March 19, 2022

2350 Views

What to Look for in Your Short-Term Home Rental?

Posted on March 19, 2022March 7, 2022 by Jenny Hart

If you are a travel nurse, then you know that finding a short-term rental can be a daunting task. Not only do you have to worry about the location and size of the home, but you also need to make sure that it has all of the amenities that you will need while on assignment. When looking for a short-term rental, it’s important to consider the other necessities. For example, how close is the rental to the hospital? Is there a grocery store and other conveniences within walking distance? If you will be driving, is there parking available? These are all things that you will need to take into consideration when making your decision.

Short-term rental must-haves

Consider these options when you are looking into short-term home rentals. Everyone will have different needs, but use this list as a guide when you are about to take on a new assignment.

Close proximity to the hospital, restaurants, and grocery stores

When looking for a short-term rental, be sure to consider the location. If you’ll be working near a certain hospital or in a specific city, try to find a rental within close proximity. This will save you time during your commute and allow you to explore your new surroundings more easily. If you’re close to your hospital, you may be able to walk or bike there. If not, a short commute by car or public transportation will help to mitigate added stress. The closer your rental is to the hospital, the less time you will spend commuting. If you have to commute for more than 30 minutes, it’s going to add a lot of unnecessary stress to your already hectic schedule. Look for rentals that offer shuttle services or are located within walking distance of public transportation.

It’s no secret that travel nurses work long hours and often leave their shifts exhausted. Because of this, a short-term rental that is close to everything you want will make a huge difference in your overall mood. After your shift, you may be too tired to cook, so a grocery store with ready-made food can be a lifesaver. If you live close to restaurants, then delivery services like Instacart and DoorDash can deliver groceries or food to you most hours of the day. Close proximity to parks or other areas where you can enjoy fresh air and nature. Nursing is stressful by design, and it’s essential to be able to go outside and unwind after a long day (or week).

Washer, dryer, and other appliances

The life of a travel nurse is hectic. This means that everything in your rental should help to make your life as easy as possible. Look for short-term rentals that come with a washer and dryer. You’ll find that you probably won’t have the time or energy to go to a laundromat to wash your scrubs and other clothes. In addition, look for rentals that come with other appliances, like a microwave and dishwasher. This will help to cut down on the amount of time you spend cooking and cleaning. It’s easy for dishes to pile up, laundry to go unwashed, and unhealthy food to be eaten when you’re working long hours. Look for rentals that offer appliances that can help you keep up with your chores.

Home office

Most travelers are not off on solo adventures and need to consider home perks for their spouse and families. For many spouses, that means having a home office to conduct your business. In my experience, my significant other usually has an office to work in if we are traveling to most major cities (because he works for a large company), but it is always nice to have your own space. If you need to work from home occasionally, it’s helpful to have an office area in your rental. This way, you won’t have to set up and tear down a workspace every day.

Look for a rental that comes with solid WiFi services. It’s especially important to ensure that your data is protected if you are dealing with private matters related to your job. You’ll need to have competent malware protection to help with that. Other home office must-haves are a standing desk (so you’re not sitting for hours!), an aerodynamic keyboard to protect your wrists, hands, and fingers, and a large monitor to take some stress off of your eyes.

Pet-friendly accommodations

Many of us travel nurses have someplace that we leave our furry friends—from family to friends to significant others. For long assignments, it may seem impossible to be away from your pet for that long. Because of this, look for pet-friendly housing. Short-term rentals are already hard to come by but adding a space that allows for pets makes it even harder. Be prepared to pay an additional fee if you’re bringing Fido along for your assignment. Working long days may also leave you needing either a dog walker or doggy door to keep your dog entertained during the day. Bringing pets along can make your trips less lonely, but you’ll need to look for rentals that have fences or are in close proximity to a dog park or dog walkers.

Parking

If you have a car, make sure the rental has parking available. This is especially important if the rental is located in a city. You don’t want to hunt for a parking spot after pulling an all-nighter or move your car every 12 hours so that you don’t get a ticket. Easy parking should be a must when you are on your travel assignments.

Short-term rentals for nurses are becoming increasingly common.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, the need for travel nurses has increased exponentially. It’s becoming easier to find short-term rentals that are meant for travel nurses due to supply and demand. Landlords also realize that travel nurses are less likely to cause any kind of issues due to their demanding work schedule.

It’s important to find a place that meets your needs so that you can have a successful and enjoyable experience while travel nursing. Do you want to live with roommates? Are you bringing your dog along on the adventure? What about a home office so that you can relax and take care of all of your administrative tasks? Use this list as a guide to know what to look for as you begin your search for the perfect house. Do you have any short-term home rental tips to add? Share them in the comments below. And be sure to check out our other blog posts for more information on travel nursing.

By Furnished Finder

March 12, 2022

11054 Views

Should I Sign a Short Term Lease?

Posted on March 12, 2022March 12, 2022 by Furnished Finder

When finding short term housing it is a nice goal to want to “have it all”. Perfect location, beautiful apartment, affordable pricing, and laid back lease terms. However, as travel nurses looking for housing to accommodate us for a few months at a time, it can be difficult to hit every single checkmark on our list.

As my husband and I got more experienced in finding our own travel nurse housing, we started to realize that one easy way to cut back on living expenses is to sign a short term lease for the unit we were interested in. Although a lot of our landlords on Furnished Finder do not require you to sign a lease, by offering to do so you may be able to negotiate a lower rent or move to the top of the list if they have multiple applicants. By giving some guarantee to the landlords, they can often reduce their prices slightly because they don’t have to worry about the “what ifs” of an empty apartment. While signing a lease does come with some risks, the benefits of a longer agreement rather than a month-to-month rental may be worth it.

