The Complete Guide To Temporary Housing During Long Renovation Processes

Renovating your home can be a thrilling yet challenging experience, especially when the upgrades are extensive enough to require moving out. Finding suitable temporary housing during long renovation is crucial to maintaining a normal life while your dream home is being made. This guide provides practical insights to help you navigate this essential aspect of home improvement smoothly.

What Are You Looking For In A Temporary Home?

Before starting the search for temporary housing, it’s important to determine what you need. Consider the expected duration of your renovation—will it be a couple of months or over a year? Space is another critical factor; do you need multiple bedrooms for a family, or is a studio apartment sufficient? List your must-haves, like pet-friendliness or accessibility features, to avoid compromising on essential needs.

What Are The Types Of Temporary Housing Available?

Several housing solutions can cater to your temporary needs:

• Rental apartments: Many communities offer leases with terms as short as a month, which is ideal for renovation timelines that aren’t set in stone.
• Extended-stay hotels can be surprisingly affordable, especially if you negotiate a rate for a longer stay. They offer added benefits like housekeeping, utilities, and furniture.
• Vacation rentals: Using services like Airbnb can provide a homelike environment and the flexibility to choose a place that closely matches your living conditions.
• Modular homes: If your property has space, temporarily setting up a modular home can keep you very close to the action, allowing you to monitor the renovation progress firsthand.

Budget for Temporary Housing

Setting a budget for temporary accommodation is critical. On average, you might spend anywhere from 25% to 50% of your usual monthly housing cost, depending on the type and location of the housing. But if you want something luxurious, you can expect to pay as much as you pay for housing usually. It’s wise to shop around and compare prices and amenities. Some landlords may offer discounts for longer stays, so don’t hesitate to ask for a better deal.

Key Features to Look For in Temporary Housing

When choosing your temporary housing, prioritize locations that offer convenience and comfort. Look for features that make a long-term stay bearable.

Ensure the place has a functional kitchen, laundry facilities, and enough living space. An internet connection is also crucial if you or family members need to work or study from home.

The proximity to your renovation site is important. Staying nearby can save you time and stress by simplifying the commute to check on progress or meet with contractors. Additionally, being close to schools, parks, or shopping centers can maintain a sense of normalcy.

What Should You Know About Lease Agreements and Rentals for Temporary Housing? 

Understanding lease agreements is key when selecting temporary housing during long renovation processes. Opt for a lease that offers flexibility in terms of duration and potential early termination, if necessary. Many landlords and rental agencies offer short-term rentals specifically designed for situations like renovations, which can be terminated or extended based on the progress of your home improvements.

How Can You Live Comfortably in Temporary Quarters?

To make the most of your stay in temporary housing during long renovation, focus on making the space feel like home. Since you might live there for a considerable period, comfortably settling in is essential. And since most people will likely rent a smaller place to save money, you must also try to make the most of your limited space. Try the following:

• Bring personal items that evoke a sense of home, like photos, blankets, or favorite books.
• If space allows, invest in storage solutions that keep the area uncluttered.
• Establish a routine that helps maintain normalcy for you and your family.

Live Comfortably By Eliminating Clutter

When renovating your home and moving into temporary housing, one often overlooked aspect is the sheer volume of belongings that need to be accommodated. Many people underestimate how much they need for a temporary stay, leading to a cluttered and uncomfortable living environment in their temporary space. 

That is where the benefits of renting a storage unit become obvious. Renting storage can significantly extend your living space by keeping non-essential items out of your temporary residence. Also, renting a storage unit is typically more cost-effective than paying for a larger apartment. These compelling reasons to rent storage make it a practical solution not just for ease of living but also for budgeting. In the end, storage can help ensure that your temporary housing situation remains spacious and comfortable, allowing you to focus more on the excitement of your home renovation project.

Coordinate Between Renovation and Moving

It is crucial to maintain a smooth transition between your temporary housing and home renovation. Regular communication with your contractors will help you stay updated on the renovation’s progress and adjust your temporary housing plans accordingly. That might mean extending your stay in a rental or moving back sooner than planned.

Set up weekly check-ins with your renovation team to discuss timelines and any adjustments needed.

Communicate openly with your temporary housing provider to discuss potential extensions or changes in your rental agreement.

Resources and Help for Finding Temporary Housing During Long Renovation

Finding the right temporary housing can be daunting, but several resources can simplify the process:

• Online Rental Platforms: Websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and other rental platforms offer various temporary housing options suited to various needs and budgets. But beware: If you are transforming your home this summer, there will likely be fewer options to choose from, and the prices will be higher. 
• Relocation Specialists: Relocation specialists can provide valuable assistance in finding and securing temporary housing that meets your specific requirements.

Enjoy Your Temporary Home!

Choosing the right temporary housing during long renovation is more than finding a place to stay. It’s about maintaining your lifestyle and comfort while waiting for your dream home to be ready. With careful planning and the right resources, you can find a temporary home that fits your needs and allows you to continue living comfortably.

*Written by a Guest Blogger of Rêve Realtors