At this point, your recruiter has probably already explained to you that the company’s housing department can set you up with company-paid housing. The type of housing will depend on the length of the contract. For contracts eight weeks or less in duration, this will consist of an Extended Stay Hotel. Hotels in this category include but are not limited to:
· Extended Stay America $ (use promo code MTVLR to save 50% on stays >30 days - sponsored by The Traveling Traveler)
· Suburban Extended Stay Hotels $
· Value Place Extended Stay Hotels $
· Candlewood Suites $$
· Towneplace Suites $$
· Residence Inn by Marriott $$$
If a contract is longer than eight weeks in duration, then the company-paid housing would consist of corporate
housing. This generally includes a standard furniture package, utilities, and internet. Housewares may or may not be included with this housing option. As with anything else, there are pros and cons when it comes to taking the company-paid housing:
Pros:
Convenience – Everything is done for you. You don’t have to worry about tracking down a place to stay, potentially furnishing it, and set up utilities/internet. Everything you need is in one place (laundry, gym, pool, etc)
Extended Stay hotels offer a weekly maid service. Never worry about making your bed or washing your towels. Many also offer a free breakfast every morning!
No need to worry about coming up with money up front to secure an apartment or Airbnb. This may be a good option for the new traveler who doesn’t have a lot of cash on hand
Cons:
Company-paid housing is EXPENSIVE and will eat up most, if not all, of your housing stipend, substantially decreasing your weekly take home pay.
Extended stay hotels lack the privacy of an apartment and can become quite cramped after some time