Know the Risks

Before signing a short term lease, check to see what the cost of breaking said lease would be. If the short term rental saves you $100 a month over three months, but it costs you $2,000 if you move out early due to contract cancellation, it probably isn’t worth the risk. However, if it saves you $500 a month, it might be worth considering.

Check Move Out Requirements

Some apartments require a 60-day notice if you will be leaving at the end of your lease. For travel nurses, this means at week four of your contract you will need to know whether you plan to extend or not or risk being charged money for late notice. If you know for sure you will not be extending, this might be okay but if you want to wait and see you may not be able to give your full notice. Usually, your best bet will be to try and find a place that allows a 30-day notice.

Ask About Going Month to Month

At a lot of apartment complexes, you can switch to month-to-month after your initial lease expires. This is great because you can finish your initial contract and lease and not feel obligated to stay another full three months if you can make your housing situation work for a shorter extension. Plus, with month-to-month, there is usually a shorter move-out notice requirement.

Have Some Money Saved

It is always a good idea to have an emergency fund as a travel nurse, but this is especially important if you opt to sign a short term lease for housing. In the event that your contract gets canceled unexpectedly, you will have to be prepared to pay any penalties that come with ending a lease early unless you can find a different job in the same area.

Plan for a Little Overlap

The chances that your lease start and end dates line up perfectly with your contract dates aren’t super likely. You may have to plan for a few days at the beginning or end where you stay in a hotel to make the timing work out. If this happens at the end of your lease you may even be able to crash on a coworker’s couch for your last couple of shifts to help save money.

The financial benefits of signing a lease can often be the deciding factor for if it is the right move for you. Not only does signing a short term lease save you money, but it can also give you peace of mind knowing that you are secure in your living space for the duration of your contract. As long as you have an emergency fund in case of cancellation, you should be able to sign a lease for your travel nurse contract with minimal worries.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Gifted Healthcare

March 3, 2022

1466 Views

5 Renter-Friendly Tips to Spruce Up Your Travel Nursing Home

Posted on March 3, 2022February 28, 2022 by Gifted Healthcare

Gifted Healthcare provided this article.

With all the amazing perks that come with travel nursing, there are a few things that can make the jump a bit harder to take. One difficult task is to find housing that fits your needs, but once you do, an even more challenging task might be making your travel nursing home feel like home.

The easiest thing you can do from the start is to bring a few of your favorite smaller, packable items with you. Pack your favorite photos of friends and family, books, and décor to add little bits of your life and personality throughout your place right away. Since you cannot pack up everything, being selective with the smaller items you love is key. Try to pick items that you would enjoy while considering space: would you rather see pictures of your friends and family throughout your home or large art?

After setting up the décor you packed, look around your new home and decide what room and/or areas of the house could use a little sprucing up and utilize these tips and tricks.

Lighting

The lighting of your apartment or home can dictate the entire ambiance. A place with big windows will bring natural light into your space, but if that isn’t the case for your temporary home, try adding light where you can.

Start by decorating your windows with curtains. Opening your curtains during the day allows natural light to soak in but also provides privacy when necessary. There are some temporary options for curtain rods and hooks that will not damage your rental, including adhesive Command Strips.

String lights, lamps, and pendant lights are all options to add light to your temporary space. A pendant light with a cord can easily be hung with an adhesive hook, so it hangs from your ceiling, adding style and overhead light. This will look especially chic in a corner spot. String lights also hang well with adhesive hooks and can frame a wall to brighten up your space. Try them along the wall your bed is perpendicular to for some cozy nighttime light.

Lighting can elevate the ambiance as well as the overall look of your newfound space. Try LED motion-sensor lights under your cabinets to make your kitchen feel more upscale. The motion sensors will come in handy for your early mornings or late nights when you are coming and going from shifts too.

Organization

The organization of your home might be the easiest way to feel at ease in the new spot. When everything has a place, your space will feel put together and ready for your busy schedule. The bonus perk of this is that you can add style while organizing each room. Try to find a variety of storage items that will match your décor to create a cohesive vibe. Long narrow fabric bins for under your bed are a great option to increase your storage while hiding your clothes. Storage bins in your bathroom are perfect for products and toiletries.

When it comes to storage, shelving can be a bit trickier for a rental space, but it is definitely doable with adhesive stick options. Try to find floating shelves that come with adhesive strips or shelves that hang from strings you can hook to the wall. Shelves create storage and organization that your place might lack and could be a focal point for your décor as well. The best part is that you can pack your shelves up and bring them with you to the next place.

Color

Most rental locations tend to have white walls and neutral tones, but this doesn’t mean that you can’t add a little color to your spot. There are so many ways to add a pop throughout your place that can travel with you to each assignment.

Peel and stick wallpaper makes for a fun accent wall and a great way to add some life to your home. You can choose your color and/or pattern and placement, giving you all of the power to make your new home unique. Measure the length of your wall, cut your pieces, and carefully place the paper on your wall until you are ready to pack up and head to your next travel nursing assignment. Most peel and stick wallpapers are reusable so do a little research before you purchase to ensure you get extra use.

If you want to spice up an entire room, try looking for an accent rug that immediately brings you joy. Rugs are a powerful way to completely change the way a room looks and feels. You can find any size, so whether it is a large rug for the living space or a smaller rug to just add a touch of color to your closet, try this out and see what you like best.

For some subtle color, pick up flowers for your kitchen table. This is a convenient way to add color, texture, and life to your home without adding any new items to your suitcase. This is also interchangeable décor that you can replace with new colors as your old flowers begin to wilt without ever having to bring them along for your next move.

