What Is Relocation Housing? A Complete Guide for Employees and Families
A new job in a new city is exciting, but the move rarely lines up perfectly with your housing. Your start date is set, yet the house hasn’t closed, the lease hasn’t started, or the rest of the family is still on the way. That’s exactly the gap relocation housing is designed to fill.
In this guide, we’ll explain what relocation housing is, why it matters, what it usually includes, how long it lasts, who pays for it, and how to find furnished temporary housing for employees and families through Mid Term Rental Properties (MTRP).
- Relocation housing is temporary accommodation for employees and families moving to a new city, state, or country for work.
- It is often a furnished apartment, condo, townhome, or house with a kitchen, utilities, Wi-Fi, and laundry, rather than a hotel room.
- Many corporate relocation packages cover temporary housing for roughly 30 to 90 days, and some moves need longer.
- Costs are usually covered through employer-paid accommodation, a temporary housing allowance, or reimbursement, depending on the relocation policy.
- MTRP is a guest allocation company that connects relocating guests and corporate partners with furnished mid-term rental providers across the United States and Canada.
Watch: Relocation Housing Explained in 3 Minutes
Prefer to watch? Our 3-minute explainer walks through what relocation housing is, why employees and families need temporary furnished accommodation, what it includes, how long it lasts, who pays for it, and how to choose between corporate apartments, furnished homes, extended-stay hotels, and short-term rentals.
- 0:00New job, new city: where will you live?
- 0:12What is relocation housing?
- 0:29Why people need temporary housing
- 0:52What relocation housing includes
- 1:16How long relocation housing lasts
- 1:37Who pays for relocation housing?
- 1:58Choosing the right temporary housing
- 2:19Where MTRP comes in
- 2:45Take the next step
What Is Relocation Housing?
Relocation housing refers to temporary accommodation arranged for employees and their families who are moving to a new city, state, or country for work. It provides a comfortable and practical place to stay while they transition from their previous home to a permanent residence.
Unlike traditional hotel accommodations, relocation housing often includes fully furnished apartments, condominiums, townhomes, and houses equipped with everyday essentials. These accommodations allow individuals and families to maintain their daily routines while waiting for a home purchase to close, a new lease to begin, or other relocation arrangements to be completed.
Relocation housing is particularly valuable when an employee needs to report to a new workplace before their permanent living arrangements are finalized.
Mid-Term Rental Properties (MTRP) is a guest allocation company that connects property owners, furnished rental providers, and accommodation partners with individuals and organizations seeking temporary housing.
Through its network of furnished rental listings across the United States and Canada, MTRP helps accommodate employees, relocating families, corporate travelers, and other guests looking for comfortable stays, typically lasting 30 days or longer.
Rather than rushing into a long-term lease or relying on extended hotel stays, relocating employees can explore furnished mid-term rental accommodations that better support their transition.
Why Is Relocation Housing Important?
A job relocation can happen faster than the housing process.
An employee may have a confirmed start date, but their new home might not be ready. Their household belongings may still be in transit, their family may be arriving later, or they may need additional time to find a suitable neighborhood.
Relocation housing provides a temporary home base during this transition.
- For employees, it offers a place to rest, work remotely, prepare meals, and establish a routine while adjusting to a new location.
- For families, it provides additional time to make important decisions without the pressure of immediately committing to a permanent residence.
Instead of choosing a long-term rental without knowing the area, families can temporarily settle into a furnished accommodation, explore nearby neighborhoods, evaluate school districts, and understand their daily commute.
MTRP connects relocating individuals and families with furnished rental providers offering accommodations for mid-term stays. Guests can browse available listings and explore potential housing options based on their preferred location, accommodation requirements, and length of stay.
For organizations coordinating employee relocations, MTRP also provides a way to access a network of furnished accommodation options without having to independently search for every property.
Common Situations That Require Relocation Housing
Relocation housing is useful whenever there is a gap between moving to a new location and securing permanent accommodation. Here are some common situations where temporary furnished housing can make a difference.
1Waiting for a home purchase to close
Employees relocating to another city may need to move before their home purchase is finalized.
