​If you are moving your family to a new area because of a job transfer, you may be feeling overwhelmed. Don’t stress! First ask your employer if the company offers relocation services that will cover the costs of getting you situated. Alternatively, find out if funds can be provided for a short-term, furnished apartment or corporate housing, tailored to the needs of those relocating for business.

Then ask yourself the following questions:

• Do I have to purchase a new home right away?
• Do I know the area well enough to purchase a home in my ideal neighborhood?
• Have I consulted a real estate expert, one who really knows the schools and the neighborhoods?
• Have I determined the difference in the cost of living?
• Am I prepared to move all my furniture?
• Am I ready to start paying a mortgage and taxes on a new home?

If the answer to many of these questions is “no,” consider a short-term, furnished rental. Although they tend to be more expensive than unfurnished apartments, move-in ready, fully-furnished rentals with flexible lease terms are ideal for those who are waiting to purchase a home. Furthermore, if the new job or location does not work out, you are not stuck with a mortgage or breaking a lease and losing your deposit.

In addition, short-term rental properties, such as those at Hosted Quarters, very often have the following taken care of: utility management, updated kitchen appliances, complete tabletop and serveware, refrigerator stocking upon move-in, newspaper service, lawn care, snow removal, and even maid service upon request. These services and amenities can go a long way in helping you adjust to a new life in a new location.

​For corporate executives on temporary assignment, homeowners who are undergoing renovations, or people whose lives are in transition and in need of a short-term rental, furnished apartments are ideal.

​Imagine not having to move large pieces of furniture up a flight of stairs or worry about scuffing floors or chipping the paint. Almost everything you'll need is already there in a furnished apartment. Just bring whatever makes you feel comfortable and move right in!

​No need to arrange for movers and coordinate moving dates. Simply pick a day and time that’s convenient for you and arrive to a completely furnished home complete with amenities!

​Furnished apartments usually offer shorter lease terms, set around your own personal schedule.

​Those traveling across the country or internationally for a certain period of time won't have to move, purchase, or rent large pieces of furniture. Furnished apartments provide the perfect solution.

Of course, there are some limitations when moving into a fully furnished space. First, you don’t have the ability to choose your décor or bring any large items into the apartment. Second, since the furnishings belong to the landlord, security deposits and rent may be a little higher to compensate for any wear and tear. Third, furnished apartments are less common than unfurnished, so you may not have a wide variety of locations available to you.

​Luckily, near large cities like New York, there are many options available for short-term renters. Hosted Quarters, for example, offers furnished apartments in the towns of Maplewood, Summit, and Short Hills, New Jersey--all conveniently close to NYC via mid-town direct trains.

Home remodeling can be exhausting and can also take a toll on both your mental health and your wallet. So you may wonder if it is sensible to relocate your spouse, children and pets into temporary housing while your home turns into a construction zone. Or should you just designate a safe space in your house and live there throughout the duration of the project?

​Before making this decision, below are some things to consider:

​First, determine whether or not you can allocate money toward renting a short-term residence or furnished apartment. Ask about flexible lease terms, as unforeseen problems often arise during renovations, and you may want to be sure that the landlord will be able to accommodate your needs.

​If you move out, you may want to make an effort to visit your property regularly in order to observe how your contractor is progressing.

​If possible, choose a convenient location near your current residence. Remember to forward your mail and suspend cable and internet service.

​Although you may ask your contractors to tidy up at the end of each shift, active construction sites can be dangerous, and it could be a full-time job just keeping animals and little ones away from the chaos.

Whether you are a corporate executive on temporary assignment, in-between the sale and purchase of a new home, or just displaced during an extensive renovation, you may find yourself, at some point in time, in need of temporary housing. Furnished apartments are easy, affordable, and can provide a stress-free solution for those whose lives are in transition.

Equipped with all the essentials, furnished apartments give clients most of the things they need to move right in…. So how can you make a furnished apartment your own?
​
Below are a few ideas that have worked for our clients:

​Take a few photos that brighten your day – family memories, a pretty scene, or something else you love.

Seasonal blooms, potted plants, or a vase of freshly cut flowers spruce up a space and enliven your surroundings.

​Blankets and several sets of linens are often provided in furnished, short-term rentals; however, bringing your own pillows, blankets or a special throw can give additional comfort and make you feel like the apartment is yours.

​A few familiar books or magazines will help you unwind and relax in your temporary surroundings.

​Whether you practice yoga, regularly meditate, or occasionally exercise, setting aside a small space for wellness is something many of us do in our homes. Why not do it in your temporary apartment?

​Fresh linen? Something fruity? A light floral scent? Pick what you like the best!

​Kitchens in furnished apartments are normally equipped with dishes, flatware, utensils, cookware and glasses. However, for those who love to cook, bring whatever special items you can’t live without.

​Have a go-to mug for coffee or tea? Fridge magnets that show your own flavor and personality? Other small souvenirs or knick-knacks that you enjoy? Bring them with you! Having these items will be small reminders of home.