Secret Renovations

When renting a place or living somewhere temporarily, you don’t have the same freedom to make long-lasting renovations you might want to, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it look like you renovated the place. If you don’t love the kitchen counters, find an adhesive paper of what you would want them to look like. You can transform your counter space to look like a slab of marble without any construction at all. The paper is easily removable with no damage, just like the peel and stick wallpaper.

The best part about this is that you can use this hack on almost anything. Purchase peel and stick tile backsplash or floor tiles to upgrade your kitchen and bathroom. No one would know that it was only a façade, not even you.

Clean

Sometimes just having a clean space can make all the difference. Simple things like dusting your baseboards and deep cleaning the shower can make you feel more comfortable in the new space. There are useful products for locked-in dirt like grout pens to cover any stain, spackle to fill any holes in the walls, and more.

Make it You

Although this new housing might not be forever, it is your space for your 13-week contract, and you want to feel good after a long shift walking into your home. But before trying any of these little hacks, take pictures of your new spot so that when it comes time to pack up, you know how to leave the place just as you found it. It is also important to read over your lease and see what is allowed and strictly not allowed as it is different everywhere you go. Most importantly, have fun and decorate your space to feel like you!

We hope you found these 5 Renter Friendly Tips to Spruce Up Your Travel Nursing Home helpful. Have you found ways to spruce your travel nursing home up? Comment any tips for sprucing up travel nursing homes below.

Are you looking for your next travel nursing assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Furnished Finder

January 21, 2022

1254 Views

Want To Know What Your Landlord Says About You?

Posted on January 21, 2022January 21, 2022 by Furnished Finder

Oh, if we could only be a fly on the wall when it comes to what landlords say about travel nurses… That’s exactly what we’re going to do! A recent survey from Furnished Finder, the leading travel nurse housing platform, asked landlords what they like about renting to traveling healthcare professionals like travel nurses. Here’s what they had to say.

What a delight

Nurse to Nurse…What a delight to receive a Housing Request from Furnished Finder. A first responder looking for a house to stay for a few months. She is a travel nurse needing a better space than a hotel room with a limited space. I was grateful to host her. As a nurse myself, I was able to anticipate her housing needs responded to her questions and concerns quickly as possible. Above all, this was a great opportunity to host and support our first responder. Times like this, all we need is someone to listen to our concerns and fears as we face this terrible time of the pandemic. Not only did I provide her a place she called a temporary home, but I also gained a friend! – Jane Scritchfield

Teacher turned landlord

As a teacher, the greatest way to make a positive impact in my community was to host travel nurses via Furnished Finder. My current travel nurse has grown to be like a sister to me. It’s not just about the money, but the relationship that grows when another professional who is dedicated to helping others is living with you. It has changed my life!! – Kathryn Moore

I get to meet interesting people

I have been renting rooms in my house through Furnished Finder since 2018. I have had about 12 travel nurses, lab techs, and other professionals from many different parts of the country. I get to meet interesting people (and cats, dogs, and ferrets) and make money from my house at the same time. – Nancy Fiske

The best top-notch guests

What I love most about renting on Furnished Finder is being able to meet different people from all over our country. I also love how my guests are travel nurses. In my opinion, they are the best top-notch guests you can have as a landlord. During this pandemic, it has been a pleasure to make them feel at home, a home away from home. I will continue to host on Furnished Finder and tell other landlords about it all the time. – Jennifer Golden

I fell in love with a travel nurse

I started renting my house on Furnished Finder when I fell in love with a travel nurse. Because my job allows me to work remotely, I am able to take my work on the road and travel with her. Therefore, my home is available to rent to other travelers in search of short-term furnished rentals. I’m new to the scene, but I’ve only had positive experiences so far. It also helps that my home is only a mile away from a hospital…which is how I met my partner. She was looking for a place to live near the hospital, and a mutual friend knew I was looking for a roommate. And the rest is her-story. – Trina B.

I too am a travel nurse

I’m a travel nurse and have listed my property, and my Condo stays rented out while I am on the road. I love the platform. So easy to screen potential renters. – Judith Lycan

I get to meet dedicated nurses

I enjoy being a landlord through Furnished Finder due to the ability to meet interesting and dedicated nurses that are doing their part to give back to others. I am amazed at the professionalism and dedication of those that have stayed with me. I have had three travel nurses stay in my home over the last year or so, and each one of them have their own unique qualities that give me faith in our healthcare system. They are not only dedicated to their profession, but they are making sacrifices for their family by being away and serving others. It has been refreshing to meet the individuals that have stayed with me, and I will always provide a home to those nurses that need a place to stay while working here in Nashville, TN, and the surrounding areas. – Steve Heim

My best friend is a travel nurse

I got involved with Furnished Finder because one of my best friends is a travel nurse. My husband and I have a 4-bedroom home with the bedrooms being used only occasionally when family visits. So we started the adventure this year with a tenant, and it is working out very well for us. We get to supplement our retirement income with very little effort. Our current tenant has been with us for almost 6 months on an extended contract, and we love her. We enjoy the interaction but respect the privacy of our tenant and believe we provide a safe and clean respite for the hero in our midst! – Helen Sayes

Very little housing in my area

I have THREE travel nurses staying with me in the Augusta, Maine, area. They say there is very little housing in this area…I am so thankful for Furnished Finders and for the fact that I can help these three lovely ladies!!! – Judith Nuber

Absolutely fantastic tenants

Finding out about Furnished Finders has been one of the best things to happen to me in a good long while! I own 3 furnished condos and have been renting them to tenants I’ve found on Furnished Finders for the last 6 months or so. All of my tenants- so far- have been travel nurses, and most all of them have been absolutely fantastic tenants- professional, responsible, conscientious, caring, and great communicators. I so very much appreciate what nurses and medical staff are doing- these days more than ever; it’s wonderful to be contributing in a small way- by providing a beautiful place they can call home away from home for the few months they are on their traveling assignments. The Furnished Finders website and the smartphone app make communication easy and convenient. The amount of inquiries I receive along with tenant leads is phenomenal. Furnished Finders, thank you SO much for providing a great service and terrific tenants! – Paul Torok

Amazing travel nurses at my home!

