Some travel nurses rent a standard apartment or house independently, using their housing stipend. Others live in hotels or motels. Many travel nurse agencies have an internal housing department that finds a furnished rental, usually with flexible leases. This is the most popular option for most travel nurses.
Convenience
A variety of housing options are available to travel nurses. Some are as simple as extended-stay hotels. For longer assignments, apartments or condos are available through various websites and services – but they usually require a rental agent’s approval process. Many agencies offer their housing, either through their facilities or through private landlords who work with them.
The advantage of agency housing is that it eliminates the hassle of finding a new place and arranging utilities, plus it’s often more affordable than other options. Housing for travel nurses also offers convenience because it’s generally located near the hospital where the travel nurse is assigned.
This makes it easier to get to and from work. Depending on individual preferences, some travel nurses may be comfortable sharing housing with roommates, while others prefer their own space. Some also want the convenience of a washer and dryer in their rental.
Flexibility
Travel nurses can often use their tax-free housing stipend for any housing that meets their needs. This may include short-term rentals, extended-stay hotels/motels, Airbnbs, etc. This allows them to self-select what is best for them and their family during each assignment. Many of these options are furnished, which can help minimize the amount they have to transport with them.
They are also typically located near hospitals and public transportation. This makes them attractive to travelers who prefer a safe, clean rental just a short distance from work. Other amenities that make a property desirable include pet-friendly and onsite laundry facilities. Travel nurses are usually pet owners, so providing this can open up a larger pool of potential tenants.
In addition, having onsite laundry can be very helpful for those who do not want to waste time and money on frequent trips to laundromats after a long shift. This feature also helps eliminate nurses’ need to pay extra for utilities or rent a separate washer/dryer unit.
Security
Whether they’re agency-placed or self-placed, travel nurses seek a secure environment. They need a safe and comfortable place to unwind after shifts, but they also want affordable housing. They need to know their housing stipend and when to expect to pay rent so they can budget accordingly.
For this reason, travel nurses typically opt for furnished rentals equipped with all the basics, like a washer and dryer, microwave, stove, fridge, bed linens and towels, and toiletries. It’s also important for them to be close to the hospital and public transportation so they can get around without spending too much time on the road.
Since travel nurses have gone through a background check, they make great tenants and are reliable. Additionally, their short contracts make them a good choice for investors seeking a good ROI.
Value
With their housing stipends, travel nurses can choose the best living situation. For example, they can rent a fully furnished house a short distance from the hospital or an apartment in a desirable neighborhood. They can also access various amenities, including laundry, cleaning services, and fitness centers. Vacation rental websites have been a huge boon to travel nurses who want to live in the local area without signing a long-term lease.
It’s important to understand the needs of this population before renting your property. Travel nurses prefer furnished properties, so they don’t have to haul their furniture and belongings around the country. Ensure your rental includes all the comforts of home, like wifi and cable.
Travel nurses who use agency-provided housing have the added benefit of working with a team of experts. For instance, their Onward recruiter will help them find the right assignments and troubleshoot any issues. They’ll also have access to a clinical manager who can answer questions about their work and credentials.
Comfort
Most travel nurse agencies have relationships with housing providers who provide furnished accommodations to their healthcare professionals. The best providers will have a track record of quality, positive reviews and testimonials from other travel nurses, and experience catering to this niche group’s unique needs.
In addition, these housing providers will often provide amenities and services that will help travelers to get settled quickly and easily. For example, some will have onsite laundry facilities, which can make the transition between assignments much smoother. In addition, some will have kitchens that can save money on food costs and help travelers feel at home. Travel nurses tend to have short-term contracts, which can be less stressful for landlords than long-term leases.
Moreover, many will have undergone background checks, which can make it easier for landlords to screen out unruly tenants. Finally, most of these tenants will be able to pay the monthly rent, which can help them to avoid the extra expenses and hassles associated with breaking a lease or moving to another property.
