We’ve checked in with our housing specialists and asked what tips they’re saying on repeat to our travel medical professionals. From starting your search early to being a good tenant, we’ve got their feedback for you.
Travel Nurse Housing Tips We Say on Repeat
Start Your Search Early
As you start your search, think about what amenities you’d like in your home and neighborhood.
If you’re a city person who likes to stop at a coffee shop, browse a bookstore, or go to the gym, make those part of your search. It helps you know areas where you would like to work so that we can find contracts in those places. You can also start your search before you have a contract, just don’t sign anything or travel anywhere until your recruiter says it’s ok.
In our experience, housing moves fast, so it benefits you to be proactive. You will find more and better options.
Furnished Finder Is a Go-To, But Not the Only Option
There can be times when housing is hard to find. Often, that’s because you haven’t searched in the right places. Furnished Finder is a great resource, but it isn’t the only option. Facebook groups for travel nurses, Airbnb for longer stays, and travel nurse housing forums are also where our travelers find appropriate, safe housing. Extended stay hotels may offer medical professional rates or long-term stay rates, too.
As you’re searching, consider what you need to make temporary housing feel like home. Music, photos, a Bluetooth speaker, and cozy blankets and pajamas are all recommendations.
Always Ask About What’s Included
Fully furnished may mean you get a bed, coffee table, and couch, but no linens or cookware. Ask what is included before signing a lease.
- Are utilities included?
- Do you need to pay for parking?
- Where do you park?
- Is Wi-Fi available, and is it included?
Request a complete list of what is included to know what to expect and what you need to pack.
Never Pay a Deposit Without a Lease or Video Tour
Scams can happen. Protect yourself by doing video walkthroughs and getting a written lease. Never wire money or pay via apps without verification. In our article Avoiding Scams in Travel Healthcare, we tell readers to trust their instincts. If a landlord is asking for Venmo payment without a tour, that’s a red flag.
Don’t sign a lease before you’ve signed a travel contract. We don’t want you to pay for housing and then have the work fall through.
Communicate with prospective landlords through phone calls, texts, and email. Someone using WhatsApp could be a scammer. And avoid Craigslist, as it is popular for scammers.
Be safe and make sure you know what you’re signing. If you’re not getting the information you need, find a different place.
Be Clear About the Contract End Date (and Flexibility)
Ensure your lease has flexible terms or a precise end date that aligns with your assignment. Extensions happen; ask if your landlord can accommodate that. Ideally, only look for rentals that offer month-to-month leases, so you have flexibility built into the lease.
Read more in our article Housing Advice for Travel Nurses.
Location Is Everything – Do Your Homework
Make use of the information on the internet. It’s easier than ever to look at maps, view apartments, and get video tours of housing, even if you’re doing it from afar. Start by mapping your facility and then finding the safest neighborhoods. No matter your schedule, we want you to be aware of your surroundings, feel safe, and have conveniences like a nearby grocery store and gym.
Join local Facebook groups and ask current travelers for insights about their experiences in neighborhoods. That will give you a better idea of where to search.
Have a Backup Plan Just in Case
The housing tip we say on repeat is to have a backup plan just in case something goes wrong. Keep a short list of other options in the area, even temporary ones. A week in a hotel is better than scrambling at the last minute.
Know the IRS Rules if You’re Taking a Housing Stipend
If you’re receiving a housing stipend instead of agency-placed housing, understand the IRS rules regarding duplicating expenses and maintaining a tax home. A tax home is the state you claim as your home state. This matters, along with compliance, during tax season. Depending on the laws and tax home, it could mean multiple tax forms in various states or a more straightforward process.
Short-Term Leases Often Cost More
Budgeting is important. Month-to-month or 13-week leases are convenient, but you will pay a premium, so you need to budget. Try to negotiate if you’re staying longer or rebooking.
Remember Your Pets
Another reason to start searching for housing early is if you have pets. If you’re traveling with a furry friend, you may have limited options depending on the location. Find out what the extra pet fees are and plan for them. We offer more tips in our article Travel Nursing with Your Dog.
Be a Great Tenant
We don’t like that we have to say this, but please be a great tenant. Leave your housing clean, communicate respectfully with management, and follow through on lease agreements. The travel nurse community is small, and word gets around quicker than you think. Building good relationships helps you and the community.
Thank you for being part of our travel nurse community!
If you’re looking for a new opportunity, check our job board and contact us today.
Find Your Next Travel Healthcare Assignment with Our Job Board!
Are you on the hunt for your next travel healthcare gig? Look no further than our job board! Click here to explore all our current opportunities. We have opportunities for all travel healthcare professionals.
Discover the Perfect Housing for Your Next Assignment
Need somewhere to stay on your next travel healthcare assignment? We’ve got you covered. Check out our housing page to find your ideal home away from home. Click here to start your search.