I have had 100% occupancy with amazing travel nurses at my home! Everyone has been a great tenant, and they’ve all left the house in perfect condition! I live furnished finder!! – Maureen Fitzpatrick

Heaven sent

Travel nurses have been Heaven-sent. Nurses need a quiet, close, secure, CLEAN place to stay, so fur us, it’s a win-win! We are getting a QUALITY renter, and they love our beach location. – Nicole Trotter Henry

I was a Travel Nurse.

I know the struggles of finding a place to rest in a new location every 3 months so when I finally settled down and bought my house, I decided to rent a room to fellow Travel Nurses and make them feel as comfortable in my home as if they were my own family and it worked! I enjoy meeting new people and making new friends. I’m happy, they’re happy, and it’s all good! – Angie Mahan

All have been awesome

I have rented to several travel nurses and medical techs. All have been AWESOME. The fact that they are background checked, drug tested, and make above-average salaries gives me a sense of security and confidence. They have all come from Furnished Finder!! Thanks. – Sandra Sorrells

I decided I needed a roomate

Renting through Furnished has been a great experience for me. I bought a home in a very expensive market (Austin, TX), and the mortgage is a huge burden on a nurse’s salary. I decided I needed a roommate in my three-bedroom/two-bathroom house, but I love having my own space. I also have my house decorated the way I like it and don’t want to accommodate someone else’s furniture, art, etc.; a few friends of mine who are travel nurses suggested Furnished Finder. I love the flexibility of sharing my home for several months and then taking a break between tenants if I choose to. I live very close to several hospitals, so it’s convenient for those staying with me. I have actually had fun setting up the room and bathroom to be cute and cozy—I try to have everything set up so that my tenants only have to bring their clothes & toiletries. By providing laundry detergent, cleaning products, TP & paper towels, and putting flowers, candles, or other welcoming touches in the guest rooms, it is such a small expense to me that goes a long way to make things easier and nicer for my guests. Sharing my home has also given me a push to continue my efforts of home improvement—fixing up my patio & backyard, hanging outdoor lights, repainting the shed, getting a new TV and dining table, among other things. The extra income has allowed me to hire housecleaners which makes my life easier AND is a great bonus for my guests. Now that I am sharing my home with renters, I feel like I always need to keep my home “company ready.” One unexpected bonus is that I have made a few great new friends who I never would have met otherwise! – Elizabeth Stephens

The smartest thing I can do

Renting to travel nurses and medical people is the smartest thing I can do with my completely furnished rental apartment. Furnished Finder makes it easy and more affordable than other agencies I have used. The medical people are immaculate and appreciate the quiet and convenience of my location….near 3 hospitals and in a quiet and safe neighborhood on Lake Michigan – Sunny Boehme.

Great place to find potential renters

Furnished Finder has been a great place for us to find potential renters. My wife has been a travel nurse for many years and has used Furnished Finder to find housing. We live in the panhandle of Florida, and when hurricane Michael came through, we had to have a big restoration done to our home. We decided to take that opportunity to update the 2 rooms upstairs and use them specifically for renting. Now we receive inquiries almost weekly about our rooms whether they are occupied or not. Now we are looking at building tiny homes and renting those out using Furnished Finder. We feel very secure using this site because we know upfront that the people requesting housing have a job, that the job is for at least 13 weeks (most of the time), and even if they are not nurses, they are working professionals. We will never not use Furnished Finder if you rent your property and want to do it safely. Furnished Finder should be your go-to. – Michael Covington

It is a win-win

I have been using Furnished Finder for 6 months and have helped travel nurses have safe and affordable housing while also being able to help me pay down on my mortgage! It’s been a win-win! I’ve met some very cool nurses and have had a blast exchanging stories and getting to see more about the nursing industry. – Junior Fifer

I felt compelled

I have been a super host with AirBNB until the pandemic hit. It was then that I started to look elsewhere and ‘discovered’ Furnished Finder. I felt compelled to do this as a service to healthcare workers in my small way. Since then, I have had a good experience with travel nurses and will continue to do so. They are superstars to me. – Rosemary Rausch

We hope you enjoyed reading what landlords had to say about hosting travel nurses and working with Furnished Finder. Are you a landlord? Do you use Furnished Finder? Tell us about your experience in the comments below. If you are interested in being a landlord and listing with Furnish Finder, click the link in the next paragraph.

About Furnished Finder 

Furnished Finder is the leading housing platform for traveling professionals and remote workers looking for monthly furnished housing in the US. With more than 75,000 properties and representing a potential of 20M bookable nights per month, Furnished Finder is the source of direct bookings for landlords, property managers, and hoteliers. Fueled by their strategic industry partnerships and high search ranking, traveling nurses, remote workers, and other traveling professionals depend on Furnished Finder for monthly furnished rentals. Furnished Finder also provides travelers with steep negotiated discounts on Hotel Stays of any length. Furnished Finder also owns KeyCheck, a site that provides tools for landlords, including online rent payment, free tenant screening, and custom residential leases. For more information, visit www.furnishedfinder.com.   

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Do you need housing for an upcoming assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Furnished Finder

November 26, 2021

6181 Views

Navigating Lease Signing: Backing Out, Eviction, and Post-Signing Occupancy

Posted on November 26, 2021December 19, 2023 by Furnished Finder

Leases just protect the landlord, right?

This is an important topic to tackle head-on as there may be a stigma associated with signing a lease. Of course, a landlord is going to write up a lease that protects themselves and their property, but some tenants may not realize that there are many reasons they should want to sign a lease themselves because of the built-in state tenant protection laws.

