Ways to Find Temporary Housing When Moving Abroad

• Short-Term Rentals

Short-term rentals are perfect for travelers or expatriates who need temporary housing for a few weeks or months. These rentals typically offer furnished apartments, which are more cost-effective and comfortable compared to hotels. Websites like Airbnb, Vrbo, and Booking.com provide platforms to find various short-term rental options worldwide. These platforms allow you to filter properties based on price, location, and amenities. The benefits of short-term rentals include flexibility, privacy, and the ability to live in a local neighborhood. However, the downside is that they can be expensive in high-demand areas and may come with hidden fees like cleaning charges or security deposits.

Estimated pricing: The cost of short-term rentals can range from $50 to $200 per night depending on the location, amenities, and season. In popular cities, rates tend to be higher, especially during peak tourist seasons.

• Serviced Apartments

Serviced apartments are another popular choice for temporary housing. These accommodations provide the comforts of a home with hotel-like services such as housekeeping, laundry, and sometimes even meal options. They are ideal for those who prefer a more homely environment with added convenience. Serviced apartments are usually fully furnished and include utilities, internet, and TV services in the rental price. While they are more expensive than regular short-term rentals, they offer a high level of comfort and flexibility. The main con is that they are often located in urban centers, making them less affordable for longer stays.

Estimated pricing: Depending on the city, serviced apartments can cost anywhere between $70 and $300 per night. Long-term discounts are sometimes available for stays over a month.

• Hostels and Shared Housing

If you are traveling on a budget or looking for temporary housing for a short period, hostels and shared housing might be a viable option. Hostels are generally affordable and provide communal living spaces. Although privacy might be limited, the cost savings are significant, and it’s a great way to meet other travelers or expats. Shared housing through platforms like Couchsurfing or subletting is another option. However, the major drawback is the lack of personal space and sometimes unreliable living conditions.

Estimated pricing: Hostel beds typically cost between $15 and $50 per night, depending on the city and facilities offered. Shared housing can vary greatly in price, from $300 to $1,000 per month, depending on the arrangement.

• Corporate Housing

Corporate housing is usually provided by employers for expatriates or business travelers. These are fully furnished apartments or houses rented for temporary stays, typically for professionals relocating for work. The key benefit of corporate housing is convenience—it often comes with all necessary amenities and services, so you don’t need to worry about setting up utilities. However, if your company doesn’t cover the costs, corporate housing can be quite expensive.

Estimated pricing: Corporate housing can range from $1,500 to $5,000 per month, depending on the city and size of the accommodation.

What Documents Are Required for Short-Term Rental?

When securing a short-term rental, you’ll need to provide several important documents to finalize the agreement. These documents ensure both parties are protected and legally bound by the rental terms. The typical documents you’ll need include:

1. Proof of Identity
   You’ll need a government-issued ID, such as a passport or driver’s license, to verify your identity. Some landlords may also request a visa or work permit, especially in countries where renting to foreigners is restricted.
2. Proof of Income
   Most landlords require proof of income to ensure you can afford the rent. This could be a recent bank statement, pay stubs, or an employment contract. If you’re a student or self-employed, a bank statement showing sufficient funds may suffice.
3. Rental Agreement
   A written rental agreement is essential for short-term rentals. This contract outlines the terms and conditions of the rental, including the rent amount, duration of stay, security deposit, and house rules. Ensure that you carefully review the contract before signing.
4. Security Deposit
   In most cases, a security deposit is required, which is refundable at the end of your stay if no damage is found in the property. This deposit usually amounts to one or two months’ rent.
5. References
   Some landlords might ask for references from previous landlords or employers to verify your character and reliability as a tenant.

Average Rent in Canada, USA, and the UK

When moving abroad, it’s crucial to have a general idea of rental prices in your destination country to budget accordingly. Here is a breakdown of average rental costs for temporary housing in Canada, the USA, and the UK:

• Canada
  In Canada, rental prices vary significantly depending on the city and province. Major cities like Toronto and Vancouver have higher rents compared to smaller cities.

1. Toronto: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around CAD $2,400 per month.
2. Vancouver: Expect to pay about CAD $2,500 for a one-bedroom apartment in a prime location.
3. Montreal: Rents are more affordable, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around CAD $1,600 per month.

• USA
  Rental prices in the USA also differ based on location, with cities like New York, San Francisco, and Los Angeles being among the most expensive.

1. New York City: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is around $3,500 per month.
2. San Francisco: You can expect to pay about $3,700 for a similar apartment in downtown areas.
3. Austin: This growing tech city offers more affordable housing, with rents averaging $1,700 per month for a one-bedroom apartment.

• UK
  In the UK, London dominates the rental market with significantly higher prices than other cities.

1. London: The average rent for a one-bedroom apartment in the city center is about £2,000 per month.
2. Manchester: More affordable than London, with one-bedroom apartments averaging around £1,000 per month.
3. Edinburgh: In Scotland’s capital, expect to pay around £1,200 for a one-bedroom apartment.

Conclusion

Securing temporary housing when moving abroad can be a challenge, but understanding your options, costs, and legal requirements can make the process easier. From short-term rentals and serviced apartments to hostels and corporate housing, there’s a wide range of accommodations to suit different needs and budgets. It’s crucial to factor in the pros and cons of each option, such as flexibility, cost, and amenities, to choose the best fit for your stay. Additionally, being prepared with the necessary documents for rental agreements will ensure a smoother transition.

By researching average rental costs in your destination country, whether it’s Canada, the USA, or the UK, you’ll be better equipped to make informed decisions. Ultimately, finding the right temporary housing sets the foundation for a successful start in your new country, allowing you to focus on the exciting opportunities that await.