Mortgage approvals, inspections, legal documentation, and closing procedures can take time. Temporary housing allows employees and their families to settle into the new area while waiting for their permanent residence to become available.
2Waiting for a new lease to begin
Sometimes, an employee’s reporting date does not align with the start date of their new residential lease.
A furnished apartment or house can provide a comfortable place to stay during the gap, without requiring the employee to commit to another long-term rental agreement.
3Visa or work permit processing
International relocations often involve additional administrative requirements.
Employees may need temporary accommodation while completing immigration documentation, waiting for family members to arrive, or finalizing their long-term housing arrangements. Flexible furnished accommodation can help make this transition more manageable.
4Job relocation or corporate transfers
Companies frequently transfer employees between offices, branches, and business locations.
An employee may need to report to a new workplace immediately, even when their household has not yet completed the move. Corporate relocation housing provides a temporary solution while employees coordinate their personal and professional responsibilities.
5House hunting in an unfamiliar city
Relocating to a new city means making decisions about neighborhoods, schools, transportation, and access to essential services.
Temporary housing gives employees and families the opportunity to experience the area before committing to a permanent residence.
6Family members arriving at different times
Not every relocation involves an entire household moving simultaneously.
One partner may need to begin working immediately while the rest of the family completes school, travel, or household arrangements. A furnished mid-term rental can accommodate the initial arrival and potentially provide a suitable place for the family once everyone has relocated.
What Does Relocation Housing Usually Include?
Relocation housing is designed to provide more than just a place to sleep. Ideally, it should offer the essential amenities needed to maintain a comfortable daily routine. Depending on the property and rental provider, furnished relocation accommodations may include:
- Furniture and household essentials: beds, sofas, dining tables, chairs, and basic furnishings.
- Fully equipped kitchens: appliances, cookware, and essential kitchen items for preparing meals.
- Utilities: electricity, water, heating, and other essential services.
- Internet access: reliable Wi-Fi for remote work, communication, and entertainment.
- Laundry facilities: in-unit washers and dryers or accessible laundry facilities.
- Separate living and sleeping areas: additional space for families and individuals who need more privacy.
- Convenient locations: proximity to workplaces, hospitals, schools, public transportation, and everyday necessities.
For families, these features can make a significant difference. Having access to a kitchen, laundry facilities, and separate living spaces makes it easier to maintain everyday routines while adjusting to a new environment.
At MTRP, guests can explore furnished accommodation listings from participating property owners and rental providers across the United States and Canada. Available amenities, furnishings, rental terms, and property features vary by listing.
How Long Does Relocation Housing Last?
The length of a relocation housing arrangement depends on the employer’s relocation policy, the employee’s circumstances, and the availability of permanent housing.
Many corporate relocation packages provide temporary accommodation for approximately 30 to 90 days. However, some relocations may require longer stays, particularly when international documentation, home purchases, construction delays, or permanent lease arrangements take longer than expected.
Mid-term rentals are particularly useful for these situations because they can accommodate stays lasting 30 days or longer, depending on the property’s minimum rental requirements and availability.
- How long is temporary housing covered?
- Can the accommodation period be extended?
- What happens if the permanent residence is delayed?
- Are there restrictions on the type of accommodation?
- Does the employer have a maximum housing allowance?
- Who is responsible for additional accommodation expenses?
MTRP’s furnished rental network provides potential accommodation options for guests who need more than a traditional hotel stay. Actual rental durations and extensions depend on the individual property and agreed rental terms.
Who Pays for Relocation Housing?
Relocation housing expenses are generally determined by the employer’s relocation policy. Some companies arrange and pay directly for corporate accommodations, while others provide employees with a temporary housing allowance or reimburse approved accommodation expenses. Common arrangements include:
1. Employer-paid accommodation
The company arranges temporary housing and pays the accommodation provider directly. This is common for corporate transfers, executive relocations, and assignments requiring employees to move quickly.
2. Temporary housing allowance
Employees receive a predetermined budget to arrange their own temporary accommodation within the employer’s guidelines.
3. Reimbursement programs
Employees pay for approved accommodation expenses and submit receipts for reimbursement.
A comprehensive relocation package may also include:
- Moving and transportation expenses.