We’ve heard of travelers sending a deposit to secure a property without a signed lease in place. In this situation, you are really rolling the dice because without a written document outlining all the details; you are subject to a he-said/she-said situation which leaves you venerable. And really, why leave these things up to chance?

The most obvious reason to have a lease in place is to simply define the lease’s terms. It sets the tone for what is expected and lays out the parameters for both parties. While tenant/landlord laws are different in every state, a lease will define the standards and requirements which are designed to protect each party.

Get more information in the Free Essential Travel Nurse E-Book.

Now, we’ve all signed stuff we couldn’t possibly read entirely… like when you purchase a car or get a mortgage, but a residential lease is NOT one of those documents. First of all, we encourage every traveler to request a lease before any money is exchanged. This should be a hard & fast rule. Secondly, taking the time to read it carefully is the best possible thing you can do at this point. Leases can be explained and even changed, so if you see something you are uncomfortable with, or maybe you just need some extra clarity around a specific term, speak up right away. Once you sign your lease, all negotiations end.

Here are some of the most important terms in a lease:

Lease Term

As a traveling professional, you may want to search for a month-to-month lease rather than a 3-month minimum lease. It all depends on what is available in the area at that time, but if you have the luxury of choosing between the two, the M2M lease will give you much greater flexibility.

Notice to Vacate

This is important to pay attention to because what good is an M2M lease if they require 60 days’ notice to vacate? That is an example, of course, but you get the idea. Travelers need flexibility as much as possible, so a 30-day notice to vacate is standard. That said, however, travel nurses don’t always get the luxury of knowing 30 days out if they’ll renew or go to work somewhere else, so you should have a conversation with the landlord before you sign the lease, so they understand your situation. The landlord has to protect themselves, of course, but they also need to appease their tenant, so this is a conversation worth having before a lease is signed and may result in favorable terms.

Early-Out

Every travel nurse needs to know what will happen if your contract is suddenly canceled and you need to leave unexpectedly. The lease will often explain the worst-case scenario of what you would be responsible for should you leave before the end of your lease, but this should absolutely be a conversation you have with your landlord prior to signing the lease. Some landlords offer more flexible lease terms for travel nurses, so always talk to the landlord beforehand about this specific scenario.

Costs

Next, a lease will define the price you’ll pay and what is expected from you at move-in/move-out. Security deposits are also a very important piece of the puzzle that should be clearly defined, so there is no confusion at move-out. The keyword to look for is “refundable” to make sure you can recoup your security deposit, assuming there was no damage to the property. A cleaning fee is usually a separate charge and is not refundable.

The lease will also tell you how much the monthly rent is when the rent is due and what happens if it is received late. Try to set up an auto-payment at the same time each month so you can essentially eliminate the chance of incurring any late fees.

Pro Tip: There are many ways to pay your rent, but try to pay rent with a credit card when possible. When you pay rent with a credit card, you have built-in consumer rights that you won’t have with a check or other type of payment. It can also be a great way to earn reward points and to even build your credit over time. The trick is, of course, to always pay off the credit card immediately, so you’re not carrying any of that balance.

Utilities should be included in a furnished rental which should always be specified in a lease. More importantly, it should also identify any utilities that are not covered or capped (meaning sometimes landlords say they will pay up to $x per month for heating or electricity and anything over you are expected to pay). Sometimes apartment complexes will offer you a short-term lease. However, the furniture and utilities are not included, so make sure you know what is included in the rent.

Pets

Make sure you know their pet policy, including non-refundable pet fees, which may limit the number and type of animals you can bring (i.e., two dogs maximum. 45lb max, no restricted breeds). Expect to pay a little bit more if you’re going to travel with your best friend. Also, you absolutely must disclose that you are bringing a pet if that is your intention. Even if it is a registered service animal, just showing up with your dog is unfair to the landlord and will most likely be a breach of contract.

Extras

Nobody wants to be inconvenienced, and most of us don’t like surprises when it comes to our living situation, so make sure you know what is included in the property. What is the parking situation? Many places have ample street or driveway parking, but parking comes at a premium in busier cities, so be sure you know the parking situation/limitations. Likewise, what is the laundry situation? You’ll want to know if there is a washer/dryer in the unit, in the complex, or a couple of blocks away. Also, some landlords may impose limits on who can live at that property, so if you’re traveling with a friend or spouse in tow, be sure that the landlord is aware.

Leases Protect Tenant Too!

Again, a tenant should never send any money without a signed lease in place. Because every lease is different, tenants need to be very intentional and specific about understanding what is in the agreement they are about to sign. Once you sign, you accept everything just the way it is written, so if one of the terms is confusing or too prohibitive, make sure you speak up immediately. If you can negotiate better terms for yourself (ex. asking for a discount on rent, lower security deposit, or a shorter notice to vacate), now is the time to do that.

Are you looking for housing for your next assignment? Click here to search our housing page in partnership with Furnished Finder.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

By Furnished Finder

November 17, 2021

9224 Views

Starting a Travel Nurse Assignment Without Housing

Posted on November 17, 2021November 17, 2021 by Furnished Finder

For the last several months, the travel nurse job market has been less than predictable. Some specialties are seeing tons of crisis contracts and great rates, while other areas of nursing have seen an overall decline in the number of jobs. This uncertainty has made even seasoned travelers more heightened in their awareness of the job market, which means jobs are moving fast. Many travelers are taking jobs with start dates two weeks or less in advance, making coordinating everything a lot more stressful.

