Tips for Finding Short Term Housing

You've just gotten word you have a conference in Sacramento, or a meeting in Vacaville, or a seminar in Stockton. It's time to pack your bags and your briefcase and head out of town. If you work for a company that arranges short term housing for you when you travel, consider yourself lucky. For everyone else who has to make their own housing arrangements for work travel, trying to figure out where to start can be a daunting task. On the one hand, you want to stay somewhere with a modicum of comfort in a relatively safe environment. On the other hand, you also want to stay within your budget (or at least within your travel stipend). Sometimes these two things can seemingly be at odds with one another. The good news is that with some savvy searching, finding a great place that you can actually afford can be fairly easy. A place that will feel like home only without the crushing mortgage payments is just a few clicks away. Read on for tips and tricks on finding comfortable yet affordable short term housing.

• Google it. Doing an internet search is today's version of "let your fingers do the walking." However, the secret to ninja-like search skills is all in the keyword choices. Enter keywords such as, "

Suite Accommodations," "corporate housing" or "short term apartment rentals" plus the city or metropolitan area you'll be staying in. You'll get a list of various accommodations available in your desired area. However, before committing, make sure to do your homework. Look for trust seals on accommodation websites such as Corporate Housing Providers Association or Better Business Bureau membership.

• Get social. There's nothing like getting a word of mouth recommendation from a friend, family member or colleague. Ask around and see if anyone you know has stayed in the particular area before and if so, where. Ask for recommendations. You never know who might have a sister, uncle or business associate with a rental property available or who might know of a hidden gem you might not hear about otherwise.
• Consider a vacation... rental. Just because you're traveling for work doesn't mean you can't stay in a vacation rental. If your work takes you to a major metropolitan area that happens to be a big draw for tourists, a vacation rental can be an ideal choice as well as an extremely cost-effective one - especially if you happen to be traveling during a time of year when tourist visits are at an ebb. Vacation rentals are usually quite comfortable and offer a unique travel experience.
• Watch out for scams. There are many websites that offer free listings of available accommodations. Unfortunately, some agencies aggregate these free listings and then charge for them. You can find great listings on your own for free, so don't risk spending money on a possible scam.
• Consider a sublet. This is another attractive option if you're staying in or near a major metropolitan area. People who frequently travel themselves often want their apartment inhabited while they are away. If you need to be near public transportation, expect to pay a little more. However, if you'll have access to a car, you can stay a little farther out from the center of town and enjoy lower rental rates.

When deciding which option to use, the cost for the accommodations themselves is only one factor. Distance from where you'll be working, the cost for public transportation or rental car if necessary as well as the cost of food and groceries should also figure in.

About the Author: Emma A. Johnson is a business travel expert and contributing writer who enjoys helping businesspeople and recreational travelers alike find exceptional lodging at an affordable price.

Online Article Marketing Specialist.