- Household goods shipping and storage.
- Temporary accommodation.
- Travel expenses for employees and family members.
- Lease termination assistance.
- Home sale or home purchase assistance.
- School search and enrollment support.
- Visa and work permit assistance.
For companies coordinating multiple employee relocations, having access to furnished accommodation providers can simplify the process of identifying suitable housing options.
MTRP connects corporate partners and accommodation seekers with furnished rental providers offering mid-term housing options.
As a guest allocation company, MTRP focuses on connecting available furnished properties with accommodation requests. Its role is to help facilitate housing placements rather than manage the employee’s overall relocation process or act as a traditional property management company. HR and relocation teams can learn more on our corporate partnership page.
Types of Temporary Housing for Relocating Employees
Not all temporary accommodations offer the same level of comfort, space, and flexibility. The best option depends on the employee’s length of stay, family size, budget, and personal requirements.
| Accommodation type | Best for | Things to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Corporate apartments | Employees and families needing a furnished, home-like environment | Furnishings, utilities, rental duration, and extension terms |
| Furnished apartments or condos | Individuals and families looking for comfortable living spaces | Kitchen facilities, parking, laundry, and location |
| Furnished houses or townhomes | Families needing additional bedrooms and privacy | Space, neighborhood, parking, and accessibility |
| Extended-stay hotels | Very short stays or immediate arrivals | Limited living space, kitchen access, laundry, and long-stay rates |
| Short-term rentals | Employees needing flexible temporary accommodation | Cancellation policies, deposits, utility costs, and rental restrictions |
| Family or friends | Employees looking for a lower-cost temporary arrangement | Privacy, commute, available space, and length of stay |
For employees and families who need a more residential experience, furnished apartments, condos, and houses can offer an appealing alternative to extended hotel stays.
A home-style rental typically gives you a kitchen, a living area separate from the bedrooms, and room to settle in, which matters more the longer the stay. (Curious how the two compare? Read the benefits of corporate accommodations over hotels.)
MTRP helps guests explore furnished mid-term rental listings that may fit their accommodation needs.
Questions Employees Should Ask Before Accepting Relocation Housing
Before moving, employees should understand exactly what their employer’s temporary housing arrangement covers. Here are some important questions to ask HR or the relocation coordinator:
- How many days or months of temporary housing are covered?
- Is the accommodation fully furnished?
- Are utilities, internet, and laundry included?
- Who books and pays for the accommodation?
- Is there a spending limit or reimbursement allowance?
- Can the stay be extended if permanent housing is delayed?
- Are family members and pets permitted?
- Is the accommodation close to the new workplace?
- Are parking and additional amenities included?
- What expenses are excluded from the housing allowance?
Getting these details in writing can help prevent unexpected expenses and make the relocation process easier to manage.
Practical Tips for Families Moving to a New City
Relocating an entire household requires more planning than simply arranging transportation and finding a place to stay. Here are practical ways to make the transition easier.
1Pack an essentials bag
Keep important documents, medications, chargers, toiletries, clothing, school supplies, and other daily necessities accessible. This prevents unnecessary stress while waiting for household belongings to arrive.
2Confirm school arrangements early
If children are moving with you, research school enrollment requirements, transportation options, and nearby educational facilities before choosing permanent accommodation.
3Evaluate the daily commute
Use your temporary stay to understand traffic conditions, public transportation, and travel times between your accommodation and workplace.
4Keep important records
Save housing agreements, payment receipts, employer approvals, and other relocation-related documentation. These records may be necessary for reimbursement, tax documentation, or future reference.
5Choose accommodation that supports your routine
Look beyond the nightly or monthly rental price. Consider whether the property has a kitchen, reliable internet, laundry facilities, sufficient bedrooms, parking, and convenient access to essential services.
6Allow room for unexpected delays
Home closings, international shipments, visa approvals, and permanent lease arrangements do not always happen according to schedule. Having a reasonable accommodation buffer can help prevent unnecessary pressure when plans change.
How to Find Furnished Relocation Housing With MTRP
Finding suitable temporary accommodation in an unfamiliar city can be challenging, especially when you are working with a fixed relocation schedule.