To-Dos

Even if you are on top of your organization with all of your paperwork and credentials, to start a new assignment at the bare minimum, you will have to get a current urine drug screen and very likely a TB test. Plus, there might be some computer work that needs to be done before your arrival. Between these to-do list items, packing up your possessions, and the drive time to get to your new location, you may have very little time to work out other details of your contract. Next thing you know, you are headed to your new job and frantically trying to secure housing at rest stops on the side of the highway.

Take a deep breath

The first thing to do is to take a deep breath. I promise you are not the first travel nurse to hit the road without having housing secured, and it will work out. In fact, some people prefer to look for housing once they get to an assignment because they can explore the area where they will be living and working and see where they would feel most comfortable. In the meantime, work on having a short-term solution to get a roof over your head.

This is where websites like Furnished Finder can be a great tool to have on hand. Because there are listings for hotels and private homes, you can easily compare prices between your different options if you are in a hurry. You can even book a hotel in a pinch for the first part of your stay while you look around for a better option if hotel living is not your style.

Reach out directly

It is also handy to be able to reach out to landlords directly. If you are pressed for time and worried about being homeless when you first get to your assignment, don’t be afraid to reach out to owners who have listings that look appealing to you but are not “quite” right. For example, if they are listed as booked, they might have a last-minute cancellation and haven’t updated their calendar. Or perhaps they are not listed as “pet friendly” but would make an exception if you kennel your dog when you aren’t home and schedule a dog walker for long shifts. When time is not in your favor, it never hurts to explore options that might not seem viable otherwise.

Not ideal, but doable

Although setting out for a new travel nurse assignment without housing secured is not ideal, it can be doable. As long as you are prepared to pay a little extra upfront. At the same time, you find a more permanent housing situation, and you go in with great resources and an open mind, you will be able to navigate this stressful situation and perhaps even end up with better housing options than if you had had to search for a place long distance!

Finished the travel nursing guide and are ready to look for an assignment?

Check out our travel nurse jobs!

By Furnished Finder

November 7, 2021

8786 Views

How to Make Temporary Housing Feel More Personalized

Posted on November 7, 2021November 7, 2021 by Furnished Finder

Travel nursing can be an exciting opportunity to experience new places and acquire professional skills, but even the most seasoned traveler isn’t immune to homesickness. No matter how warm and cozy your short-term rental property may be, it can’t replace home. Fortunately, there are some steps you can take to personalize your short-term rental and make it feel more like home so that you enjoy a better travel nurse experience.

Unpack and Get Organized

Settle into your temporary home by fully unpacking and organizing your things. No one likes the feeling of living out of a suitcase, and a 12-week contract gives you plenty of time to get used to your new surroundings. Don’t hesitate to fill up the dresser drawers, place your toiletries in the bathroom and even reorganize the kitchen items according to your liking. This will help make it feel less like you live in someone else’s home and help you establish a new routine.

Also, don’t fall into the habit of throwing dirty clothes just anywhere and letting dirty dishes pile up. Many of us become a little laxer when it comes to cleaning when we are on the road, but remember that this property will be your home for several months. The last thing you want to see after a long shift at the hospital is a dirty room. Treat your temporary housing like your home, and it will begin to feel that way.

Bring Your Own Linens

One of the main benefits of short-term, fully-furnished rentals is that you can travel lightly. You don’t have to worry about bringing furniture, kitchen essentials, or shower curtains. However, if you have the room to pack some linens, bringing your own bedding from home can help you make your space more comforting, especially as you rest and recuperate after work. Whether it is a pillow, a favorite set of sheets, or a snuggly blanket that you can curl up in while lounging on the couch, these familiar items can evoke a peaceful sense of home.

Engage in Some Home Cooking

The kitchen of your rental home should be fully stocked with all the essentials you need to prepare and eat a homemade meal. Instead of dining out every night, which can be tough on your wallet and your waistline, take advantage of the kitchen to prepare some of your favorite meals. The simple ritual of cooking and enjoying your favorite smells and flavors can be a comforting act that reminds you of home. Sharing a meal is also a good way to get to know your fellow travel nurses and colleagues, so don’t hesitate to invite some company.

Bring Your Cat or Dog

Nothing brings joy to your heart and a smile to your face like your cat or pup. One sure way to have built-in purpose and companionship while you travel is by bringing along a pet. About ⅓ of travelers bring a pet on contract with them, so it is mostly accepted and quite common. Of course, there may be some extra fees like a separate pet deposit, but traveling with your pet can really improve your spirits while you’re away from home. If you’re wondering how to search for pet-friendly properties, visit Furnished Finder and use the filters to view pet-friendly travel nurse housing.

Add a Houseplant

Not only have houseplants been scientifically proven to reduce stress and improve your mood, the act of caring for something, even a simple plant, has a grounding effect that further supports mental health. Plants will also improve the air quality, help the property feel more personal and add a touch of color to a space that might otherwise seem rather plain. If you don’t have a green thumb, consider a small herb garden or a potted arrangement of succulents. These are low maintenance options that won’t die if you neglect them for a few days.

Do Some Decorating

While completely redecorating your temporary housing isn’t really an option, you can add favorite items, such as books, movies, and personal photos, to shelves and tabletop surfaces. These small additions will add character and personalize the space while still allowing you to travel light. Another great decorating tip is to add mirrors to certain rooms (found very inexpensively at Walmart). These will make any space appear larger, and they can be placed on the floor and leaned up against the wall, so you don’t have to put holes in the walls. And let’s face it, even if we’re in scrubs, we still want to see how we’re looking before we dash out the door.

You may also want to consider investing in one or two small accent lamps. Most temporary housing will include plenty of lighting, but if you find your rental lacking in this department, a couple of lamps can make all the difference. Overhead lighting tends to be harsh and makes the space feel cold and sterile. Adding accent lamps will instantly provide soft light for a warmer, more inviting environment that feels more personal.

