area, especially if you're unfamiliar with the surroundings, means it's crucial to be aware of safety. Check that all doors and windows lock properly, and consider getting a portable security system or door jammer for added peace of mind. ‍
• Embrace the Temporary: Remember, while it's nice to make your space feel homely, it's also temporary. This means you can experiment with different layouts, decor styles, or even lifestyles without a long-term commitment.

Wrapping Up Your Housing Hunt

Well, there you have it – a whirlwind tour of housing options for the always-on-the-move healthcare worker! From the charming intimacy of house shares to the reliable comfort of hotels, and from the nomadic joys of RV life to the unparalleled flexibility of month-to-month leases, the world of travel nurse housing is as diverse as it is exciting. 

Remember, finding the right spot to hang your stethoscope is all about planning, research, and a touch of adventure. Keep our tips in mind, lean into that wanderlust spirit, and you'll surely find a space that feels just right. Here's to new cities, new experiences, and, of course, that perfect home away from home. Safe travels and happy housing hunting!

Let's start building the life you want.

We're here to help, find your first travel nursing job with trusted, travel nursing basics, travel nursing in detail, browse high paying travel nursing jobs.

Community Center

Resource center, help center.

• Mark Topic as New
• Mark Topic as Read
• Float this Topic for Current User
• Printer Friendly Page

Attracting travel nurses to my Abnb

• Mark as New
• Who Liked this post
• Report Inappropriate Content
• All forum topics
• Previous Topic

never-displayed

More from Help with your business

Low Season strategy

Low listing visibility - no bookings for more than three wee...

Starting Host | Looking to Increase Reservations

Help with guide tour

Dry calendar for a while. Need help in understanding how to ...

Hire a super host in Davenport FL

Explore topics for hosts like you, ask about your listing, advice on your space, support with your bookings, help with your business, community cafe, host circle, explore resource center articles.

Listings tab: New tools to manage and showcase your listing

New dashboard gives you a clear view of your earnings

Guest Favorites: Most-loved homes according to guests