Mid Term Rental Properties (MTRP) helps simplify the accommodation search by connecting guests and corporate accommodation partners with property owners and furnished rental providers. Through MTRP, individuals, families, and organizations can explore furnished rental listings for mid-term accommodation needs across the United States and Canada.
Here’s how to get started:
-
Identify your accommodation requirements
Determine your preferred city, check-in date, expected length of stay, number of occupants, budget, and essential amenities.
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Browse available furnished rental listings
Visit the MTRP website to explore participating property listings and identify accommodations that may fit your relocation requirements.
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Submit your accommodation request
If you need assistance finding suitable housing, provide your accommodation details through MTRP’s guest accommodation inquiry process.
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Explore potential property matches
MTRP’s Accommodations Specialists can help identify potential property options based on your requirements and available listings.
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Confirm availability and rental arrangements
Once a potential property is identified, the accommodation team coordinates with the property provider to verify availability and discuss the applicable rental arrangements.
Actual placement depends on property availability, guest requirements, and agreed terms.
Whether you are relocating for a new job, transferring to another office, or moving your family to a different city, MTRP can help connect you with furnished mid-term accommodation options. See our guest information page for more on staying with MTRP.
The Bottom Line: Relocation Housing Makes Moving Easier
Relocation housing is more than temporary accommodation. It provides stability during one of life’s biggest transitions.
For employees, it creates a comfortable place to settle while starting a new job. For families, it offers time to explore an unfamiliar city, evaluate neighborhoods, and make informed decisions about permanent housing. For employers, having access to suitable temporary accommodation options can help make employee relocations more organized and manageable.
The right furnished accommodation can make the difference between simply arriving in a new city and actually feeling at home.
Related reading: how mid-term rentals are simplifying global mobility programs and corporate housing and furnished rentals.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is relocation housing?
Relocation housing is temporary accommodation arranged for employees and their families who are moving to a new city, state, or country for work. It is often a fully furnished apartment, condo, townhome, or house that provides a place to stay until a permanent residence is ready.
How long does relocation housing usually last?
Many corporate relocation packages provide temporary accommodation for approximately 30 to 90 days. Some relocations need longer stays when home purchases, international documentation, construction delays, or lease arrangements take more time. Actual durations and extensions depend on the employer’s policy, the property, and the agreed rental terms.
Who pays for relocation housing?
It depends on the employer’s relocation policy. Common arrangements are employer-paid accommodation, where the company pays the provider directly; a temporary housing allowance, where the employee books within a set budget; and reimbursement programs, where the employee pays and submits receipts.
What is usually included in furnished relocation housing?
Depending on the property, furnished relocation housing may include furniture and household essentials, a fully equipped kitchen, utilities, Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, separate living and sleeping areas, and a convenient location. Amenities and rental terms vary by listing.
Is relocation housing better than an extended-stay hotel?
It depends on the stay. Extended-stay hotels can work for very short stays or immediate arrivals, but they often have limited living space, kitchen access, and laundry. Furnished apartments, condos, and houses offer a more residential experience that many employees and families prefer for longer relocations.
Does MTRP manage the whole relocation?
No. MTRP is a guest allocation company that connects accommodation seekers and corporate partners with furnished rental providers. It helps facilitate housing placements, but it does not manage the employee’s overall relocation process or act as a traditional property management company.
How do I find furnished relocation housing with MTRP?
Browse furnished rental listings at MidTermRentalProperties.com, or email stay@midtermrentalproperties.com with your destination, preferred check-in date, length of stay, number of occupants, and accommodation requirements.
Need Furnished Accommodation for Your Next Relocation?
Explore available properties through Mid Term Rental Properties (MTRP).
Whether you are an employee moving for work, a family transitioning to a new city, or an organization arranging temporary housing for your workforce, MTRP can help connect you with furnished rental providers offering mid-term accommodation options.
Need help finding accommodation? Contact our team at stay@midtermrentalproperties.com with your destination, preferred check-in date, length of stay, number of occupants, and accommodation requirements.
Mid Term Rental Properties is a guest allocation company connecting accommodation seekers and corporate partners with furnished rental providers. Property availability, rental terms, and final placement are subject to confirmation.