Incorporate Your Favorite Smells

Smell is a powerful sense that is strongly connected to certain places, memories, and even moods. Bringing your favorite smells into your rental property can trigger parts of the brain linked to home and happy times. Bring along some candles, your usual laundry detergent and shampoo, and any other familiar fragrances that will make your space smell and feel like home.

Get to Know Your New City

It might sound counterintuitive to say that getting out of the house will make your rental feel like home, but the more familiar you are with the neighborhood, the more you will feel like a part of the community. Say hi to your neighbors. Ask locals for recommendations when it comes to restaurants, coffee shops, and other hangouts. Set out on foot and walk the neighborhood. Not only will this help you feel at home and make your travel experience more enriching, but it will also help alleviate the stress of being in a new place. Exploring by yourself can be intimidating for some people, but you may also find that taking that first step is the hardest part. Once you have your feet wet, you will want to do and see more.

Temporary housing doesn’t have to feel cold and unfamiliar.

With a little planning, you can make any space feel more like home so that you enjoy a better, less stressful travel nurse experience. Don’t be afraid to bring some of your favorite items along to personalize your space. Even small details, like candles and a favorite blanket, can make a big difference.

For help finding the perfect short-term, fully furnished rental, be sure to visit Furnished Finder and search their map, which features over 25,000 properties from across the country. Once you find the right short-term rental property in your next travel nurse assignment city, you can set to work using the tips mentioned above to personal it and experience a home away from home during your travels.

Furnished Finder is the largest online housing marketplace for travel nurses who take temporary positions across the US. With over 25,000 monthly furnished rental properties to choose from, they continue to expand their inventory and make housing easier and more affordable for traveling nurses nationwide. Download the app. Furnished Finder also owns travelnursehousing.com. www.furnishedfinder.com

We hope that you found these tips for making your short-term rental or housing helpful. For information on avoiding housing, scams read our article: How Travel Nurses Can Avoid Housing Scams.

If you are a travel nurse looking for housing for your next assignment, check out our Housing Page!

By Furnished Finder

October 19, 2021

3945 Views

How to Navigate Housing in High-Cost Cities

Posted on October 19, 2021October 15, 2021 by Furnished Finder

High-cost cities can sometimes make it difficult to have a successful and fun assignment, so allow me to make suggestions that may help during your next adventure. Let me just start out by saying there is no Easy-Button here as we are all subject to the market. What I mean is that demand for housing is so high in these cities that it drives up the cost of rent for everyone. And while you can’t change the housing market, you can adjust the way that you do things, so they work in your favor. Be sure to read to the end to get discounts on hotels as well.

The first thing you should know is that you are competing against a lot of other people when you’re looking to secure a monthly furnished rental. People across the globe are suddenly able to live and work anywhere, so we are seeing more relocating families and remote workers than ever before. Secondly, don’t expect preferential treatment because you are a healthcare worker. Property managers don’t necessarily care what you do for a living – their job is to just make sure you are the best tenant for the property.

Since the focus of this article is the cost of living in cities like LA, San Francisco, New York, Boston, San Diego, and Chicago, here are 5 things you can do to help you navigate the costs of these high-cost cities:

1. Don’t Pay Booking Fees

Booking fees are a percentage of rent which is added to the total cost of your stay. Booking fees are annoying and expensive…especially if you are required to pay them every month! Booking fees are synonymous with vacation rental platforms like Airbnb and VRBO and can add up to 15-18% to the total cost. Still, if you can use platforms like Furnished Finder, you book directly with the landlord and can literally save hundreds every month.

2. Consider Shared Spaces

Rooms are probably the easiest way to guarantee that you’ll pay the least amount of rent living in a high-cost city. Of course, that means that you may need to make a lifestyle compromise since you’ll be sharing the unit with someone else, but the savings of a room over a private unit can sometimes cut your costs in half. Many travel nurses prefer sharing space because it provides them companionship and conversation on their off days. While there are a lot of variables to consider when renting a room vs. a private unit, the cost savings alone are undisputable. Here is where you can search for rooms.

3. Know Before You Go

Make sure you really want to go there before you accept your assignment. That may sound pretty obvious, but there are travelers who don’t do their research before signing a contract and are absolutely shocked once they start looking for housing. There is definitely a trade-off when you decide to work in a high-cost city because you’ll be spending more of your stipend money on housing. The main thing is to educate yourself on the housing costs of an area when you are shopping for jobs, so there are no surprises.

4. Parking…Ugh

Yep. It’s common for properties in high-cost cities to charge extra for parking, making your cost of living even higher. Consider whether you need your car at all during your next assignment. It if will cost you a couple hundred dollars extra a month to bring your car, maybe leave it at home and save the money. Many of these cities have excellent public transportation, and services like cabs and Ubers can help as well.

5. Hotels

If you’ve been doing this long enough, you’ve probably parked it in hotels a few times here or there. It could be for a few nights until your place is ready, a few weeks to scout out an area, or sometimes even for the entire assignment. Since hotels are getting aggressive about marketing to healthcare workers for any length of stay (even for personal stays), more than 35 hotel brands have partnered with Furnished Finder to offer travelers discounts across the nation. Get up to 25% off (depending on the brand and your length of stay) when you book via Furnished Finder.

Every assignment varies, and housing is, of course, that big X-factor that can make or break an assignment…especially in high-cost cities. Start your housing search early… even before you accept an assignment! Don’t get caught off guard by housing costs. Good luck, and safe travels ahead!

Are you looking for your next travel nurse assignment? Click here to view our job board. Need to secure housing for your next assignment? Click here to search our housing page.

By The Gypsy Nurse

September 22, 2021

9115 Views

Travel Nurses: Everything You Need To Know About Moving

Posted on September 22, 2021July 26, 2023 by The Gypsy Nurse

Whether you’re considering a career in travel nursing or you’re getting ready to start your journey as a travel nurse, there are many things to consider when choosing this career. Moving is difficult for anyone, but it can be especially difficult for travel nurses who are consistently on the go, especially when you’re on shorter assignments. Managing travel expenses, housing arrangements, and preparation for your new career require quite a bit of planning. To make the process easier, consider these four tips:

Decide Whether You Should Rent or Buy a House

Deciding on housing arrangements as a traveling nurse requires a lot of research, as well as an overall understanding of your travel assignment. First, you must communicate with your recruiter regarding the length of the assignment. Knowing how long your travel assignment is can help you decide on whether you should rent or buy a home.

If your assignment is short, it’s better to consider renting a small place that won’t cost as much as the expenses associated with homeownership. However, if your assignment is longer than two years, in the same state and you plan to live there long term, it may be good to consider buying a smaller home. If so, it’s important to keep in mind your budget and the cost of living wherever it is you may be stationed. Organizing your finances ahead of time, such as the required credit score for a home loan, state taxes, and so on, can help in your decision-making process.

While renting has its advantages, buying a home can be beneficial when you need housing arrangements between your travel assignments. If neither renting or buying intrigues you, consider taking advantage of your agency and its benefits. Most staffing agencies provide travel nurses with a housing stipend or lodging options that can be cost-friendly. These stipends or lodging options may cover or include hotels, airbnbs, or facilities dedicated specifically to traveling employees.

Budget for All Expenses

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the averag e salary for a registered nurse as of 2018 was $71,730 per year. However, this may differ for travel nurses because of the demand of the job. Travel nurses, in general, expect a higher salary than stationary nurses. Despite the increased salary, travel nurses should budget accordingly based on the average salary and additional expenses they will face while traveling to different states or countries.

It’s crucial to outline the various costs you will incur, including travel expenses, housing, transportation, utility bills, and groceries. You should create a money plan that can help you manage your daily expenses to avoid the stress of being in debt while working a demanding job. While preparing to move to your first travel assignment, make sure to review your contract with your agency and allocate all benefits they provide to your budget. This will help you prioritize what you have to pay out-of-pocket.

Consider having an emergency fund that includes at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses. This step is beneficial because you may have unexpected costs like medical bills, a car accident, or a sudden move that isn’t supported by your travel agency. Lastly, it’s essential to choose the best travel nursing agency that suits your career and financial needs in this journey.

Pack Light

When preparing for a travel nursing assignment, packing can be one of the most difficult steps, but it doesn’t have to be. To have a smooth relocation, travel nurses should consider packing light and prioritize the essentials. Also, familiarize yourself with the weather trends in your new city so you don’t overpack by bringing clothes you won’t need. Using compression bags can help you fit more items that you will need, like electronics or other items, to make you feel at home.

You will probably be flying to your assigned destination, so consider avoiding toiletries above 3.4 ounces if you will only be bringing a carry-on bag. Instead, wait until you arrive to buy the essential toiletries and home goods. For home furnishings, check out local thrift stores to save money while making your space feel homey. Since we live in a virtual world, consider digitizing important documents to minimize the paperwork you need to carry for your travel nursing assignment. You may need to pack your travel nurse license, but any other documents should be scanned and saved in a safe place.

Remember, this experience will be like no other.

So, enjoy your journey. It’s an amazing opportunity to travel around the country, so take advantage of it and explore the different cultures and traditions you’ll encounter. Take pride in the fact that you are doing something that many are not able to. Good luck!

We hope you found these tips for moving for travel nurses helpful. Have you moved as a travel nurse and have tips to share with fellow travel nurses? Comment them below.

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

START HERE

Short-term rental must-haves

Close proximity to the hospital, restaurants, and grocery stores

Washer, dryer, and other appliances

Home office

Pet-friendly accommodations

Parking

Short-term rentals for nurses are becoming increasingly common.

Related Posts

3 Qualities of a Great Travel Nurse Recruiter

Travel Nurses Traveling with Family

Tips for a Travel Nurse Interview

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Know the Risks

Check Move Out Requirements

Ask About Going Month to Month

Have Some Money Saved

Plan for a Little Overlap

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts

5 Tips When Searching for Housing with a Dog

A Travel Nurse on Assignment In An RV

Frequently Asked Friday: Tips for Traveling with Pets

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Lighting

Organization

Color

Secret Renovations

Clean

Make it You

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts

Travel Nursing Tips: Achieving Your Career Goals in 2022

10 Top Essentials to Pack for Your Travel Assignment

What Nursing in an Underserved Community can Teach You

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

What a delight

Teacher turned landlord

I get to meet interesting people

The best top-notch guests

I fell in love with a travel nurse

I too am a travel nurse

I get to meet dedicated nurses

My best friend is a travel nurse

Very little housing in my area

Absolutely fantastic tenants

Amazing travel nurses at my home!

Heaven sent

I was a Travel Nurse.

All have been awesome

I decided I needed a roomate

The smartest thing I can do

Great place to find potential renters

It is a win-win

I felt compelled

About Furnished Finder

If you are a new travel nurse or looking into becoming a travel nurse:

Travel Nurse Guide: Step-by-Step (now offered in a PDF Downloadable version!)

Related Posts

Navigating Safety: Assessing Furnished Finder for Travel Nurse Housing

5 Things to Pack for a Fully Furnished Rental

Travel Nurse Housing: Where am I going to Live? Part III

Categories

Hot Jobs

Recent Articles

Leases just protect the landlord, right?

Here are some of the most important terms in a lease:

Lease Term

Notice to Vacate

Early-Out

Costs

Pets

Extras

About Furnished Finder 